Step 1: Choose a Blockchain and NFT Marketplace

The first step is deciding which blockchain you want to mint NFTs on, along with a compatible NFT marketplace to list them.

The most popular options:

• Ethereum – Widely adopted, but higher gas fees
• Polygon – Lower fees than Ethereum as a Layer 2 solution
• Solana – Fast and inexpensive transactions, but more centralized

As for NFT marketplaces, platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Magic Eden all support Ethereum NFTs. Other marketplaces like Solanart on Solana or Unique One on Polygon allow minting and listing NFTs native to those chains.

Step 2: Set Up a Crypto Wallet

To mint and transact NFTs, you’ll need a cryptocurrency wallet. Options like MetaMask, Phantom, and Solflare allow you to securely store crypto assets and NFTs while interacting with blockchain apps and marketplaces.

For Ethereum, go with MetaMask. For Solana, Phantom is recommended. These browser plugin wallets give you a wallet address for transacting on the blockchain and signing transactions.

Be sure to set a strong password and securely back up your seed phrase which can restore access if you ever lose access to the wallet.

Step 3: Get Some Cryptocurrency

You’ll need some crypto in your wallet to pay gas fees when minting and listing NFTs. For Ethereum and Polygon, this means ETH or MATIC. For Solana you’ll need SOL tokens.

Exchanges like Coinbase, Binance, FTX and others like Kraken and Coinmama, allow you to purchase cryptocurrency with fiat currency like USD. You can then withdraw it into your connected wallet.

Step 4: Upload and Prepare Your Artwork

NFT file formats are limited to JPG, PNG, GIF, SVG, MP4, WEBM, MP3, WAV, and GLB. Ensure your photo is formatted properly.

For single edition NFTs, master quality lossless files are recommended. For larger pack drops, creating versions at multiple tiers allows collectors to choose based on budget.

Give each artwork file a descriptive name when saving locally to your computer. Organizing into folders is also wise for batches of NFTs you may mint together.

Step 5: Connect Your Wallet to the Marketplace

Head to your preferred NFT marketplace site and connect your wallet by clicking the “Connect Wallet” button. This allows the marketplace to read your address and push transactions.

If prompted, grant access for the site to view and transact NFTs in your account. This doesn’t give them control of your actual wallet or assets.

Step 6: Create Your NFTs

Now you’re ready to actually mint! The “Create” or “Add NFT” page will prompt you to upload your photo file and enter details like name, description, royalty percentage, number of editions, blockchain, etc.

Include relevant details on editions, signing, location, equipment, editing, camera settings, etc. Crafting a story around the photo in the description builds value.

Royalties ensure you get paid a percentage every time it’s resold on that marketplace. 10-20% is common.

When ready, click to mint and you’ll be prompted by your wallet to confirm and sign the transaction.

Step 7: List Them for Sale

Freshly minted, your NFT won’t be visible or available for sale just yet. You need to manually list it on the marketplace, which will initiate another transaction.

Decide on a listing price denominated in the cryptocurrency of that chain. You can choose either an auction with a set time period or a fixed “Buy Now” price.

Consider current market rates for similar works when pricing. A unique 1/1 piece likely warrants a premium over limited editions. Promotion also builds demand.

Step 8: Market Your NFTs

Now comes the fun but equally important work of getting the word out! Without visibility, no one will be able to discover, view or buy your listed NFT.

Leverage social media platforms like Twitter to promote your newly minted works. Engage with the NFT community, collectors, and enthusiasts in your niche.

Collaborations with other artists, giveaways, community building, and partnerships also expand your reach. Don’t simply “mint and ditch” – get out there and tell your story!

Step 9: Fund Your Wallet and Withdraw

Once your NFT sells, the proceeds will need to be withdrawn to your personal cryptocurrency wallet before converting back into fiat currency.

Ensure you have sufficient Ethereum in your wallet to cover transaction gas fees. Exchanges normally handle withdrawals via crypto transactions.

From there, you can convert crypto into fiat currency and cash out into your bank account. Each exchange offers its own instructions on how to withdraw and convert balances.

Congratulations – you minted, sold, and withdrew your first NFT sale proceeds! The world of web3 photography awaits.