Side Hustler’s Spotlight
Jay Soriano– Maui-based portrait photographer specializing in family photos, couples and elopements.
How you got started? What education does it require or is suggested?
A degree in photography isn’t required, I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Administration from Washington State University and I got started in photography as a mere elective there. Though much of my education was actually developed online, via other successful photographers on YouTube.
What’s the start-up cost?
Professional photography is a very competitive field because there’s a low barrier to entry, essentially all you need to get started is a digital camera – many of which can be purchased for under $1000.
There may be additional costs depending on the niche you want to enter, for example, a real estate photographer may need a tripod and ultra-wide angle lens. For a portrait photographer, I would recommend a lens suitable for portraiture, eg. 85mm f/1.8
What gear did you start out with?
I started at the beginning of the mirror-less revolution, with the Panasonic GF1.
How long did it take you to go from part time to full-time or how long it will take you?
I don’t necessarily work “full-time” per-se. Photography is my passion, and if it’s something I had to do for 40-hours a week, I wouldn’t love it as I do now.
What gear is needed to begin?
I’d recommend starting with an entry-level camera, and developing your skills as a photographer. From there, your next purchase should be a lens that works in the niche you plan to go in. For example, if you want to be a portrait photographer, an 85mm f/1.8 lens would be the perfect lens to start with.
How much money did you earn in the first year?
I started my photography business as a side hustle, my first target was to make an extra $1000/mo, I would estimate that I made $10000 the first year.
What tips do you have for new photographer side hustlers?
Focus on developing your skills, thus increasing your hourly rate.
What financial advice do you have for someone who wants to start a side hustle as a photographer?
A lot of aspiring photographers make the mistake of investing in thousands of dollars of gear at the start… Then I ultimately see a lot of photographers selling their gear on the Facebook Marketplace.
Work on your skills as a photographer, use the income from shoots to invest into your business.
What gear are you currently using?
I’m currently using a Sony A7IV among various other cameras, my gear is listed on my photography blog, 1kCreatives.
What resources do you use to promote your business and attract clients?
My main sources of clients are Instagram and Google.