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Photographer
Most professional photographers specialise in one area, eg fine art, fashion, advertising, editorial or social photography, and are often categorized based on the subjects they photograph.
It is important for a photographer to have natural sense of design and composition, and to be observant.
Around half of all professional photographers are self-employed; the remainder work for a wide range of employers, including creative businesses, publishers, other photographers, or in the education or public sector.
Work activities will vary according to specialisation. However, common activities for most photographers include:
- working with clients to discuss what sort of images they require and how they want to use them
- Looking for appropriate photographic subjects and opportunities
- carrying out research and preparation for a shoot;
- working in different locations, and in different circumstance
- using an extensive range of technical equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting and IT software;
- communicating with their subjects: putting them at ease, encouraging them and directing them;
- arranging still life objects, products, scenes, props and backgrounds;
- liaising with other professionals within their specialist area of work, eg graphic designers, writers, gallery managers or art directors;
- following up the processing and use of images, discussing technical problems,
- checking for quality and dealing with clients' concerns;
- understanding traditional film and digital photography and keeping abreast of industry trends and developments and new techniques;
- developing expertise with software to enhance images, change emphasis, crop pictures, move objects, etc;
- managing the business aspects of the work, eg administration, booking work, invoicing and basic accounting;
- looking for new business and self-promotion opportunities by developing a good portfolio,
- building a network of contacts, and achieving a reputation for quality and reliability.
If you start as a photographer's assistant – and many graduates do – a great deal of your time will be spent on routine administration and helping out generally around the studio.
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Photographer |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
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Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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