How to Start a Blog in 2026: The Beginner’s Guide to Blogging

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If you’re searching for how to start a blog for your small business or personal brand, you’re in the right place. This is the ultimate guide for beginners walking you through how to start a blog and make money. Not the hobby-blog version that gathers dust, but a strategic, on-brand blog that grows your business, brings in clients, income from your traffic and finally gets you showing up on Google.

In this guide you’ll learn exactly how to start a blog step by step, from choosing your niche and setting up WordPress to creating content that ranks, grows your audience and makes money. This is the exact process I followed when building my own blog (this one!) from scratch, so you can confidently skip the trial and error and launch a professional blog fast.

I’ve spent the last 17 years building a successful online brand, photographing thousands of entrepreneurs, teaching content creation to business owners, and setting up more websites than I’d care to admit. I’ve also just rebuilt my own WordPress blog from scratch (this one!), so everything you’re about to learn is exactly what works right now – not the outdated advice floating around the internet.

Starting a blog feels like it should be simple, but the process can feel overwhelming enough to make you close your laptop and wonder if you should have become a florist instead. I’ve been there. I’ve cried into cushions. I’ve sworn at plugins. I survived long enough (so far, at least) to bring you this guide.

The good news? You don’t need to go through any of the pain I did! This step-by-step walkthrough will show you how to start a blog in 2026 without jargon, without panic, and with a bit of humour along the way. By the end, you’ll have a solid plan, a beautifully set-up blog, and the confidence to hit publish instead of endlessly “tweaking the homepage”.

Ready? Let’s get your blog online – minus the tears.

This post includes a few affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to buy through them. It won’t cost you anything extra, and it helps support the free content I create for small business owners.

By the end of this post, you’ll have the exact steps to start your own website from scratch – step by step – so your blog can support your:

• Small business growth
• Personal brand (whether you’re building a food blog, personal blog, or business blog)
• Client attraction
• Expert positioning
• SEO strategy
• Email list building
• Future passive income

And because I know some of you want to go deep while others just want the basics, I’ve created a hybrid guide with two layers:

1. The Beginner Section: Short sentences. Simple steps. Do-this-next clarity.
2. The Advanced Section (optional): For when you’re ready to grow faster and optimise like a pro.

This is a great way to learn at your own pace without feeling overwhelmed.

Ready? Let’s start building your blog without the panic!

Before You Start: What You Need

Before you begin building your blog, let’s talk about what you’ll actually need. The good news? It’s simpler than you think – and far more affordable than hiring a web designer.

The Non-Negotiables (What You Definitely Need)

Here’s your essential checklist for starting a professional blog:

• Domain Name: Your website address (like rosieparsons.com) – costs around $10-15 per year
• Web Hosting: Where your website lives online – expect to pay $5-20 per month depending on your plan
• WordPress (self-hosted): The platform that powers your blog – completely free to use
• WordPress Theme: The design template for your blog – free options available, premium themes cost $40-80
• Essential Plugins: Tools to add functionality to your blog – most are free, some premium options $30-100 per year

Total startup cost: $50-150 for your first year (that’s less than one month of Facebook ads!)

How Long Does It Take to Start a Blog?

Here’s the honest timeline:

• Basic setup: 2-4 hours (domain, hosting, WordPress installation, theme setup)
• Essential pages and design: 3-5 hours (About page, Contact page, menu customization)
• First blog post: 2-4 hours (research, writing, formatting, images)
• Total time to launch: for a simple blog 1-2 days of focused work (or if you’re like me and get a more involved theme (I have Create by Restored 316) with loads of posts showing on the homepage, possibly a couple of weeks).

You don’t need to complete everything in one sitting. Many successful bloggers spend a weekend setting up their blog, then refine it over time as they learn and grow.

Before we dive into the technical steps, let’s quickly address why blogging remains one of the most powerful tools for business growth:

Why Starting a Blog is Still Worth It in 2026 (And Why It’s a Great Thing for Your Business)

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s quickly talk about the “why” – because if you’re going to invest time and hard work into creating a blog, you deserve to know it’s actually worth it.

Here’s the most important thing to understand: a blog is one of the most powerful tools you can use to grow your business in 2026.

It’s not just a good idea – it’s genuinely one of the best ways to attract ideal clients, establish authority, and create valuable content that works for you long-term.

Here’s What a Blog Can Do For Your Business:

You’ll Show Up on Google (Hello, Organic Traffic)

When someone searches “how to take brand photos at home” or “best tips for confident business owners,” a blog post can put you right in front of them – without paying for ads.

This is called SEO (search engine optimisation), and it’s one of the most powerful tools for attracting new people to your business. A self-hosted WordPress blog is the best option for SEO because you have complete control over your content and technical setup.

You’ll Build Trust and Authority

People buy from people they trust. When someone reads your helpful, well-written blog posts, they start to see you as the expert. They feel like they know you. They trust your advice.

And when it’s time to hire someone or buy a course? You’re the obvious choice.

Sharing personal experiences and valuable content on a regular basis is a great way to build that trust naturally.

Your Blog Works While You Sleep

Unlike social media posts that disappear into the void after 24 hours, your blog posts keep working for you. A single post can attract readers, build your email list, and generate sales for months – even years – after you publish it.

This is a good thing – your content becomes a marketing tool that compounds over time.

You’ll Have a Home Base You Actually Own

Instagram could change its algorithm tomorrow. TikTok could ban your account. Facebook could disappear (okay, maybe not, but you get the point).

Your blog? That’s your own website. Nobody can take it away. You control it completely with your own domain name.

This is one of the most important reasons successful bloggers invest in their own domain and hosting rather than using free blogging platforms.

You Can Finally Stop Creating Content From Scratch Every Single Day

Here’s my favourite part: once you start blogging, your content creation gets SO much easier.

Write one blog post … then turn it into:

• Email newsletters
• Instagram captions
• Reels scripts
• Pinterest pins
• LinkedIn posts

One piece of valuable content becomes 10+. This is the blog-first content workflow, and it will save you hours every single week. It’s the best way to manage your social media accounts without burning out.

Step 1: Choose Your Blog Niche, Name and Audience

Your blog exists to support your business or personal brand. So your blog’s niche, blog name, and audience should all connect to where you want to grow.

This is the foundation and your starting point. Get this right, and everything else becomes easier.

BEGINNER VERSION: Keep This Simple

1.1 Pick Your Specific Niche

Your niche is simply the specific topic your blog will focus on. Whether you’re creating a food blog, personal blog, or business blog, clarity is key.

Choose a specific topic that:

• You actually enjoy talking about
• Supports your business or personal brand
• Helps someone solve a real problem
• You can write about on a regular basis (without running out of ideas)

Examples of Great Blog Niches:

• DIY brand photography for small business owners
• Confidence and personal branding for female entrepreneurs
• Business tips and tools for freelancers
• Marketing strategies for small businesses
• Handmade product business advice
• Life coaching for career changers
• Wellness tips for busy mums
• Food blog focusing on quick family meals
• Personal blog about building a creative business

You don’t need to niche down to something teeny-tiny like “gluten-free baking for left-handed vegans in Manchester.” Just be clear enough that your ideal reader knows your blog is for them.

Choosing a specific niche is a good idea because it helps you create valuable content that really resonates with your target audience.

