You technically can start around $1,000 if you really need to. That would look like a used beginner camera kit. Something like a Canon Rebel type setup where the body and lens are all in one and you are just learning the basics. It is doable, especially if you already have a good creative eye and you are willing to hustle, learn from YouTube and TikTok, and take on some early shoots for free to build a portfolio. It will not be the most professional setup, but you can start.
That said, I would not recommend planning on only spending that. Realistically, you are looking at $2,000 to $4,000 to get going the right way.
Here is why:
Camera body and lens:
This is where almost all the money goes. My very first professional setup was around $2,500. I wanted to come in strong because I already knew I had the skill and I did not want to half do it. If someone is brand new, you do not have to get the same thing I did, but a solid setup usually lands in that range if you want to feel confident showing up to paid shoots.
External hard drive:
Around $100. You need to back up your photos. That is one of the first things my mentor drilled into me. Back everything up. Always.
SD cards:
Basic necessity. You will need multiple. Also, you should always have two cameras eventually because technology fails. That part does not have to be day one but it is coming.
Editing software:
Most people start with Lightroom. It is very straightforward and there is so much free information out there. You do not need to buy a course. I did not take a course to learn. I learned through a mentor and free online content.
Optional presets:
A lot of new photographers buy presets from creators to help them get started with editing. Totally optional but helpful. Think $100 to $500 depending on who you buy from.
So that is where the $1k to $4k range comes from.
You can absolutely hustle your way in at $1k if you have to. People do it. But if you want to show up confidently, start landing real clients faster, and feel like you are not held back by your gear, $2k to $4k is a much more realistic range.
And honestly, the money part is just one piece. The real leverage in photography is consistency, putting yourself out there socially, responding fast to inquiries, and being great with people. Gear matters, but the person holding the camera matters more.
Hope that helps anyone trying to get into this.