When I first started my business, I was working photography part-time while balancing another job. If that’s you right now, I get it, you’re hustling on the weekends, editing late at night, and wondering how in the world you’re supposed to handle your taxes as a side hustler. Taxes for part-time photographers can feel overwhelming, but with the right tips, you can set yourself up for success (and a lot less stress at tax season).
As a wedding photographer turned educator, I’ve seen too many creatives ignore this side of business until it’s too late. That’s why I put together my latest video: “Tax Tips for Part-Time Photographers.”
Let me walk you through some of the highlights.
Why Part-Time Doesn’t Mean “Tax-Free”
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is: “I’m only part-time, so I don’t need to worry about taxes yet.” Unfortunately, the IRS doesn’t see it that way. Whether you shoot 3 sessions a year or 30, you’re still responsible for reporting that income. Even if photography isn’t your full-time gig, it’s still a business in their eyes.
By treating your side hustle like a business from the beginning, you’ll not only avoid tax penalties but also build strong financial habits that will serve you as you grow.
Tracking Your Income and Expenses
When it comes to taxes for part-time photographers, keeping records is everything. You’ll want to keep track of:
- Every payment you receive (even cash or Venmo)
- Business-related expenses like gear, editing software, or mileage
- Any business education or workshops you attend
Even if photography isn’t your main source of income, these deductions can save you money come tax time.
Don’t Forget About Self-Employment Tax
This one surprises a lot of side hustlers. As a part-time photographer, you’re technically self-employed, which means you’re responsible for both income tax and self-employment tax. If you’ve only ever had a W-2 job before, this can be a shock. But planning ahead (and setting aside a percentage of each payment you receive) can keep you from scrambling at tax time.
My Best Advice for Side Hustlers
Here’s my biggest piece of advice: don’t wait until tax season to figure this out. Start now by creating a simple system to track your income, categorize your expenses, and set aside money for taxes. You’ll thank yourself later.
And if you want an easy way to stay organized, I created a Tax Preparation Checklist designed for photographers. It covers both personal and business tax documentation so you know exactly what to gather before you file, plus it includes a tax calendar with important deadlines.
Watch the Video
If you want more tips (and a little encouragement for your part-time hustle), check out my video below. I share the exact steps I wish I had followed when I was in your shoes.
Taxes for part-time photographers don’t have to be overwhelming. You just need the right tools and a plan in place. You’ve got this!
XOXO ~ Heather Marie
And don’t forget to grab my Tax Preparation Checklist. It includes everything you need to gather before you file plus a tax calendar to keep you ahead of every major deadline.
Let’s make this the year you take control of your business finances!
Let’s Prep for Tax Season – Together
Keep more of what you make inside of your business with these 5 key deductions for photographers. I’m sharing all inside of my free class — Maximizing Your Tax Deductions as a Photographer!
Make tracking your numbers easy with my Tax Prep Spreadsheet and ensure that tax season is a breeze.
Transform your passion into a thriving business and unlock success for your photography business with my free guide to setting goals for the first year of your photography business.
Mastering your business taxes starts with understanding the different tax categories. Grab my free tax category guide to take the first step towards stress-free taxes today.
Want taxes to suck less? Learn how to correctly prepare your taxes for your accountant with the Photographer Tax Course – and say hello to a confident and calm tax season!
Don’t know what you don’t know? You’re just 90 minutes from a custom tax prep system with my 1:1 Tax Prep Mentoring sessions!
More Blog Posts for Photographers:
Sales Tax Myths That Could Cost Photographers
How to Register, Collect, and Pay Sales Tax
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