1.2 Choose Your Blog Name

You have a few options here:

Option 1: Use your own name (great for personal brands)

• rosieparsons.com
• yourname.com

Option 2: Use your business name

• rosieparsonsphotography.com
• yourbusinessname.com

Option 3: Use a simple, descriptive name

• confidenceandbrand.com
• thesmallbusinessblog.com

Keep it:

• Short
• Memorable
• Easy to spell
• Easy to say out loud

Don’t overthink this. You can always tweak it later if you need to (though it’s a bit of a faff, so try to get it right the first time).

1.3 Know Your Target Audience

Who are you actually writing for?

Get specific. Think about:

• Who they are: Small business owners? Coaches? Creatives? Women building a personal brand?
• What they struggle with: Visibility? Confidence on camera? Time management? Client attraction?
• What they want to achieve: More clients? A bigger email list? To be seen as an expert?
• Where they hang out online: Instagram? Pinterest? Facebook groups?

The clearer you are about your target audience, the easier it will be to write content that actually resonates with them.

Your Blog Should Guide Readers Toward a Next Step

Every blog post you write should have a purpose. What do you want readers to do after they finish reading?

Examples:

• Join your email list
• Book a discovery call
• Download a freebie
• Take your course (like Slay Your Selfies)
• Buy your services
• Read another helpful post

When you’re clear on the next step, your blog becomes a genuine business asset – not just a random collection of articles.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want to Go Deeper

1.4 Define Your Content Pillars

Content pillars are the 3-5 main categories you’ll write about repeatedly. They form the foundation of your blog and help you create valuable content consistently.

Example Content Pillars for a Photography + Personal Brand Blog:

1. Blogging tips
2. DIY brand photography
3. Confidence and visibility
4. Business tools for small business owners
5. Behind-the-scenes and personal stories

These pillars should align with your business goals and support your offers. This is the best way to stay organised and ensure you’re always sharing personal experiences and expertise that matter to your audience.

1.5 Research Your Audience’s Language (A Great Place to Start)

One of the smartest things you can do before you start blogging is to research what your audience is actually saying. This is a great place to find content ideas.

Check:

• Facebook groups where your ideal clients hang out
• Pinterest search bar (type in a topic and see what auto-suggests)
• Google auto-suggest (start typing “how to…” and see what comes up)
• Google Keyword Planner (free tool that shows search volume)
• TikTok and Instagram search terms
• Comments under competitor posts
• Questions people ask you in DMs
• YouTube videos in your niche to see what’s popular

Write down the exact phrases people use. These become your blog topics AND your keywords. This research is valuable content planning in itself.

1.6 Connect Your Niche to Your Business Funnel

Here’s a powerful question to ask yourself:

“If someone finds my blog on Google, what is the next step I want them to take?”

This ensures your blog supports your business funnel instead of distracting from it. There are different ways to structure this, but the key is to have a clear path.

Example Funnel:

1. Reader finds your blog post on Google
2. They read your helpful, valuable content and trust you
3. They download your free checklist (and join your email list)
4. You nurture them with valuable emails on a regular basis
5. They buy your course or book your services

When you design your blog with this funnel in mind, every post becomes a step toward a sale. This is the right way to use your blog as a marketing tool.

Beginner Recap: Step 1

You’ve just defined your blog’s foundation. You now know your niche, understand your target audience, and have clarity on what makes your blog different. Don’t overthink it – your niche can evolve as you grow. The important thing is you’re clear enough to start creating content that helps real people.

Step 2: Plan Your Content Strategy

This is where most people get stuck when they start a blog – not the tech, but the “what do I even write about?” part.

What you’ll achieve in this step:

• Define your blog categories
• Create initial blog ideas
• Set up your content workflow

Your blog should be the centre of your entire marketing strategy. Everything else flows from it:

• Your Instagram posts
• Your Reels
• Your newsletters
• Your Pinterest pins
• Your freebies
• Your client trust-building

So let’s build your content plan first.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Simple Approach

2.1 Choose 3-5 Blog Categories

These are the main sections of your blog. They help readers navigate your site and help Google understand what you write about.

Example Blog Categories:

• Blogging tips
• DIY brand photography
• Business tools
• Confidence and visibility
• Personal brand storytelling

These should align perfectly with your business and the services or products you offer.

2.2 Brainstorm 10-20 Blog Post Ideas

Before you even touch WordPress, sit down and brainstorm blog post ideas.

Think about:

• What questions does your audience ask you all the time?
• What are people searching for on Google?
• What would get saved or shared on Pinterest?
• What problems can you help them solve?

Examples of Blog Post Ideas:

• “How to take brand photos at home with just your phone”
• “10 confidence tips for entrepreneurs who hate being on camera”
• “The beginner’s guide to starting a blog for your small business”
• “How to batch create content in one afternoon”
• “5 free tools every small business owner needs”

Aim for at least 10-20 ideas before you start. This way, you’ll never run out of things to write about.

2.3 Create Your Blog-First Content Workflow

This is where your unique angle shines.

Instead of creating content from scratch every single day, you write one blog post first … then repurpose it into everything else.

The Blog-First Workflow:

1. Write one blog post (1,500-2,500 words)
2. Turn it into 3-5 email newsletters
3. Pull quotes for Instagram captions
4. Create a Reel script from the main points
5. Design 5-10 Pinterest pins linking back to the post

This keeps your message consistent across all platforms AND saves you hours every single month.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want to Go Deeper

2.4 Create Pillar Posts (Your SEO Powerhouses)

Pillar posts are your long, in-depth, highly valuable guides. These are the posts that will rank on Google and bring you traffic for years.

Examples of Pillar Posts:

• “How to start a blog in 2026: The complete beginner’s guide” – don’t do this one, I just did it!
• “How to take brand photos at home: A step-by-step tutorial”
• “The ultimate guide to confident personal branding for small business owners”

Pillar posts should be at least 2,000 words (preferably 3,000+), packed with helpful information, and optimised for SEO.

2.5 Develop Your Customer Journey

Think of your blog as a gentle funnel that guides readers from “I just found you on Google” to “I’m ready to buy.”

Example Customer Journey:

1. Awareness: Reader finds your blog post on Google
2. Interest: They read more posts and start to trust you
3. Consideration: They download your freebie and join your email list
4. Decision: They book a call or buy your course

Every blog post should fit somewhere in this journey.

2.6 Add an Internal Link Strategy

Internal links are links from one blog post to another on your site. They help readers find more of your content, and they tell Google that your blog is well-organised and valuable.

Internal Linking Best Practices:

• Link to 2-3 related posts in every new post
• Use descriptive anchor text (e.g., “learn how to take better selfies” instead of “click here”)
• Link to your pillar posts often

You’ll add these links after your blog is live, but it’s good to plan for them now.

Beginner Recap: Step 2

You’ve created your content roadmap. You now have 3-5 blog categories, a list of initial post ideas, and a realistic publishing schedule. This planning saves you hours of “what should I write about?” stress later. Remember, you can always adjust your strategy as you learn what your audience loves.

This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when starting your blog. There are dozens of blogging platforms available, but not all of them are created equal – especially if you want to rank on Google and own your content.

Step 3: Choose the Right Blogging Platform

Here’s where things get a bit confusing: there are two WordPresses.

Yes, two. I know. It’s annoying.

But understanding the difference is critical, because choosing the wrong one will limit your blog from day one.

Blogging Platform Comparison: WordPress vs Other Options

Before we dive into WordPress specifically, here’s a quick comparison of the main blogging platforms so you can see why WordPress.org is the clear winner for serious bloggers:

WordPress.org (Self-Hosted)

• Best for: Business bloggers, content creators, anyone wanting full control
• Pros: Complete ownership, unlimited customisation, best SEO, full monetisation options, thousands of themes and plugins
• Cons: Requires hosting ($5-20/month), slight learning curve
• Verdict: The professional choice. This is what I recommend.

