Product photography from a home studio

Local makers, small online retailers, restaurants, and sellers on platforms like Etsy and Shopify.

Price per product photo or per batch, with extra for lifestyle shots, editing or quick turnaround. Regular clients can bring repeat work.

• Lighting and composition for small objects
• Photo editing and colour accuracy
• Organizing and tracking client items
• Clear communication about shot lists

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence or has zoning rules for client visits
• Check your home insurance covers business equipment and client items, and consider liability cover
• Care with valuable or fragile items, so agree in writing who is responsible for damage
• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on the camera, lighting, backdrops and editing software you choose. A small set-up with a tripod and simple lights is the usual starting point.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $3,000, depending on how many clients you win and how many products you shoot. Local makers and online sellers are typical customers to build up gradually.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence or has zoning rules for client visits. Check your home insurance covers business equipment and client items, agree in writing who is responsible for damage, and register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.