You can arrange to get a list of all of the riders and their emails. Use a service such as Eventpix or Photostock Plus to post the images, so that your subjects can order copies. It's that simple; you must be organized, effective, not shy and have a willingness to make things happen.

Pet pix
For domestic pet photography, similar principles apply. You can make money as a pet photographer but you must first find customers. Church groups, schools, and non-profits are a great place to market your photography.

You can put together a "photo day" for people to bring their beloved dogs, ferrets and other critters. Work out a package for the families. Give the church a percentage of the orders, and keep the rest for yourself. Again... posting the images online will boost sales for you.

Animal photography skills
Let's talk about skills. Taking animal photos is very tricky. Animals do not behave. Wild animals, in particular provide just a fleeting chance that you need to be ready for. Learn how to interact with animals in order to let them trust you and be cooperative. Most people who pursue animal photography as a passion are already animal lovers, by nature.

Research times that the animal of your interest eats, sleeps and plays. Feeding times are a great photo opp because you can get all of them together. Come to know their habitat. A certain bird, for example may be territorial and not stray far from the nest

The photo in Figure A was taken of a wild seal and was a great find.

FIGURE A


Waiting for the right moment is the key to creating outstanding animal photos. Photo by Anne Violette Roll over picture for a larger image.

I was getting ready for a boat ride and he was sunning himself in a dinghy boat. I'm not sure how he managed to hoist his hefty body into the small boat without sinking, but nevertheless I happened to have my camera ready and climbed into the next boat over.

This seal was very comfortable with me coming into his space. Proceed with caution. I did not want to disturb his nap, but he looked up just in time for me to snap a few great shots looking right at the camera. He almost appears to be smiling.

Whatever you do, don't try to touch the animals; but try to get as close as possible. If you are able to purchase a telephoto lens, it will be the best way to get shots of faces and small details. Use fill flash outside whenever possible without disturbing the animals. The pop of light will bring out an even tone of their fur and the whites of their eyes.

Stock photography
A great avenue for you to market your photography is in the realm of stock images. Stock photography is a photograph which you have previously taken. It can be used for advertising, textbooks for schools, magazine articles, book publications, calendars, cards or for corporate needs worldwide.

The best part about it is that you can sell a photograph that you took a few years ago and make residual income on it depending on the deal you negotiate. Animal photography is highly marketable, especially if you have an image that is unique, romantic or cute.

Check out an agency, such as OzImages. Do research and you will find other companies online that will market your work for you, while you're busy taking more pictures!

If you have a passion for animals and a newfound passion for photography, then you can find a way to intermix the two to make a great living. Once you have learned this invaluable talent, there is a world of possibilities to find a niche as an animal photographer.