WordPress.com (Hosted)

• Best for: Personal diaries, hobby blogs with no growth plans
• Pros: Free to start, no technical setup
• Cons: Limited themes, limited plugins, restricted monetisation, you don’t own your site, awkward pricing tiers
• Verdict: Fine for a personal journal, but too limiting for business.

Wix

• Best for: Simple one-page websites, portfolios
• Pros: Drag-and-drop builder, beginner-friendly interface
• Cons: Poor SEO compared to WordPress, limited blogging features, expensive to remove ads, difficult to migrate away
• Verdict: Better for basic websites than serious blogs.

Squarespace

• Best for: Creatives wanting beautiful templates with minimal effort
• Pros: Gorgeous templates, all-in-one pricing, good for visual portfolios
• Cons: Limited blogging functionality, weaker SEO, less flexibility, harder to scale
• Verdict: Pretty, but not built for content-heavy blogs.

Blogger

• Best for: Absolute beginners testing the waters
• Pros: Completely free, owned by Google
• Cons: Outdated design, very limited features, Google could shut it down anytime, looks unprofessional
• Verdict: A relic from 2005. Avoid for business.

The bottom line? If you’re serious about blogging, WordPress.org is the only platform that gives you full ownership, unlimited growth potential, and the best chance of ranking on Google.

Plus, with over 60,000 free plugins available, you can add almost any feature you need. Want a contact form? There’s a plugin. Email signup? Plugin. Online shop? Plugin. No other platform comes close to this flexibility.

That’s why this entire guide focuses on WordPress.org.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Simple Explanation

WordPress.com (Not What You Want)

WordPress.com is the “free” version, but it comes with major limitations:

• Limited themes (ugly designs)
• Limited plugins (you can’t add most features)
• Limited monetisation (can’t run ads or sell properly)
• Limited control (you don’t really own your site)
• Awkward upgrades (confusing pricing tiers)

WordPress.com is fine for a personal diary blog, but if you want to grow a business? It’s not even close to good enough.

WordPress.org (This is What You Need – The Best Option)

WordPress.org is the professional, self-hosted version of WordPress. It’s what 43% of the entire internet runs on, and it’s the best option for anyone serious about their blog.

When you use WordPress.org, you’re creating a self-hosted WordPress blog – meaning you have complete control.

Why WordPress.org is the Only Choice:

• Full control over your own website
• Unlimited WordPress themes (both free WordPress themes and premium options)
• Unlimited WordPress plugins to add any feature you want
• Complete design freedom
• SEO-friendly (ranks better on Google)
• Fully monetisable (Google AdSense, affiliates, products, services)
• Perfect for businesses and personal brands
• You own your own domain name and all your content

You Don’t Need to Do Anything Yet

Just don’t sign up for WordPress.com by mistake. We’ll get WordPress.org installed for you automatically when you choose your hosting in Step 6.

The good news is that most hosting companies make this incredibly easy – often with detailed instructions and one-click installation.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want More Depth

3.1 Why WordPress.org Wins for SEO (One of the Most Powerful Tools)

WordPress.org gives you complete control over your site’s SEO, making it one of the most powerful tools for ranking on Google.

You can:

• Install Yoast SEO (the best SEO plugin)
• Edit permalinks (your URL structure – the right way to organize your content)
• Choose fast-loading WordPress themes
• Install speed optimisation WordPress plugins
• Compress images automatically
• Customise schema markup
• Integrate with Pinterest and Google Analytics
• Control site speed (a major Google ranking factor)
• Add Google AdSense when you’re ready to monetize

None of this is possible (or easy) on free blogging platforms like WordPress.com.

3.2 Why Successful Bloggers and Experts Use WordPress

If you want credibility, a professional online presence, or long-term business growth, WordPress.org is the only platform that scales with you.

You can start small and simple, then add features as you grow:

• Online shop (WooCommerce)
• Membership site
• Course platform
• Booking system
• Advanced email integrations
• Google AdSense for passive income

Everything is possible with a self-hosted WordPress blog. There are different ways to grow, and WordPress supports all of them. This is the best place to build a long-term online business.

Beginner Recap: Step 3

You’ve chosen WordPress.org as your blogging platform. This decision gives you complete ownership, unlimited customisation, and the best chance of ranking on Google. Self-hosted WordPress is the professional choice – you’re setting yourself up for long-term success, not just a hobby blog.

Your WordPress theme controls how your blog looks and functions. This is where design meets performance – and both matter for SEO and user experience.

Step 4: Choose Your WordPress Theme’s Entire Design

Your blog theme controls how your blog looks and feels – layout, fonts, colours, menus, everything.

And yes, theme choice affects site speed and SEO. A slow theme will hurt your Google rankings, no matter how good your valuable content is.

Choosing the right WordPress theme is one of the most important things you’ll do when you start your blog.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Easiest, Least Stressful Setup (The Best Way for Beginners)

4.1 Use Kadence (Parent Theme – The Best Option)

I’m going to make this simple for you: use Kadence.

This is the best way to start with a solid foundation. Kadence is one of the best WordPress themes available, and here’s why:

Kadence is:

• Fast (excellent for SEO)
• Beginner-friendly (the right place to start)
• Modern and professional
• Easy to customise without coding
• Works beautifully on mobile
• Compatible with WooCommerce (if you ever want to sell products)

It’s the blog theme I use, and I can’t recommend it enough. While there are many free WordPress themes available, Kadence offers the best balance of features and performance.

4.2 Choose a Restored 316 Child Theme (Optional but a Great Thing)

If you want your blog to look instantly polished and feminine without doing any design work yourself, add a Restored 316 child theme on top of Kadence. This is a great way to get professional design quickly.

These themes are gorgeous, pre-designed, and ready to go.

4.3 Download the Zip Files

Once you’ve chosen your WordPress theme(s), download the zip files and save them to your computer.

BigScoots (the hosting company I recommend) can install them for you – you don’t have to do it yourself. They’ll provide detailed instructions if needed.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want to Go Deeper

4.4 What is a Parent Theme vs Child Theme?

• Parent theme = the structure and functionality (Kadence)
• Child theme = the design layer that sits on top (Restored 316)

Using a child theme means you can update your parent theme without losing your design customisations.

4.5 Why Theme Performance Matters for SEO

Google ranks fast sites higher in search results. Your theme is one of the biggest factors affecting site speed.

Kadence = excellent Core Web Vitals.

Cheap, bloated themes = poor rankings.

Choose wisely.

4.6 Advanced Theme Customisations You Can Do Later

Kadence lets you customise:

• Header builder
• Footer builder
• Blog archive layouts
• Custom post templates
• Global colour palettes
• Typography presets

You don’t need to touch any of this now – it’s just nice to know it exists when you’re ready to level up.

4.7 Thrive Themes as an Alternative

If you want funnels, landing pages, quizzes, and conversion tools built into your theme, Thrive Themes is another excellent all-in-one option.

Beginner Recap: Step 4

You’ve selected a fast, professional WordPress theme. Whether you’ve chosen Kadence with a Restored 316 child theme or another quality option, your blog now has the design foundation it needs. A good theme improves your site speed, SEO performance, and user experience. You’ve made a smart investment in your blog’s success.

Step 5: How to Choose and Use Images on Your Blog

Now that you’ve chosen your theme and your blog is starting to take shape, let’s talk about one of the most important elements that beginners often overlook: images.

