Home camera and lens repair bench

Hobbyist and film photographers, collectors, resellers, and people with a family camera they want working again.

A flat fee or quoted price per repair or service, plus parts. Customers mail gear in, so you can serve people well beyond your zip code.

• Patient, precise hand work
• Reading repair manuals and diagnosing faults
• Clear communication with customers about quotes and timelines

• Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit, and whether your HOA or lease allows it
• General liability insurance, and cover for customers' gear while it is in your care (ask about bailee or garage keepers coverage)
• Damage risk on valuable or sentimental cameras: set clear terms, get quotes approved in writing, and decline jobs beyond your skill
• Parts can be hard to find for some models, so be upfront about what you can't fix

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on tools, parts and workspace setup. Monthly revenue is estimated at roughly $300 to $3,000, depending on how many repairs you take on and what you charge.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit, and whether your HOA or lease allows it. Also check general liability insurance and cover for customers' gear in your care, such as bailee or garage keepers coverage.

Typically patient, precise hand work, reading repair manuals and diagnosing faults, and clear communication about quotes and timelines. Set clear terms, get quotes approved in writing and decline jobs beyond your skill. Plan on roughly 8 hours a week at minimum.