Kickstarting Your Journey in Photography
In the pre-pandemic era, in-house retail companies like Kodakit, Cozymeal, and Carvana were common employers for photographers, who would work on location to capture images [1]. Before embarking on such a career, it's essential to remember a few key principles. Arriving early to work and being respectful when working for another photographer are fundamental aspects of professionalism [2].
A well-focused portfolio is crucial for photographers to avoid appearing unfocused and immature. Having a presence on social media, particularly Instagram, can lead to opportunities, but the portfolio should contain keywords that the company is looking for [3].
Photographers should possess a diverse skill set, including knowledge of studio and location lighting gear, DSLR raw processing, HDR imaging, Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture One, and video production skills like 4k video editing, Premier Pro, and After Effects [4]. Understanding light and colour is more important than a mastery of drawing.
Common industries hiring photographers include government agencies, fashion, media, travel, wildlife, cruise lines, newspapers, advertising, and scientific research. Some companies and sectors actively looking for photographers are the United States Senate, cruise ship companies like Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises, newspapers, and real estate photography firms [5].
Upon completing a degree or certificate in photography, aspiring photographers may qualify for roles such as Photographer, Portrait Photographer, Commercial Photographer, Photojournalist, Travel Photographer, Wildlife Photographer, Fashion Photographer, Street Photographer, Scientific Photographer, Assistant Photo Manager, and Real Estate Photographer [2]. These roles often require skills in photo capture, lighting, digital editing, portfolio development, and sometimes video work. Salaries vary by specialization and region, but diploma holders in photography can expect entry-level salaries around 3 to 4 lakh INR per year in some fields, while specialized or government positions might pay significantly more [1][2].
Freelance opportunities are also common, especially in wedding photography, commercial gigs, and artistic freelance work [2]. Page layout, image editing, and colour management are key to a photographer's communications. Aspiring photographers should look for positions like Assistant, Second Shooter, or Freelance Photographer to gain experience [6].
It's helpful for photographers to understand video capture and specialized techniques like time lapse, HDR, High Speed Sync, and Cinemagraphs. Knowing how to bid for a job, securing permits, copyright, billing, and bidding, and taxes are basic photography business practices. Being a member of professional photography organizations like ASMP, PPA, AZPPA, and NPPA can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities [7].
Photographers must be able to provide portfolios in various formats: web site, interactive PDF, mobile portfolio site, print portfolio, self-published book, and solid marketing materials like business cards and postcards [8]. Pat Perigo, with over twenty years of experience in photography and print production in Phoenix and San Francisco, is an example of a professional who has mastered these skills [9].
Perigo has taught photography, design, and gallery management at the college level and trained staff in ADVO & Modern Color Printing. He emphasizes the importance of high speed sync with modern strobes and ambient light [10]. With these skills and principles in mind, a career in photography offers a wealth of opportunities for those with a passion for capturing the world through a lens.
References:
[1] Career Explorer
[2] Indeed
[3] Photography Institute
[4] Photography School
[5] Photography Masterclass
[6] Digital Photography School
[7] Professional Photographers of America
[8] American Society of Media Photographers
[9] Pat Perigo Photography
[10] Modern Color Printing
- Enhancing education and self-development in various areas of photography, such as studio and location lighting, digital editing, and video production skills, is crucial for career development in this field.
- A well-rounded learning approach in photography, including understanding light and color, skills in photo capture, portfolio development, and video work, can lead to diverse career opportunities, such as becoming a Photographer, Fashion Photographer, Travel Photographer, or Freelance Photographer.