Strong visuals aren’t just “nice to have” – they’re essential for keeping readers engaged, building your brand identity, and even improving your SEO rankings.

Why Strong Visuals Matter for Your Blog

Here’s what quality images do for your blog:

• Keep people reading: Blog posts with images get 94% more views than text-only posts
• Build brand recognition: Consistent visual style makes your blog instantly recognisable
• Improve SEO: Image alt text and file names help Google understand your content
• Work on Pinterest: Eye-catching images drive massive traffic when pinned
• Make your blog feel professional: Even simple, well-lit photos elevate your brand immediately

The good news? You don’t need expensive equipment or professional photography skills. Your smartphone is absolutely good enough to create beautiful blog images.

How to Take Great Photos Using Only Your Phone

Most modern smartphones have excellent cameras – the secret is knowing how to use them properly.

Lighting: The Single Most Important Element

Good lighting makes everything look better. Bad lighting makes even expensive cameras produce rubbish photos.

Best practices:

• Shoot near a window during daylight hours (natural light is your best friend)
• Face the light source – position yourself or your subject facing the window
• Avoid overhead lights – they create harsh shadows and unflattering angles
• Overcast days are brilliant for photography – the clouds act as a natural diffuser
• Early morning and late afternoon have the softest, most flattering light

Avoid: Direct harsh sunlight, yellow indoor lighting, backlighting (light behind your subject), and photos taken at night without proper lighting.

Backgrounds: Keep It Simple and Uncluttered

Your background should support your subject, not distract from it.

Good background choices:

• Plain white or neutral walls
• Wooden tables or floors
• Simple textured fabrics (linen, cotton)
• Clean desks or workspaces
• Natural outdoor settings (gardens, parks)

Avoid: Cluttered rooms, messy backgrounds, distracting patterns, unmade beds visible in frame, or anything that pulls attention away from your main subject.

Composition: How to Frame Your Shot

Composition is simply how you arrange elements within your photo.

Simple composition rules that work:

• Rule of thirds: Imagine your photo divided into nine equal squares (like a tic-tac-toe grid). Place your subject along those lines or at the intersections
• Leave breathing room: Don’t crop too tightly – give your subject space around the edges
• Fill the frame: Get close enough that your subject is the clear focus
• Use leading lines: Roads, shelves, table edges naturally draw the eye through your photo
• Keep horizons level: Wonky angles look unintentional and unprofessional

Angles: Change Your Perspective

The angle you shoot from dramatically changes how your photo looks.

Try these angles:

• Eye level: Straight on – feels natural and conversational
• Slightly above: Flattering for most subjects, great for flat lays
• 45-degree angle: Perfect for products, food, desk setups
• Close-up details: Adds variety and visual interest

Don’t just stand and shoot everything from the same height. Crouch down, stand on a chair, move around your subject. The best angle often surprises you.

Creating a Consistent Visual Style

Consistency is what makes your blog look professional and recognisable. You don’t need to overthink this – just make a few simple decisions and stick with them.

Choose your aesthetic elements:

• Colour palette: Pick 3-5 colours that appear regularly in your photos
• Mood: Bright and airy? Moody and dramatic? Warm and cosy? Pick one vibe
• Editing style: Use the same filter or editing approach on all photos
• Props: Reuse similar props across photos (your favourite mug, notebook, workspace)

When someone lands on your blog, they should immediately recognise your visual style across different posts. This builds brand recognition faster than you’d think.

Optimising Images for the Web

Beautiful photos are wonderful – but if they’re too large, they’ll slow down your site and hurt your SEO. Here’s how to optimise properly.

File Size and Compression

Ideal image specs for blogs:

• Width: 1200-1500 pixels maximum (more than enough for screens)
• File size: Under 200KB per image (aim for 100-150KB)
• Format: JPG for photos, PNG for graphics with text

How to compress images:

• Use free tools like TinyPNG or Squoosh before uploading
• Install a WordPress image optimisation plugin (ShortPixel, Imagify)
• Never upload photos straight from your phone without resizing first

Alt Text Basics for SEO

Alt text (alternative text) describes your image for people who can’t see it – and for Google.

How to write good alt text:

• Describe what’s actually in the image: “Woman working on laptop at wooden desk with coffee”
• Include relevant keywords naturally: “Brand photographer taking phone photos with natural window light”
• Keep it under 125 characters
• Don’t keyword stuff: “best blog photos blogging tips how to blog” is rubbish alt text
• Don’t start with “image of” or “picture of” – it’s implied

Every single image on your blog should have descriptive alt text. This helps Google understand your content and improves accessibility.

What Makes an Image Blog-Friendly?

Not all photos work well on blogs. Here’s what to look for:

Good blog image:

• Bright and clear (easy to see what’s happening)
• Simple background (doesn’t distract)
• In focus (sharp, not blurry)
• Properly lit (natural, even lighting)
• Relevant to content (supports your message)

Better blog image:

• All of the above, plus:
• Shows your face or personality (builds connection)
• Matches your brand colours (creates consistency)
• Tells a story (evokes emotion or curiosity)
• Pinterest-friendly vertical format (2:3 ratio works brilliantly)

Avoid: Dark, grainy photos; cluttered backgrounds; images with harsh shadows; photos that have nothing to do with your content; overly posed or staged shots that don’t feel authentic; images with distracting watermarks or text overlays that look unprofessional.

You Don’t Need Perfect Photos to Start

Here’s the most important thing I want you to understand: quality photos will help your blog look polished and professional right from the beginning – but they don’t need to be perfect.

A simple, well-lit photo taken on your phone near a window will always beat:

• Generic stock photos that look nothing like you or your brand
• No photos at all (walls of text are hard to read)
• Waiting months until you “get it right” before publishing

Start with what you can do now. Take photos with your phone. Use natural light. Keep backgrounds simple. Add them to your blog posts.

Your photography skills will improve with every photo you take. The important thing is to start, not to be perfect.

If you’d like step-by-step guidance on taking bright, professional photos for your blog using only your phone, my digital course Slay Your Selfies teaches simple techniques for lighting, posing and composition. It’s designed to help you create colourful, on-brand images even if you’re camera-shy or don’t feel confident on the technical side.

Beginner Recap: Step 5

You now understand how to create professional blog images using just your phone. You know the basics of lighting, composition, and image optimisation. Even simple, well-lit photos will make your blog look polished from day one. Remember, progress over perfection. Start taking photos now and improve as you go. (And hopefully you’re probably already thinking about signing up to Slay Your Selfies! I don’t blame you.)

Step 6: Set Up a Staging Site

Here’s something most “how to start a blog” guides won’t tell you about – but it’s genuinely one of the smartest things you can do as a beginner.

A staging site is like a practice version of your blog where you can test changes, experiment with design, and learn how WordPress works – without accidentally breaking your live site.

Why This Matters for Beginners:

• No mistakes go live: Test everything before your audience sees it
• You can practice: Learn how to add blog posts, change colors, upload images – all in a safe space
• Safer for SEO: Avoid accidentally deleting pages or breaking links on your live site
• Reduced anxiety: You can click around without worrying “Did I just break something?”

It’s your secret, behind-the-scenes version of your blog.

Think of it like your private dressing room where you can try on outfits, mess things up, practise, and make changes before the world sees anything.

You absolutely want a staging site if this is your first time starting a blog.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Simple Explanation

5.1 What is a Staging Site?

A staging site is a private version of your blog where you can:

• Practise using WordPress
• Make mistakes without consequences
• Change colours and fonts
• Break things (and fix them)
• Learn at your own pace

Nobody can see it except you. It’s not live on the internet yet.

