What is a Photographer?

Photographers take pictures for a variety of reasons and uses; their photographs might be taken for weddings or family portraits, or they may even be hired to photograph the celebrities and stars! They use a range of technical equipment including digital cameras, specialist lighting equipment, and computer programs to achieve a desired result. Working as a photographer is a highly competitive job, and many work freelance – meaning that they are their own boss and work with their own clients. They may also work with lab teams who are in charge of photo editing before printing takes place. Photographers may work locally, nationally or may travel abroad for certain clients. Working hours may be fixed if you are employed by a photography company for example 9am – 5pm, but depending on the clients needs, photographers more often than not have to be flexible workers – especially if they work freelance.

What personal qualities and skills are best suited to this industry?

Two important qualities are creativity and a good eye for detail. Technical ability is an obvious skill, as you will have to know how to use photography equipment, such as a digital camera and lighting props, to suit the job at hand. If you are photographing people, then people skills are important – such as putting people at ease if they feel uncomfortable having their photo taken. If you are a freelance or self-employed photographer then it is important to have good business skills too – you will have to sell yourself to possible clients and prove that you are the best person for the job and their needs!

What kind of money can I earn?

Pay rates very depending on the type of photography you are involved with and whether they are employed or self-employed. Photographers earn in the range of £14,500 - £17,000 a year, rising to around £21,500 - £27,000. Higher earners can make around £39,000 a year. Some self-employed photographers can earn up to £80,000 per year. Photographers' assistants earn in the range of £200 - £350 a week.

Qualifications

Although some photographers may have no qualifications in photography, some employers require some form of qualification. This may be achieved in full or part-time courses at college or university leading to National Certificates (NCs), National Qualifications (NQs), Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and degrees. Some colleges offer the Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE) of the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP). These courses also have exam result requirements so achieving the best exam results you can in high school will show you which course might be most suitable for you to kick start your career in photography !