Professional Photography
Headshots, promotional photos, and brand photography for marketing your content business.
Tax Form
Schedule C, Line 27a
Estimated Savings
$200-2,000/year
Income Level
How It Works
Professional photography for business purposes is fully deductible for self-employed creators. This includes headshots for your channel/website, promotional photos, brand photography sessions, and photos for press kits. Related expenses like hair, makeup, and wardrobe specifically for the shoot may also qualify.
IRS Rules & Requirements
- Must be self-employed to deduct (W-2 employees cannot)
- Photos must be for business use (website, marketing, press)
- Session fees, prints, and digital files are all deductible
- Related costs (hair, makeup for shoot) can also qualify
- Job seekers cannot deduct photos only for job hunting
Real Examples
Professional headshot session at $500 = fully deductible
Brand photography package at $1,500 = fully deductible
Hair and makeup for professional shoot at $150 = fully deductible
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- W-2 employees trying to deduct headshots (not allowed since 2017)
- Deducting personal photos as business expenses
- Not keeping receipts for photography sessions
- Forgetting related expenses (styling, props) are also deductible
Pro Tip
Get photos taken annually to keep your marketing materials fresh. Each session is a new deductible expense, and updated photos often improve sponsorship and collaboration opportunities.
Related Deductions
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