5.2 Ask BigScoots to Create It

When you sign up for hosting in Step 6, just message BigScoots on live chat and say:

“Can you please set up a staging site for my new WordPress blog?”

They’ll do it for you. Done.

5.3 Why Staging Sites Are Brilliant for Beginners

Because you:

• Won’t accidentally publish half-built pages
• Won’t panic if the menu disappears
• Won’t break your live site
• Can build everything at your own pace

You can customise your theme, homepage, menus, colours, blog post layout, plugins, logo, and fonts – all behind the scenes.

When you’re ready, BigScoots will “push it live” with one click.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want to Go Deeper

5.4 Why Staging Sites Matter for SEO

Staging sites let Google index your blog only when it’s actually ready – not when it’s half-built, broken, or full of placeholder text.

This protects your:

• Site quality score
• User experience
• Search rankings

5.5 When to Use Your Staging Site Later

Your staging site isn’t just for beginners. Use it again when you want to:

• Redesign your site
• Change themes
• Test new plugins
• Create a new homepage layout
• Update your branding
• Add WooCommerce

It’s an incredibly useful long-term tool.

Beginner Recap: Step 6

You’ve set up your staging site (or know how to ask BigScoots to do it for you). This practice space means you can experiment, make mistakes, and learn WordPress without any anxiety about breaking your live blog. It’s your secret weapon for confident blogging from day one.

Step 7: Choose Your Hosting Plan and Domain

This step is easier than it sounds – especially with BigScoots on your side (the hosting provider I use for my blog after trying a few!).

Choosing the right hosting company is one of the most important things you’ll do. The good news is that I’m going to show you the best way to do this with exact steps.

Your domain name is your blog’s address (like rosieparsons.com). Your web hosting is where your blog lives online. Think of it as renting space on the internet for your website files, images, and content.

This is a decision that affects your blog’s speed, security, and SEO rankings – so it’s worth getting right from the start. Plus some of them are a lot more helpful than others!

What is Web Hosting?

Web hosting is like renting a home for your website. Your hosting company provides:

• Server space to store your blog files
• Bandwidth so people can access your site
• Technical support when things go wrong
• Security features to protect your site
• Email accounts using your domain name

You cannot skip hosting. Even if you buy a domain name, you need hosting to make your website accessible online.

How Much Does Hosting Cost?

Hosting costs vary depending on the quality and features:

• Budget hosting: $2-5/month (often slow, limited support, shared servers)
• Quality shared hosting: $5-15/month (faster, better support, still shared servers)
• Managed WordPress hosting: $15-30/month (optimised for WordPress, excellent performance)
• VPS or dedicated hosting: $30-100+/month (for high-traffic sites, advanced users)

For new bloggers, quality shared hosting or managed WordPress hosting is the sweet spot. Don’t go for the cheapest option – slow loading speeds will hurt your SEO rankings and frustrate your readers.

How Much Does a Domain Cost?

A domain name (your website address like rosieparsons.com) typically costs:

• .com domains: $10-15 per year
• .co.uk domains: $6-10 per year
• .blog domains: $20-30 per year
• Premium domains: $100-1000+ per year (short, memorable names)

Many hosting companies include a free domain name for your first year when you sign up. This saves you $10-15 initially.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Simple Checklist (Exact Steps)

6.1 I 100% recommend choosing BigScoots for Hosting (The Best Place to Start)

I’ve tried other hosting companies (some well-known, some cheap), and BigScoots has been an absolute dream. This is 100% the best place to host your self-hosted WordPress blog.

Special offer: Use voucher code CM6QU7A40B1Y for 25% off your first year with BigScoots.

Why I recommend BigScoots:

• Real humans on live chat (not bots)
• Simple explanations (no confusing tech jargon)
• Fast and secure
• They install WordPress for you with detailed instructions
• They install your blog theme for you
• They create your staging site
• They connect your own domain name
• Excellent customer support – perfect for non-techie blogging beginners

You don’t need to be “techy.” They guide you through the exact steps for everything.

This is genuinely the best option for beginners who want to create their own website without stress.

6.2 Choose Your Hosting Plan

For beginners, the basic plan is absolutely enough. You can upgrade later as your traffic grows. Don’t overthink this – just start with their entry-level plan. It won’t take much time to set up. If you get confused at any point you can also ask BigScoots for advice on their live chat on their website. Their support is second to none and you’ll get through to a human straightaway. I’ve never seen service like it!

6.3 Choose Your Domain Name (Your Own Domain Name)

You can:

• Buy it through BigScoots (easiest option and the best way for beginners)
• Or buy it separately on Namecheap (more steps, but fine if you prefer)

Your domain should be:

• Short
• Easy to spell
• On-brand
• Memorable

Examples:

• rosieparsons.com
• yourname.com
• yourbusinessname.com

You only need one domain. Don’t overthink it. Some hosting companies offer a free domain for the first year, which is a good thing if you’re on a budget.

Avoid free blogging platforms that give you a subdomain (like yourname.wordpress.com) – you want your own domain name for credibility and SEO. This is the right place to invest if you’re serious about your blog.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want More Control

6.4 Why Hosting Matters for SEO (And Why It’s Worth the Hard Work)

Good hosting = faster site = better Google rankings. This is one of the most important things to understand.

Good hosting gives you:

• Faster site speed
• Better uptime (your site is always accessible)
• Better Core Web Vitals scores
• Fewer errors
• Higher search rankings

Cheap hosting (like $3/month shared hosting) from low-quality hosting companies slows everything down and can hurt your SEO. At the end of the day, you get what you pay for.

Investing in quality hosting is the best way to ensure your self-hosted WordPress blog performs well. It’s a good idea to choose a reputable hosting company from the first step.

6.5 SSL Certificate (Personal Information Security)

BigScoots will set this up for you automatically with detailed instructions if needed.

But in case you’re curious: SSL = the little padlock next to your URL in the browser.

Google requires SSL certificates for trust and security. Without one, your site will show as “Not Secure” (not good). This is especially important if you collect any personal information from readers.

6.6 Domain Structure

Choose either:

• www.yourname.com
• yourname.com

Both are fine. Consistency matters more than which one you pick. This is your new domain that will become your home on the internet.

Beginner Recap: Step 7

You’ve chosen your hosting provider and secured your domain name. Your blog now has a home on the internet and a professional web address. With BigScoots hosting and your voucher code applied, you’ve got fast, reliable hosting with excellent support. You’re ready to install WordPress and start building.

Step 8: Install WordPress and Log In

This is where most beginners panic… but with BigScoots, you don’t do any of it yourself.

Once you’ve purchased your hosting and domain, it’s time to install WordPress and access your new blog’s dashboard.

WordPress Installation (The Easy Way)

If you’re using BigScoots:

Contact their support team via live chat and simply say: “Please install WordPress on my domain.” They’ll have it done within 5-10 minutes, and you’ll receive an email with your login details.

BigScoots will install:

• WordPress
• Kadence (your theme)
• Your child theme (if you chose one)
• Your staging site
• Your domain connection

All you have to do is ask.

What You’ll Receive After WordPress Installation

After WordPress is installed, you’ll receive:

• Login URL: yoursite.com/wp-admin
• Username: The admin username you created
• Temporary password: Change this immediately after first login

BEGINNER VERSION: What You Need to Do

7.1 Just Ask BigScoots

Send a message on live chat:

“Can you please install WordPress and my theme for me?”

They’ll do it. You don’t need to click anything complicated.

