It’s very common to see a link to an online donation box or another sort of wish list on a camgirl’s profile. How does that work? Why might it be worth your while to opt for this sort of complementary income?
Crowdfunding for everything
Crowdfunding has become a big deal in a number of areas (for funding a professional project, getting help with an expensive medical bill, or even to pay for your next holiday or the latest iPhone!). It’s flourishing, and nobody is bothered by the concept: asking people you don’t know to help you fund something, each at their own level and sometimes in return for something (as is the case for crowdfunding sites, for example). Beyond those big expenses and occasions, these funds are often used to buy presents for friends or family, for example. It’s very popular. To the point that it could now be a way to build up a small amount of capital outside of your work. But by “capital” we definitely mean “a small amount of money”, don’t expect to finance buying your apartment this way!
For camgirls, this constitutes an income in parallel to their work – and especially, it’s a way to gain money autonomously. Indeed, no platform or production company will take a percentage from you. But it’s not quite that simple, because these services were quickly used by camgirls or porn actresses and had to react to the moral questions their customers were asking. So, the sites banned financing adult activities.
The camgirls have therefore become rather discreet when offering camming services in exchange. And also use them a lot to help out in case of unexpected expenses. This is what Carmina did in 2016 when she asked her fans to crowdfund of her braces. Or Lola Hoop who had to have an ankle operation and had a large bill. In these cases, the camgirl fan community was notably responsive to these campaigns and participated wholeheartedly. Even leaving concerned comments and encouragements about the operation.
Why does it work?
It’s tempting to wonder why these people who don’t know us would be willing to give us money for nothing in return. There are several reasons for this. The first is to get closer to the camgirl. Giving her money lets them feel like they’re closer to her. The fan would often receive a personalised message in exchange and gets noticed. This bond is created all the more easily because people often have the impression that a camgirl could very well be their next-door neighbour. She seems accessible, so they think they can get close to her easily. The fact that this plays on feelings is also very important. The fan wants to help the camgirl he considers almost like a friend and will happily come to her rescue.
Crowdfunding: be aware of the legalities
You can create crowdfunding campaigns to pay off medical bills. Or other expenses. But using them to sell live shows or other adult activities is forbidden. We also recommend that you look at the platform’s policies in detail to make sure that your online tip jar is legal. It would be a shame to have the donations given to you on that platform taken away. Stay discreet about your work. Especially when it really has nothing to do with the subject of your crowdfunding campaign. Be equally aware of fans who might say too much in the comments and give hints to what you do. Don’t use photos that are too suggestive either, so you don’t attract the wrath of the platform.
Finally, know that you have to declare the money received in the online donation box in the same way that you would declare income from your work.
Another alternative: wish lists
As well as an online donation box, camgirls can get little presents sent to them through a site like Amazon. This is done by creating a list of products that you’d like to have and making that list public. That way, any fan can make you happy by buying you one of the products from the list. This could be material for your shows (lighting, wireless keyboard…) or accessories (sex toys, lingerie…) or even little presents for you personally. So why not treat yourself?