Tax Write-Offs to Save Money as a Photographer

As a photographer, you likely have many business expenses that can add up quickly. The good news is that many of these expenses may be tax deductible, allowing you to lower your taxable income and keep more money in your pocket. Campkins Cameras wants to help photographers take advantage of all potential tax write-offs when filing their taxes.

Equipment Expenses

Some of the most common tax deductions for photographers are equipment purchases like:

1. Cameras and lenses – These are essential tools for any photographer. As you upgrade your gear, save your receipts.
2. Accessories include memory cards, batteries, lighting, straps and camera bags.
3. Your computer and editing software – If you use a computer specifically for your photography business, you can deduct it along with any editing programs.

Operating Expenses

There are also many ongoing operating expenses you can deduct:

4. Your website and web hosting – Domain registration, hosting fees, themes, plugins, and stock photos for your site.
5. Props for photo sessions – Any special props, backdrops, lighting, or set decorations.
6. Mileage for travel to sessions – Track your mileage for client shoots for deductions.
7. Printing, cards and office supplies for your business promotions and needs.
8. Online courses and personal development books to improve your photography skills.

Additional Expenses

Some other potential tax deductions include:

9. A percentage of auto expenses and insurance if you use the vehicle for business.
10. Travel expenses like flights, hotels, and meals if you book a client session at your travel destination.
11. The cost of workshops, seminars, or photography events that help expand your skills.
12. Accounting fees to help prepare your business taxes.
13. Photography lessons and mentoring sessions to keep developing your skills can also be written off.
14. A percentage of client gifts, especially if they display your business name/logo.
15. Anything you buy for personal use but also use for business purposes.

Be sure to save all receipts and track expenses related to operating your photography business. Deduct every allowable expense on your taxes to maximize savings. Reinvest those savings into new equipment, accessories & knowledge that make you an even better photographer. Contact Campkins Cameras if you need any assistance building the perfect photography toolkit while taking advantage of tax deductions and savings as we also will try to help with the best price on photography equipment.