How to make a career in Photography?

The profession of photography requires a lot of creativity and understanding of technical aspects. While some photographers use digital cameras others still shoot on traditional cameras and develop photos in a dark room. There are many areas where a photographer can specialize such as commercial, industrial, news, fine arts, scientific, or portrait. The photographer may also need to travel and the nature of job may be competitive.

What are the requirements for making a career in photography?

You don’t require a specific educational background for making a career in photography; however, some people pursue a bachelor’s degree in photography to improve their chances of employment. One doesn’t need any experience to enter the profession and the photographers can develop their portfolios over the period of time which enhances their job prospects. For becoming a successful photographer, you need artistic ability, attention to detail, customer service skills, interpersonal skills, familiarity with photo-editing software, along with expertise in operating both digital and traditional cameras.

Here’s a look at steps to become a photographer:

1. Get a bachelor’s degree

The first step that leads you towards completion of your dream is to gain a bachelor’s degree. Though not compulsory, some photographers such as photojournalists, scientific photographers, and industrial photographers need to have a degree in Top Photography Colleges.

Tips

– Develop your portfolio showcasing a selection of your work as it serves as a marketing tool for aspiring photographers. Students should include their most impressive work in their portfolio.
– The next essential is to complete the internship for gaining experience. Interns can work at several firms in the last semester of their degree program.
– The students must build their technical skills considering the increasing use of digital cameras. Students must be familiar with technical software such as photo-editing software.
– The students should try to benefit from the school facilities as much as possible. These facilities include digital laboratories, galleries, and darkrooms.

2. Work experience

The next step to make your career as a photographer is gaining work experience. You can begin your career by assisting an established photographer and develop technical skills as well as get acquainted with potential clients. It is recommended to network with other experienced and established photographers. As a beginner you need opportunities to make newer connections by joining the camera club or an online community. You can also think about getting additional education as strong business skills can help in achieving success. Business classes will help you in preparing business plan and financial accounting. Photographers can take classes to remain abreast of latest happenings in the industry.

3. Work on contractual basis or as a freelancer

Many companies hire photographers that work on contractual basis or as a freelancer. Thus, photographers should make an impressive portfolio. With more experience come more opportunities to advance in career and work for prominent companies and brands in the market. Later on, the photographers can begin their own business and benefit from the experience they gained with various companies and projects.
Keeping these tips in mind, any aspirant can shape up a successful career for themselves.