7.2 Check Your Email

You’ll receive:

• Your WordPress login URL
• Your username
• A temporary password

Click the link. Log in. You’re inside your WordPress dashboard.

7.3 Take a Breath – This is the Learning Curve Moment

Everyone feels overwhelmed the first time they see the WordPress dashboard.

It looks complicated. It’s full of menus and options you don’t understand yet.

But it gets easier SO quickly. Trust me.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want More Detail

7.4 The WordPress Dashboard Overview

When you log in, you’ll see:

• Posts (where your blog posts live)
• Pages (for static pages like About, Contact, etc.)
• Appearance (where you customise your theme)
• Plugins (where you add features)
• Settings (important stuff like permalinks)
• Media (your image library)
• Tools (import/export, etc.)

You don’t need to learn everything at once. You’ll learn naturally as you go.

Beginner Recap: Step 8

You’ve installed WordPress and logged in for the first time. You can now access your dashboard, navigate the basic menu, and you understand where everything lives. Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming. You’ll get comfortable with it quickly as you start creating content.

Step 9: Customise Your Blog and Create Essential Pages

Now that WordPress is installed and your theme is activated, it’s time to make your blog look professional and create the essential pages every website needs.

Set Up Your Homepage Layout

You have two main options for your homepage:

Option 1: Blog Posts Homepage (Traditional Blog)

Your latest blog posts display automatically on your homepage. This works well if your primary goal is content marketing and SEO.

To set this up: Go to Settings → Reading → Select “Your latest posts”

Option 2: Static Homepage (Business Website)

Create a custom welcome page with your introduction, services, and call-to-action. Your blog posts appear on a separate “Blog” page.

I recommend Option 2 for service-based businesses and coaches. It gives you more control over first impressions.

Add Plugins

Plugins are like apps for your blog. They add features and functionality without you needing to code anything.

Keep it simple at first. You don’t need 20 plugins. Start with these essentials. Yon can find them in your WordPress menu to the left of your admin area.

BEGINNER VERSION: Install These 5 Plugins

8.1 Yoast SEO

Helps you optimise your titles, meta descriptions, and basic SEO. This plugin is essential for ranking on Google.

8.2 Google Analytics (by Site Kit)

Shows you how many readers you have, where they’re coming from, and which posts are most popular.

8.3 Google Search Console (by Site Kit)

Shows you what keywords you’re ranking for and how people are finding your blog on Google.

8.4 Grow by Mediavine

Great for social sharing buttons, email sign-ups, and content organisation. Also prepares your site for display ads later (if you want that).

8.5 ShortPixel or Imagify

Compresses your images automatically so they load faster. Fast site speed = better SEO.

ADVANCED VERSION: Optional Plugins to Add Later

• Redirection plugin (for fixing broken links)
• WooCommerce (if you want to sell products)
• Backup plugin (though BigScoots backs up your site for you)
• Cache plugin (depends on your host)
• Social sharing plugin (for Pinterest, Facebook, etc.)
• Security plugin (like Wordfence)

You don’t need any of these on day one. Start simple.

Beginner Recap: Step 9

You’ve customised your blog and created your essential pages. Your About page tells your story, your Contact page makes you reachable, and your essential plugins are installed. Your blog now looks professional and functions properly. You’re ready to start creating content.

This is the moment you’ve been working toward – creating and publishing your very first blog post. It’s normal to feel nervous or overwhelmed, but remember: your first post doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be helpful.

Step 10: Write and Publish Your First Blog Post

This is where your blog starts to feel real. Exciting!!

Your first post doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be published.

What Should Your First Blog Post Be About?

Your first blog post should cover:

• A simple, helpful tutorial: Something your audience struggles with that you can explain clearly
• A searchable topic: Something people actually type into Google
• A problem your audience already has: Answer a question you hear repeatedly

BEGINNER VERSION: The Simple Formula

9.1 Choose a Simple Topic

Pick something that helps your audience right away.

Examples:

• “5 tips for taking better selfies”
• “How I planned my first month of blog content”
• “The best free tools for small business owners”

9.2 Write a Short Introduction

Explain:

• What the post is about
• Who it’s for
• Why it matters

Keep it friendly and conversational.

9.3 Create 3-5 Easy Sections

Use headings (H2s and H3s) to break up your post.

Write in short paragraphs. Short sentences. Easy to read.

9.4 Add Images

Use:

• Your own photos
• Screenshots
• Simple graphics from Canva

Add an image every 2-4 paragraphs to keep things visually interesting.

9.5 Add a Simple CTA (Call to Action)

At the end of your post, tell readers what to do next:

• Join your email list
• Read another post
• Download a freebie
• Book a call

Make it clear and easy.

ADVANCED VERSION: If You Want to Shine

9.6 SEO Optimise Your Post

Use your target keyword in:

• The title
• The first sentence
• A few headings (H2s and H3s)
• Image alt text
• Meta description

Don’t force it. Use it naturally.

9.7 Add Internal Links

Link to 2-3 other posts on your blog (when you have them) to keep readers on your site longer.

9.8 Add Affiliate Links (If Relevant)

If you mention a product or tool you love, add your affiliate link. It’s an easy way to earn commissions. You must remember to disclose affiliate links if you post them though. Something simple at the top of the post saying “This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.” is perfect.

Beginner Recap: Step 10

You’ve written and published your first blog post. Whether you’re still on your staging site or already live, you’ve created helpful content for your audience. This is a huge milestone. Your first post doesn’t need to be perfect. What matters is that you’ve started, and you can always refine it as your skills improve.

Step 11: Promote Your Blog and Drive Traffic

Publishing your blog post is only half the work (#sorry!). Now you need to get eyes on your content and build your audience!

Pinterest: Your Blog’s Best Friend

Pinterest is a visual search engine that drives massive traffic to blogs – especially for lifestyle, business, food, DIY, and creative content.

SEO (search engine optimisation) sounds technical, but it’s surprisingly simple once you learn the basics.

SEO = helping Google understand your content so it can show your blog to the right people.

BEGINNER VERSION: The Only Three Things You Need to Remember

10.1 One Keyword Per Post

Focus on one main keyword per post. Don’t try to rank for everything.

Example: “how to start a blog”

10.2 Put Your Keyword in the Right Places

• Title
• First paragraph
• A few headings
• Image alt text
• Meta description

10.3 Write Helpful Content

Google rewards content that genuinely helps people. Write for humans first, search engines second.

ADVANCED VERSION: For Those Ready to Grow

10.4 Create an SEO-Friendly Structure

Use H2s and H3s so your post is easy to skim. Google loves well-structured content.

10.5 Aim for 1,000-2,500 Words

Longer content tends to rank better. Aim for at least 1,000 words per post (but quality over quantity always).

10.6 Answer Questions

Use FAQs at the end of your post to add natural keywords and provide extra value.

10.7 Use Google Trends and Keyword Planner

Look for related searches, synonyms, and long-tail keywords to include naturally in your post.

Beginner Recap: Step 11

You now understand how to promote your blog and drive traffic. You know the basics of SEO, Pinterest, and building an email list. Traffic takes time to build, so be patient and consistent. Focus on creating helpful content, and the readers will come.

how to start and make money with a blog

Once your blog is established and getting consistent traffic, there are multiple ways to monetize your content and turn your blog into a profitable business.

Display Ads

Display ads are banners, videos, or images placed on your blog that generate income based on views or clicks.

