What Does A Photographer Do?
Photographers create and preserve images that capture a moment, tell a story or document an event. They use professional equipment, creativity, and technical know-how to produce quality photographs.
Photographers select particular subjects to generate a specific effect and choose the right camera and other tools to create a desired image. They use different angles, lighting (natural or artificial), exposures and backgrounds to achieve the goal of the photograph. They can draw attention to or away from certain aspects of the image by using different lenses, filters, and distances. They also use a variety of flash attachments and tripods to create different moods or feelings.
Most photographers today use digital cameras instead of traditional film. Some photographers use both types, depending on the situation. Digital photographs allow photographers to edit them quickly and easily on a computer. Film from traditional cameras is often sent to a laboratory for processing, but some photographers have their own darkrooms in which to develop the film themselves. Photographers specialize in specific areas such as commercial portraiture, journalism, scientific, nature, or industrial photography. Click here to learn how to become a photographer.
What Kind Of Training Does A Photographer Need?
To pursue positions in industrial or scientific photography or photojournalism, a college degree in photography or other related area is usually required. Many photographers begin as assistants to experienced photographers to gain the necessary technical knowledge and skills. Most photographers freelance — meaning that they are paid by the job or photo, and not directly employed by a company. Freelance photographers are sometimes self-taught, have received informal photographic training or have entered photography internships from a degree program.
Photographers also need to have good hand-eye coordination, be detail oriented and accurate. They should have a strong technical knowledge of photographic process and fundamentals, creativity, imagination and an eye for composition. They also need to know how to use computer and software to edit and prepare photographs for clients. Click here to find your path to a photography career.
What Are The Prospects For A Career In Photography?
Opportunities for jobs in photography are projected to increase about as fast as average for all professions through the year 2016, increasing 10% from 122,000 jobs in 2006 to more than 134,000 jobs. (1) Self-employed photographers, including those in freelance photography jobs, make up more than 50% of all photography careers. Click here for a list of online photography degree programs.
Since photography is an appealing field, competition is expected. Photographers with formal education, significant work experience, and distinctive talents and skills can expect the best job prospects. A computer or electronic background can also improve job opportunities.
How Much Do Photographers Make?
Currently, the average entry-level photographer salary ranges between $42,368 and $62,996. The highest 10% earn over $71,000. (2) Freelance photographer salaries are generally quite varied, depending on the discipline and how many photographs are sold.
A photography careers are a great choice for people who have artistic talent and can capture meaningful images. Photographers must have good communication skills, adjustable schedules, and a great deal of patience. They often have to work in undesirable conditions and they must be able to adapt to the needs and requirements of their clients. Click here to get a list of programs to get your degree in photography online.