The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Photographers

Starting a photography side hustle in New Zealand is a fantastic way to combine creativity with earning extra income. Whether you’re shooting weddings in Auckland, portraits in Wellington, or landscapes in Queenstown, this guide shares practical tips to help photographers attract local clients while managing full-time work.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Your Local Market

Different regions in NZ have varied photography demands-urban centres like Auckland thrive on event and commercial photography while smaller towns might favour family portraits or outdoor shoots.

Weirdly enough, offering nature and landscape sessions can set photographers apart in tourist-heavy areas like Rotorua or Taupo.

Knowing your local demand guides your marketing and service focus effectively.

2. Create a Profile on Yada

Yada connects photographers with local clients without lead or success fees, perfect for side hustlers building a presence.

The rating system rewards good reviews with higher visibility, helping you gain consistent work alongside your main job.

Its easy-to-use, mobile-friendly interface streamlines client communication and job management on the go.

3. Offer Flexible Photography Packages

Offering a variety of packages, such as quick sessions, event coverage, or full-day shoots, appeals to a broad client base and accommodates your schedule.

For example, weekend mini-sessions for families in Christchurch have become popular side gig options for local photographers.

Flexibility helps manage workloads and attract repeat clients.

4. List on NZ Photography Directories

Besides Yada, platforms like Snappr NZ, TradeMe Services, and regional Facebook groups offer exposure to local audiences actively seeking photographers.

Detailing your services, pricing, and showcasing a portfolio builds client trust and boosts inquiries.

Being accessible across platforms increases your chance of steady bookings.

5. Collect and Share Client Testimonials

Ask happy clients for testimonials and permission to share images to build credibility online.

A Wellington photographer’s side hustle grew significantly after sharing heartfelt client feedback with session photos on social media and Yada profiles.

Authentic testimonials foster trust and encourage new clients to book.

6. Network with Local Vendors

Building relationships with event planners, makeup artists, and venues in your area can lead to referrals and joint projects.

A Tauranga photographer partnered with wedding planners and florists, boosting her side gig bookings through referrals.

Networking creates a supportive local ecosystem for sustained side hustle growth.

7. Build a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Website

A basic website created with platforms like Wix or Google Sites quickly establishes professionalism and allows easy client contact.

Ensure your site showcases your portfolio, client testimonials, and service details optimized for mobile viewing.

Regular updates with new work keep your site fresh and relevant.

8. Share Photography Tips and Stories

Posting simple tips on photography, behind-the-scenes shots, or client success stories engages your audience and showcases your expertise.

Weirdly enough, genuine content often attracts more interest than polished ads on NZ social platforms.

This builds goodwill and keeps you visible to potential clients.

9. Manage Your Time Effectively

Use tools like Yada's chat and scheduling features or apps like Trello to organize sessions and client communication efficiently.

Clear availability and realistic scheduling prevent burnout and help you deliver quality across multiple commitments.

Effective time management protects both your day job and your side hustle.

10. Stay Current with Photography Trends

Keep up with new techniques, editing software, and equipment to offer fresh, high-quality services in the competitive NZ market.

Attend workshops or local photography group meetups in cities like Auckland or Wellington for continued learning and networking.

Growing skills ensures long-term side hustle success and client satisfaction.