Popular ad networks:

• Google AdSense: Easy to get approved, lower earnings, good for beginners
• Mediavine: Requires 50,000 monthly sessions, much higher earnings
• AdThrive: Requires 100,000 monthly page views, highest earnings potential

Realistic earnings: $1-5 per 1,000 page views with AdSense, $15-30 per 1,000 views with premium networks.

Affiliate Marketing

Promote products or services you genuinely use and love, earning a commission when readers purchase through your unique link.

Popular affiliate programs:

• Amazon Associates (physical products)
• ShareASale (wide variety of merchants)
• CJ Affiliate (big brands)
• Individual company programs (often higher commissions)

Affiliate marketing works best when you create detailed product reviews, comparison posts, and tutorials featuring the products you recommend.

Digital Products

Create and sell your own digital products that provide value to your audience:

• Ebooks: In-depth guides on topics you know well
• Templates: Downloadable resources people can use immediately
• Workbooks: Interactive PDFs that help people implement your advice
• Printables: Planners, checklists, calendars
• Stock photos: If you’re a photographer

Digital products have incredible profit margins since you create them once and sell them repeatedly.

Online Courses

Transform your expertise into comprehensive video courses that teach people valuable skills.

Courses typically price between $50-500 depending on depth and transformation promised. Your blog becomes the perfect platform for attracting course students through free valuable content.

Services

Use your blog to attract high-quality clients for your services:

• Coaching or consulting
• Freelance services (writing, design, photography)
• Done-for-you services
• Strategy sessions

Many coaches and service providers use their blog primarily as a client attraction tool, generating six or seven figures annually from services alone.

Brand Partnerships and Sponsored Content

As your blog grows, brands may approach you to create sponsored content. This could include dedicated blog posts, social media mentions, or product features in exchange for payment.

Sponsored post rates vary wildly depending on your traffic, niche, and engagement. Smaller bloggers might earn $50-200 per post, while established bloggers can charge $500-2,000+ for a single collaboration.

The key is to only partner with brands that genuinely fit your audience. Your readers trust your recommendations, so protect that trust by being selective about who you work with.

Gifted Products and Reviews

Brands often send free products to bloggers in exchange for honest reviews. This is a great way to create content while trying new products relevant to your niche.

You might receive anything from books and beauty products to software subscriptions and tech gadgets. Some brands ask for a review in return, while others simply hope you’ll mention them if you love the product.

Even if you didn’t pay for something, your opinion still matters. Be honest in your reviews, whether the product was gifted or not.

Important: Disclosure Requirements

You must disclose affiliate links, sponsored content, and gifted products. This isn’t optional. It’s a legal requirement in the UK under the ASA and CAP codes, and similar rules apply in most countries.

For affiliate links, add a simple statement at the top of posts:

“This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through my link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.”

For sponsored posts, clearly state the partnership:

“This post is sponsored by [Brand Name]” or “This post is in collaboration with [Brand Name].”

For gifted products, be transparent:

“[Brand] kindly sent me this product to try” or “PR sample.”

Your readers will respect your honesty. Trying to hide partnerships damages trust far more than simply being upfront about them.

Important note: Don’t worry about monetization when you’re just starting out. Focus first on creating helpful content and building your audience. Once you have consistent traffic (1,000+ monthly visitors), monetization opportunities will become much clearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a blog for beginners?

Starting a blog as a beginner is simpler than you think. Purchase hosting, install WordPress, choose a theme, create your essential pages, and publish your first helpful post. You can have a basic blog running in 2-4 hours.

Here are the 10 steps:

1. Choose your niche and name
2. Buy a domain name
3. Pick quality hosting like BigScoots
4. Install WordPress
5. Choose a fast theme like Kadence
6. Set up essential pages (About, Contact, Privacy Policy)
7. Install key plugins (Yoast SEO, image optimisation)
8. Plan your content strategy
9. Write your first helpful blog post
10. Promote on Pinterest and social media

The most important thing? Just start. You’ll learn as you go, and that’s completely normal.

How much does it cost to start a blog?

Starting a professional blog costs approximately $50-150 for your first year. This includes hosting, a domain name, and optionally a premium theme. Many hosting companies include a free domain for your first year.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Domain name: $10-15/year
• Quality web hosting: $5-20/month ($60-240/year)
• Premium theme (optional): $40-80 one-time
• Essential plugins: Mostly free (premium options $30-100/year)

Free blogging platforms exist, but they come with significant limitations: ads you can’t remove, restricted customisation, poor SEO potential, and you don’t actually own your site.

For a serious business blog, budget $50-150 for year one. That’s less than one month of Facebook ads and gives you an asset you fully control.

What do I need to start a blog?

You need five essential things to start a professional blog: a domain name, web hosting, WordPress, a theme, and a few key plugins. You don’t need fancy equipment, tech skills, or a huge budget. If you can send an email, you can start a blog.

The five essentials:

1. Domain name: Your website address like yourname.com ($10-15/year)
2. Web hosting: Where your blog lives online ($5-20/month)
3. WordPress.org: The free platform that powers your blog
4. A WordPress theme: The design template (free options available, premium $40-80)
5. Essential plugins: Tools like Yoast SEO and image compression (mostly free)

Many hosting companies like BigScoots will even install WordPress and your theme for you. Just ask their support team via chat. It’s genuinely simpler than most people think.

How do I choose a blog niche?

Choose a blog niche by combining who you help with what problem you solve. Your niche = your target audience + their specific struggle. For example: “I help wedding photographers book dream clients” or “I teach busy mums how to meal prep on a budget.”

Ask yourself these questions:

• What do people ask me about all the time?
• What problem do I solve in my business?
• What topics could I write 50 blog posts about without getting bored?

Don’t overthink this. Your niche doesn’t need to be unique or revolutionary. It just needs to be clear enough that the right people know your blog is for them.

Your niche can evolve as you grow. Many successful bloggers refine their focus over time. The important thing is to pick something and start creating content.

How do I start a blog on WordPress?

To start a blog on WordPress, purchase hosting from a quality provider like BigScoots, register your domain name, and ask them to install WordPress for you. Most hosting companies do this for free within minutes. The whole setup takes 2-4 hours.

Step-by-step process:

1. Purchase hosting ($5-20/month) and register your domain
2. Ask support to install WordPress (or it installs automatically)
3. Log in to your dashboard at yoursite.com/wp-admin
4. Install a fast, SEO-friendly theme like Kadence (free)
5. Create essential pages: About, Contact, and Privacy Policy
6. Install key plugins: Yoast SEO, image compression, Google Site Kit
7. Customise your navigation menu and design
8. Write and publish your first helpful blog post

WordPress powers over 40% of all websites. It’s the best choice for serious bloggers who want full control and excellent SEO.

How long does it take to start a blog?

You can have a basic blog up and running in 2-4 hours if you focus on essentials. A fully polished blog with multiple pages, customised design, and your first blog post typically takes 1-2 days of focused work.

Realistic timeline:

• Basic technical setup (domain, hosting, WordPress, theme): 2-4 hours
• Creating essential pages and customising design: 3-5 hours
• Writing and publishing your first blog post: 2-4 hours
• Total: 1-2 days spread across a weekend

You don’t have to do it all in one sitting. And you absolutely don’t need everything perfect before launching. Many successful bloggers publish their site and refine it over time.

Progress over perfection wins every time.

What should my first blog post be about?

Your first blog post should answer a question your target audience frequently asks, solve a specific problem they have, or teach them something step-by-step. Focus on topics people actually search for on Google rather than writing about yourself.

