"Viral Side Hustle: 27-Year-Old's Secret to $20K a Month"

In the digital age, earning a substantial income through unconventional means has become increasingly accessible. Jade, a 27-year-old college student and the face behind @captured.by.jade on TikTok, has taken advantage of this trend. She has turned her side hustle into a thriving business, earning up to $20,000 a month by selling stock images using her iPhone. This article explores her secret to success and the lessons entrepreneurs can learn from her story.



Selling Stock Images Using an iPhone
Jade's journey began when she realized the potential of her unorganized camera roll. She discovered that businesses were seeking organic-looking content, even just iPhone photos for marketing or advertising. In a viral TikTok video, Jade shared her method for making quick money by selling personal photos to businesses in need of stock photography. The video, which has garnered over 1.1 million views, features Jade stating, "Your unorganized camera roll can help you make thousands and thousands of dollars in passive income."

How Much Can You Make Selling Stock Images?
In a follow-up video, Jade provided a detailed account of her submission process and earnings from stock photography. She revealed that her most popular photo, a picturesque scene from Monterey, California, has earned her over $26,000 in revenue and been downloaded more than 4,000 times. Jade credited her success to smart keywording and tagging, which made her photos easily discoverable.



Expanding Her Income
To further grow her earnings, Jade has launched a step-by-step guide and a series of videos teaching her followers how to profit from stock photography. She spends around 20 minutes each day on keywording, tagging, and minor image adjustments before submitting her photos. Jade's stock photo collection mainly consists of travel and landscape images, but she also regularly lists pictures in other popular genres.

Inspiring Aspiring Side Hustlers
Jade's success has inspired others to follow in her footsteps. Her followers on TikTok have expressed their excitement and enthusiasm for her method, with some sharing their own experiences of earning money from their camera rolls. However, not all commenters are convinced, with some expressing skepticism about the potential earnings and the impact of AI-generated images on the stock photography industry.

How to Start Your Own Stock Photo Side Hustle
For those inspired by Jade's success and looking to start their own stock photo side hustle, here are some steps to follow:
1. Choose the Right Platform: Select reputable stock photo websites such as Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock, and Alamy.
2. Take High-Quality Photos: Use your smartphone to capture clear, high-resolution images. Focus on popular themes like travel, nature, business, and lifestyle.
3. Edit Your Photos: Use editing apps to enhance your photos, ensuring they meet the quality standards of stock photo platforms.
4. Keyword and Tag Your Photos: Add relevant keywords and tags to make your photos easily searchable. Use specific and descriptive terms to attract potential buyers.
5. Upload and Promote: Regularly upload new photos to your chosen platforms and promote your portfolio through social media and personal websites.

In conclusion, Jade's story serves as a testament to the potential of unconventional side hustles in the digital age. By leveraging the power of social media and understanding market trends, entrepreneurs can turn their passions into profitable businesses. The key to success lies in adaptability, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.