How to Start Earning as a Nature Photographer in Illinois?

Discover how to start earning as a nature photographer in Illinois with essential tips on mastering your craft and exploring local landscapes.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably passionate about the outdoors and love taking photos, especially of real estate.

Whether you’ve been at it for a while or are just starting out, you might be asking yourself, “How do I actually make money from this?”

I totally get it; I’ve been there too.

What I want to share with you is a simple step-by-step guide that I wish I had when I first got into nature and real estate photography in Illinois.

So, grab your camera, and let’s get started.

Step 1: Get Really Good at What You Do

Before you can start making money, you need to really understand the basics—and then go beyond that. Nature photography isn’t just about snapping a picture of a tree; it’s about knowing how lighting works, understanding the environment and animal behaviors, and finding your own style as an artist.

Start Small and Get Creative

When you’re just starting out, don’t stress about making everything perfect. Just try things out! Take pictures of the same spot at different times of day or during different seasons. Illinois has such varied landscapes and wildlife, making it a great place to practice. In the fall, head to the Shawnee National Forest to see all those amazing colors, or enjoy the misty mornings over Lake Michigan. Think of these locations as your practice areas to sharpen your skills.

Must-Have Gear for Nature Photography

You don’t need to buy the most expensive camera out there to start earning money, but investing in a good DSLR or mirrorless camera and a couple of solid lenses is definitely worth it. When I began, I saved up for a good zoom lens and a sturdy tripod, which opened up a lot of new options for me. Also, since Illinois weather can be unpredictable, make sure you think about getting some protective gear for your camera.

Step 2: Getting Acquainted with Illinois’ Landscape

Now’s the time to show off what you know about Illinois! Not every nature photographer gets to work in a state with such a wide variety of ecosystems like prairies, woodlands, wetlands, rivers, and urban nature parks.

Must-See Locations and Hidden Gems

You’ve got popular spots like Starved Rock State Park and the Garden of the Gods, which are incredible, but sometimes a less busy place can be even more special. Take Kankakee River State Park, for example—it has gorgeous river views and wildlife that’s not used to people, allowing for more natural behavior.

Seasonal Photography Opportunities

If you’re into nature photography in Illinois, you really need to embrace the seasons. Winter can offer breathtaking scenes just like summer does. Don’t be shy about snapping photos in the snow, ice, or rain—those elements can really spice up your portfolio! And come spring, the parks come alive with migrating birds and colorful wildflowers.

Step 3: Build Your Portfolio

Now that you have the skills and locations, it’s time to create a portfolio that showcases your unique style.

Create a Consistent Look and Feel

Think about the themes that resonate with you. Maybe you love how the light looks on the prairies at dawn, or you’re drawn to the details of plants and animals. Keeping a consistent style helps potential clients see your unique viewpoint.

Start Sharing Your Work

You don’t need a fancy website right away. Social media, especially Instagram, is a perfect place to start building a following, sharing your work, and connecting with others who share your interests. For a local vibe, use hashtags that relate to Illinois or Chicago, like #IllinoisNaturePhotography or #ChicagolandWildlife. That’s how people nearby will find you.

Step 4: Turning Your Nature Photography into Income

Now we’re getting to the exciting part—making money! If you’re into nature photography in Illinois, there are plenty of ways to earn a living, and it really helps to have different income streams. Here’s how I—and quite a few others—have done it.

Selling Prints and Licensing Images

One of the easiest ways to start making money is by selling prints. A lot of photographers are doing well by selling online on sites like Etsy or through their own websites. You can also find success at local markets and galleries, especially around Chicago. Another option is to license your photos; this can lead to ongoing income from travel companies, magazines, or educational publishers looking for Illinois-focused images.

Partnering with Local Brands and Tourism Boards

Think about local businesses that fit your style, like outdoor brands, tourism boards, or even restaurants that have an Illinois theme. Teaming up with local companies to help them with marketing can be a great way to earn money and enjoy what you do. Just send them a proposal showing how your unique photography could be a good match for their brand.

Hosting Workshops and Photo Walks

As you get more experience, consider sharing your skills. Organizing a nature photography workshop or a photo walk can be a great way to earn some extra cash while helping others. Illinois has a strong photography community that’s eager to learn from someone local. Popular spots like the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Morton Arboretum are fantastic for photography classes and events.

Step 5: Network Within the Illinois Photography Community

Networking is crucial for building a successful nature photography career, even though many people overlook it. It’s important to connect with other photographers, artists, and potential clients.

Join Local Photography Groups

You should check out some great groups like the Chicago Area Camera Club Association or local meetups you can find on Facebook or Meetup.com. These groups often organize events and competitions, offering valuable support and inspiration.

Collaborate with Other Artists and Photographers

Working together with other artists can really expand your reach and open up new possibilities. For example, consider teaming up with a travel writer or a local conservationist who might need a photographer for their project. I personally collaborated with a local author, which led to my first major publication and helped me connect with new clients.

Step 6: Keep Challenging Yourself and Growing

This isn’t just another step; it’s a lifelong journey. To really succeed in nature photography, you have to keep learning and pushing your limits. The more you get out there, the more you’ll see there’s still so much left to capture.

Join Workshops and Focus on Learning

Whether you’re attending a more advanced workshop or diving into new techniques, staying updated is key to keeping your work fresh and your skills sharp. There are tons of photography clubs in Illinois that offer workshops, plus plenty of online courses to help you improve.

Think Like a Business

When you treat your photography as a business, you need to track expenses, set your prices, and build good relationships with clients. It might not be as exciting as hiking in the woods, but knowing the basics of business will definitely set you apart from those who just do it as a hobby.

Key Takeaways

• If you’re looking to make money as a nature photographer in Illinois, remember it’s not about quick wins. It’s a fulfilling journey that takes dedication, passion, and a willingness to learn.
• And here’s the thing: if you really love what you do, it won’t feel like hard work.
• Each early morning shoot, every hike, and even the photos that don’t turn out—these experiences contribute to your story.
• Take things one step at a time. Building a photography career is as much about the journey as it is about reaching your goals.
• Illinois has so much to explore, and so do you.

So, get out there, start taking photos, and turn your passion into a profitable venture.

Extra Resources:

1. Illinois Department of Natural Resources: If you’re looking for detailed info about hunting, planning, or licensing in Illinois, be sure to check out the IDNR website.
2. Chicago Botanic Garden: You can discover the beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden where you’ll find 27 stunning gardens and seasonal events to enjoy.
3. Photography Meetups in Illinois: For those into photography, you should look at the Chicago Photography Community for local meetups and great resources to learn and share.