Good first post formulas:

• “5 Mistakes [Your Audience] Makes When [Doing Something]”
• “How to [Solve Problem] in [Timeframe]”
• “The Beginner’s Guide to [Relevant Topic]”
• “What I Wish I’d Known About [Topic] When I Started”

Choose something you can explain well without needing to be an absolute expert. Your unique perspective and personal experience matter more than perfection.

Your first post doesn’t need to be your best post ever. It just needs to provide value and get you started. You’ll improve with every post you write.

How do bloggers make money?

Bloggers make money through multiple income streams including display ads, affiliate marketing, digital products, online courses, services, and sponsored content. Most successful bloggers combine several of these rather than relying on just one.

Main income streams:

• Display ads: Earn $15-30 per 1,000 page views through networks like Mediavine or AdThrive
• Affiliate marketing: Promote products you use and earn 5-30% commission on sales
• Digital products: Sell ebooks, templates, workbooks, or printables you create once
• Online courses: Teach your expertise (typically $50-500 per student)
• Services: Attract coaching, consulting, or freelance clients (often the fastest path to income)
• Sponsored content: Partner with brands to create content featuring their products

Don’t worry about monetisation when you’re just starting out. Focus first on creating helpful content and building your audience. Once you have consistent traffic (1,000+ monthly visitors), monetisation opportunities become much clearer.

Is blogging still worth it in 2026?

Yes, blogging is absolutely still worth it in 2026. In fact, it’s more valuable than ever for business owners and personal brands. A blog helps you show up on Google, builds trust and authority, and creates content that works for years after you publish it.

Why blogging matters in 2026:

• Free organic traffic: Show up on Google when people search for solutions you provide
• Builds authority: Readers who find your helpful content see you as the expert
• Long-term asset: Blog posts work for months or years, unlike social posts that disappear
• You own it: Unlike social platforms that could change algorithms or ban your account
• Content repurposing: One blog post becomes Instagram posts, Pinterest pins, emails, and more
• Human connection: While AI generates generic content, readers value authentic advice from real people

The bloggers struggling in 2026 are those creating thin, unhelpful content. The bloggers thriving are those creating genuinely valuable, personality-driven content that helps real people solve real problems.

How do I create a blog people will read?

Create a blog people will actually read by solving real problems, using your authentic voice, and making content easy to scan. People read blogs that help them, sound human, and feel trustworthy.

Key principles:

• Solve real problems: Write about questions your audience asks repeatedly
• Use your authentic voice: Write like you’re talking to a friend over coffee
• Make it scannable: Short paragraphs, clear headings, bullet points, images
• Lead with value: Hook readers in your first 2-3 sentences
• Include personal experience: “Here’s what happened when I tried this” beats generic advice
• Optimise for SEO: Use relevant keywords so Google can send you traffic
• Show your face: Add photos of yourself throughout your blog
• Promote consistently: Share on Pinterest, social media, and email
• Write regularly: Consistency builds an audience faster than sporadic genius

Focus on being genuinely helpful, sounding human, and building trust. Do those three things and you’re already ahead of most bloggers.

Final Checklist: OMG You’re Ready to Launch!

Before you officially launch your blog, run through this final checklist to ensure everything is ready:

Technical Setup

• Domain name purchased and connected
• Quality web hosting activated
• WordPress installed and updated to latest version
• SSL certificate installed (your site shows “https” not “http”)
• Permalinks set to “Post name” structure
• Theme installed and activated
• Staging site created for testing changes

Essential Pages Created

• Homepage (static or blog posts)
• About page with your photo and story
• Contact page with working contact form
• Privacy Policy page
• Blog page (if using static homepage)

Design and Branding

• Navigation menu created with essential pages
• Logo or site title added to header
• Brand colours applied consistently
• Readable fonts chosen
• Footer customised with copyright and links
• Favicon uploaded (small icon that appears in browser tabs)

Essential Plugins Installed

• Yoast SEO or RankMath (for search optimisation)
• Google Site Kit (connects Google Analytics and Search Console)
• Image optimisation plugin (ShortPixel, Imagify, or TinyPNG)
• Backup plugin or hosting backup enabled
• WPForms or similar contact form plugin
• Email signup plugin (if building list immediately)

Content Ready

• First blog post written and published
• Professional photos added throughout site
• All images have descriptive alt text
• Internal links added where relevant
• Meta descriptions written for key pages
• Content plan created for next 3-5 blog posts

Mobile and Testing

• Site checked on mobile devices (looks good and loads fast)
• All links tested and working
• Contact form tested (actually sends emails to you)
• Images load properly everywhere
• Site speed tested (use Google PageSpeed Insights)

Promotion Prep

• Pinterest business account created
• Pin graphics designed for first post
• Social media posts scheduled to announce launch
• Blog link added to all social media bios
• Email list signup form visible on site

Once you’ve checked off these items, you’re officially ready to launch your blog to the world!

Troubleshooting Common Beginner Problems When You Start a Blog

Problem: “My site looks weird on mobile.”

Solution: Check your theme’s mobile settings in the WordPress Customiser. Most modern themes (like Kadence) are mobile-responsive by default, but you may need to adjust font sizes or spacing.

Problem: “My images look blurry.”

Solution: Upload images at 1200-1500px wide. Don’t upload images that are too small (they’ll stretch and blur) or too large (they’ll slow down your site).

Problem: “Google isn’t indexing my blog.”

Solution: Submit your sitemap to Google Search Console. Yoast SEO creates one automatically at yoursite.com/sitemap.xml.

Problem: “I feel embarrassed posting photos of myself.”

Solution: Everyone starts there. It gets easier with practice – I promise.

Start with one photo on your About page. Then add more as you get comfortable.

Problem: “I don’t know what to write about.”

Solution: Write about the questions your audience asks you all the time. Check Pinterest, Google, and social media for inspiration.

If you’re ready to give your new blog a polished, professional look, Slay Your Selfies walks you through exactly how to take colourful, engaging photos using nothing more than your phone. It’s ideal for your About page, blog posts, Pinterest graphics and social media – a simple way to elevate your visuals from day one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Start a Blog

• Uploading giant, uncompressed images
• Using too many plugins (slows down your site)
• Choosing a slow, bloated theme
• Ignoring mobile design
• Overthinking your niche
• Writing walls of text with no headings or images
• Not using your face anywhere on your blog
• Not building an email list from day one
• Waiting for “perfect” before you publish
• Giving up too soon (SEO takes time!)

Tools Recap: Everything You Need to Start a Blog

Hosting: BigScoots

Theme: Kadence

Child themes: Restored 316

Alternative: Thrive Themes

SEO plugin: Yoast SEO

Analytics: Google Analytics (via Site Kit)

Search Console: Google Search Console (via Site Kit)

Image compression: TinyPNG, ShortPixel, Imagify

Social sharing/email sign-ups: Grow by Mediavine

Online store: WooCommerce

Final Thoughts: You’re Ready to Start Your Blog!!

Congrats! You’ve just learned how to build a whole website and saved yourself around $3000 in website design fees – amazing!

You took action. You learned new skills. You stretched your comfort zone.

I know it’s a lot – but you built something that supports your business and your personal brand!

And now you’re ready for the next chapter.

A blog with your face on it. Your ideas. Your personality. Your voice. Your photos. Your authority.

If you want help taking photos to share on your new blog that you actually love – the kind that build trust and make readers remember you – my course Slay Your Selfies will guide you step by step.

With warmth. With clarity. With zero judgement. And no fancy equipment required.

Your blog is only the beginning.

You’re building a brand. And you’re doing it brilliantly.

Ready to start your blog? Pin this post and save it for later!