This underrated photography skill actually earns you money

If you want to turn photography into a real, full-time income and not just a side hustle, there’s one skill you can’t ignore: networking. I know; I’m terrible at it, too. But Laura BC comes to the rescue! In her latest video, she shares why networking is essential for getting clients, building your reputation, and ultimately earning more with your camera. She breaks down how to use it to grow your career, even if you’re starting from scratch in a new city or country.

Social media and emails help, but networking is a game-changer

Laura explains that there are multiple ways to attract clients, including social media and cold emails. Social media is a powerful (and free) tool that helps photographers get discovered. They let you showcase your work, share behind-the-scenes moments, and connect with potential clients. On the minus side, I’d add, is that social media is oversaturated. Plus, I think most of us are still looking for a place to get away from Instagram and share our work without it being smothered by Reels.

Another method that worked for Laura in the early days was sending emails. Lots of emails! She admits that at first, no one responded because she didn’t know how to write the right kind of email. Over time, she developed a mix of friendliness, professionalism, and personalization that started getting results. However, if you’re not god with written words, it takes time and lots of hard work to get there.

So, we get to networking. For Laura, it was a major turning point in her career.

Networking doesn’t have to be intimidating

A lot of photographers, especially introverts, shy away from networking because they think it means going to big business events or awkwardly introducing themselves to strangers. I get a mild anxiety attack just thinking about it. :) However, Laura says that’s not how it has to be. In fact, the best networking happens naturally—when you’re out doing things you enjoy.

Laura shares a personal story from her time in London. She loves music and used to go out dancing with friends. She wasn’t thinking about networking, but just by being in those social settings, she met DJs, artists, and promoters. And when they asked what she did, she confidently said, “I’m a photographer.” That simple introduction led to paid gigs because people always need photos—for their business, their brand, or their social media.

Laura emphasizes that you should never introduce yourself as a “beginner photographer” or mention a different job first. If you take photos, you are a photographer. Period. Even if you’re still learning, there’s no need to downplay your skills.

Bring your camera—it’s an instant conversation starter

If you’re not comfortable starting conversations, let your camera do the work for you. Laura suggests always carrying it when you leave the house. Whether you’re at a coffee shop, the gym, or walking around your city, people will notice. They’ll ask what kind of camera you have, what you shoot, and before you know it, you’ll be talking about your photography. It happened to me just two days ago at a protest in my hometown, and I met and photographed lots of interesting people. I’m not chasing to make money from my photos, but if you do – I’m sure this will work!

Laura shares that she had people approach her just because they saw her using a camera or a drone. These spontaneous conversations often lead to new opportunities, and they require zero effort on your part beyond simply being visible.

The key takeaway is that you don’t need to force networking, especially if you’re shy or a little socially awkward. Just be open, be present, and don’t be afraid to tell people you’re a photographer. Be yourself, and opportunities will come your way if you put yourself in social situations where people can get to know you. So, next time you go out, whether it’s for a drink with friends, a yoga class, or a local event, bring your camera and be ready to say, “I’m a photographer.” You never know who you’ll meet!

[The Most Underrated Photography Skill That Actually Pays the Bills! | Laura BC]