Creative
Tax deductions for Photographers
A reference to SARS-allowable deductions commonly discussed by photographers, videographers, and camera operators with a trade in South Africa. Eligibility still depends on whether you have a trade or only a salary.
Common tax deductions for Photographers in South Africa
For Photographers, the lines that actually differ from the next profession are camera bodies, lenses, lighting, and audio — depreciate (in 47), do not claim 100% in year one unless a small-item rule applies, editing software and cloud storage used in the trade, studio rent or an exclusive-use home studio (23(b) tests). Each one still has to be incurred in the production of income. A salary-only year is gated by section 23(m) before any of them count.
If this year is salary only, read section 23(m) — what still counts before treating the list below as claims.
Important: This is general guidance based on the Income Tax Act and SARS Interpretation Notes. It is not professional tax advice. Deductibility depends on your individual circumstances. Consult a registered tax practitioner for complex situations. All SARS section references are based on current legislation and may be subject to change.
OFO and IRP5 codes for Photographers
Occupation codes 3431, 3521 on the ITR12, and the source codes that usually show on a certificate for photographer work.
OFO Occupation Code (ITR12)
Select one of these when SARS eFiling asks for your occupation:
- 3431Photographer
- 3521Broadcasting and Audio-Visual Technician
IRP5 / IT3(a) Source Codes
Common income source codes on your tax certificate:
- 3616Independent Contractor
- 3601Salary / Wages (in-house / staff photographer)
OFO codes are from the Organising Framework for Occupations used by SARS on the ITR12 return. IRP5 source codes appear on the tax certificate issued by your employer or contractor. Codes are based on the current SARS eFiling system and may be updated by SARS periodically.
Review statements for Photographer work
Upload bank statements. Taxzi flags lines that may qualify under SARS rules. Mixed shops stay out until you say what they were. You confirm every claim. This is guidance — not a filed return.
Works with FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, Nedbank, Capitec, Investec and Discovery Bank PDF statements.
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