How To Make Money as an Artist
By KBR
Although many think of an artist as just being a painter, there are many mediums you can use to create art. If you are thinking of pursuing an artistic career, know that the possibilities are endless. Being an artist takes a lot of work and dedication, but it is a beautiful career filled with expression and connecting with others. One of the most important things to consider when becoming an Artis, no matter what it is you choose, you need to know how to make money. If you are considering becoming a professional artist, consider these creative careers and ways to earn income:
Photography by Gorodenkoff | Shutterstock
Photographer
Photography is a very diverse medium to create in because there are various directions you could go with your photography. From wildlife photography to fashion photography, the possibilities never end. You could make money capturing portraits, weddings, fine art photography, and commercial photography. If you are into fine art photography, selling prints, submitting to galleries, and investing time in social media is a great way to go.
Designer
If you have an interest in drawing, sketching, or painting, try becoming a professional designer! You could offer paintings, sketches, graphic designs, digital paintings and more. To earn income, try offering commissions, originals, prints, clothing with your art on them, and more. You could also make money off the internet with social media, starting a blog, or making content for YouTube.
Multimedia Artist
Have a love for experimentation when creating? Try becoming a multimedia artist. Some ways to make money this way include making collages, selling originals, selling prints, and art installations. You could also try selling products with your visual art on them or create a presence on social media for additional income.
Photography by Ekaterina Jurkova | Shutterstock
Model
Have a unique look? Try becoming a professional model, if that’s something you think you would love! You could try modeling for runway, commercial work, videos, boudoir, and more. Social Media and working with brands for sponsored posts is a great way to bring in extra money as a model, plus you can sometimes get freebies! You can also get signed with an agency where you can ensure more bookings and more income.
Musician
Making an income from music can be challenging, but with hard work it can be incredibly rewarding. You can make money by performing at shows, from streams, selling albums, merchandise, licensing, and more. The most important thing to consider is your audience, you need people to know who you are and what kind of music you make to be interested in buying or getting booked a show.
Videographer
Similar to photography, the scope of videography can widely vary. You can capture video for weddings, television, films, commercials, music videos, and more. Drone videography is also gaining popularity and can be very profitable! Practice your video making skills with businesses that need help with content creation, which can be a great way for you to improve your skills and get your videos out there for more to see.
Writer
If you have skills in writing, try becoming a professional writer. You can write content for blogs, magazines, zines, and more. You could also try writing poetry or publishing a novel. Writing is also a useful tip for marketing if you are looking for additional income as a writer.
Fashion Designer
Have a passion for fashion? Consider pursuing a career as a fashion designer. You could start a fashion line, design wedding attire, and offer custom designs. If you have lots of experience, you could also teach classes.
Photography by UfaBizPhoto | Shutterstock
Hair & Makeup Artist
If you have a love for beauty, try hair styling, becoming a makeup artist, or both! As a HMUA, you could offer haircuts, styling, makeup for events, photo and video shoots, and more. You could also create beauty content for YouTube and social media.
Being an artist consists of endless creativity and endless possibilities to make money!
