Here’s a straightforward guide on how to make money with AI images, demonstrating ways to capitalize on AI-generated visuals. In previous discussions, we’ve looked at AI artists like DallE and Ai-DA, emphasizing their contribution to unique collaborative works, such as LG’s AI art tool Tilda’s partnership with designer YounHee Park at New York Fashion Week this year.
AI currently bridges the gap between technical prowess and creativity, enabling individuals without advanced artistic skills to showcase their ideas. For those eager to explore the AI art landscape and learn how to make money with AI images, the following tips will prove useful.
We strongly recommend that you check out our guide on how to take advantage of AI in today’s passive income economy.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Art Creation
To begin, creating your AI art is a must before considering monetization. Utilize free AI creation tools such as Midjourney, BigSleep, WOMBO Dream, and Starry AI if you’re not keen on paying for an AI art generator subscription.
Your artwork should appeal to potential buyers. Popular art forms that sell include illustrations, patterns, textures, and website backdrops. After crafting several pieces, compile them into a portfolio on a platform of your choice, be it your own website or community sites for artists like ArtStation or DeviantArt. This step is crucial for establishing a basis for future sales and provides potential buyers a preview of your work.
Step 2: Art Sales
There are multiple avenues to explore how to make money with AI images through art sales.
Stock Images:
A comprehensive portfolio is essential for selling on stock image platforms such as Shutterstock. Additionally, uploading your work to free image sites like Freepik, Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay can enhance your earning potential. Shutterstock, having partnered with Open AI for direct access to Dall-E 2, stands out as a prime starting point. On these platforms, earnings average at $0.02 per image monthly, with total earnings depending on the volume of sales. Notably, Getty Images has prohibited AI-generated content sales, and similar restrictions are present on other platforms, so verifying each site’s policy is advised.
Merchandising Your Art:
Print-on-demand is a lucrative method for how to make money with AI images. Simply upload your designs to platforms like TeeSpring and RedBubble, which then print your art on various products, from mugs and t-shirts to posters and notebooks. Sales typically yield profits ranging from $US2 to $US10 per item. Selecting the most sellable designs requires time, a critical consideration before diving into print-on-demand.
Selling AI Art Prompts:
Beyond selling AI-generated visuals, monetizing your expertise in AI art creation has become viable with the emergence of PromptBase in the AI art market. This platform markets detailed text descriptions necessary for AI generators to produce specific outcomes. Such descriptions go beyond basic terms, offering in-depth narratives for more customized results. These prompts can sell for between US$2-US$5, with PromptBase taking a 20% commission, while copyright remains with the seller, securing a stream of income from prompt sales.
While the strategies outlined above present current opportunities for how to make money with AI images, the evolving market could change. An influx of high-quality AI images may eventually saturate the market, reducing the demand for paid creations. However, the market currently offers a fertile ground for experimenting with AI art and establishing a source of passive income.
8 Strategies on How to Make Money With AI Images
The evolution of artificial intelligence is carving out new avenues for creative entrepreneurs eager to explore the world of AI-generated art. With the field blossoming, there’s a plethora of ways to generate income from AI art, making it an opportune moment to dive into these profitable waters.
1. Sell Digital Art and Print-on-Demand Products
Harness AI to craft unique digital artworks or printed items that you can market online or offline. Utilize AI creation tools, like Jasper Art, to design your pieces, and platforms such as Etsy for sales. Alternatively, establish a personal online store for direct sales.
Consider partnering with print services for cost-effective production, selling your items at local events or holiday markets. For instance, I have successfully sold digital triathlon-themed art prints through my Etsy store, offering them at affordable prices for customers to print at their convenience.
Example: Triathlon-themed AI Art Prints
2. Publish AI-Generated Coloring Books on KDP
Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offers a platform for distributing both digital and physical books on Amazon. Leverage AI tools to create engaging coloring book pages, compile them, and publish via KDP. Amazon manages printing and shipping, simplifying the process.
Example: AI-Generated Idris Elba Coloring Page
3. Market Your Art as Stock Photos
Shutterstock’s collaboration with Open AI to integrate AI-generated images into their database is a notable development. While some platforms may restrict AI image sales, others offer opportunities, provided you adhere to their guidelines. Selling stock photos, whether in batches or as exclusive sets, can cater to a wide audience, including content creators and general consumers.
4. Create and Publish a Niche Children’s Book
AI can assist in illustrating children’s books within your area of expertise. Whether it’s a story about sportsmanship from a runner’s perspective or educational content from a dietitian, AI-generated illustrations can bring your narrative to life. Platforms like KDP enable you to publish your work in print-on-demand formats.
Example: “Jimmy’s Jungle Adventure”
5. Offer Bespoke AI Art Services
With the novelty of AI art, custom artwork is in demand for personal or gift purposes. Setting up an online order form or opening a dedicated Etsy shop for custom requests can attract clients. Collaborations with local businesses for industry-related art pieces can also be lucrative.
6. Expand into Print-on-Demand Merchandise
Utilize services like Printful, Printify, or Redbubble to offer your AI art on a diverse range of products, from t-shirts to mugs. This approach allows for selling through your website or marketplaces like Etsy, catering to various consumer preferences.
Example: Cheeseburger-Themed Running Leggings
7. Venture into the NFT Market
The unique nature of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) presents an opportunity for AI artists to sell their work in the digital asset market. Though the NFT space may become crowded, it remains a potential avenue for revenue.
8. Educate Others Through Speaking Engagements
Sharing your expertise on AI art or AI writing tools can open up numerous speaking opportunities. From conferences to webinars, educating others about AI art can be rewarding, both financially and professionally.
Example: Talk on “Artificial Intelligence for Nutrition Entrepreneurs”
This comprehensive guide outlines eight innovative strategies for monetizing AI-generated art, showcasing the versatility and potential of AI in the creative and entrepreneurial realms.
How to Make Money With AI Images
Monetizing AI-generated images can be a lucrative endeavor with the right strategies. Here are ten tips to help you make money with AI images:
- Sell Digital Art and Prints: Offer your AI images as digital downloads or print-on-demand products on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or your own website.
- Create Stock Photos: Contribute your AI-generated images to stock photo websites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, where they can be purchased for commercial use.
- Publish Illustrated Books: Use your AI images to illustrate books, such as children’s stories or art books, and self-publish them on platforms like Amazon KDP.
- Develop Merchandise: Apply your AI images to a variety of merchandise, such as t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases, using print-on-demand services like Printful or Redbubble.
- Offer Custom Art Services: Provide bespoke AI art creation services for clients seeking unique artwork for personal or business purposes.
- License Your Images: Allow businesses or individuals to license your AI images for use in their marketing materials, websites, or other projects.
- Create NFTs: Convert your AI images into Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and sell them on blockchain platforms like OpenSea or Rarible.
- Teach AI Art Creation: Share your knowledge by teaching online courses, conducting workshops, or creating tutorial content on AI image generation.
- Participate in Art Exhibitions: Showcase your AI images in art exhibitions or galleries, either physically or virtually, to attract buyers and collectors.
- Collaborate with Brands: Partner with brands or designers to create AI-generated visuals for fashion, advertising campaigns, or product design.
By exploring these ten tips, you can unlock various opportunities to make money with AI images, tapping into the growing demand for innovative and creative AI-generated art.
We strongly recommend that you check out our guide on how to take advantage of AI in today’s passive income economy.
