For beginners, the most realistic path is usually to build experience first rather than expect photo sales to quickly pay for gear. Selling images—especially through microstock—can be difficult, because buyers often want very specific subjects and many photographers earn little unless they have a large, targeted catalog.

Good ways to start include:

• Create your own “assignments” and shoot them seriously to build a portfolio.
• Offer to photograph for family, friends, churches, or local community groups to gain experience.
• Check regional magazines and local publications, which often have recurring photo needs and submission guidelines.
• Try local, in-person sales: restaurants, cafés, craft shows, and festivals sometimes let artists display and sell prints.
• If you’re interested in stock, study what publishers and agencies actively request; success usually depends on producing images with clear commercial or editorial use.

In short: treat selling as a separate business effort, not easy passive income. Start by building a strong portfolio, taking small local opportunities, and learning what kinds of images are actually in demand.