Photographer

Photographers take pictures for a variety of uses. They use a range of technical equipment to achieve the effect they require. Photography is a competitive occupation and many photographers work freelance.

Work activities

There are many different types of photographer, including:

Portrait: Taking photographs of people, from new-born babies to adults, for a variety of occasions.
Property: Photographing people’s property, so that they can advertise it in shop windows, brochures and on websites.
Medical: Produce photographs for patient care, medical education and medical research.
Wedding: Taking photographs that capture the big day for the happy couple.
Fashion: Taking photos of clothes and related accessories, which are used in advertising.
Press: Taking pictures for publication by local, regional and national newspapers, magazines, websites and news agencies. Some press photographers specialise in a particular area of press photography, such as sports, music, business or commercial.

Whatever type of photograph is being taken, photographers use their skills and knowledge to produce an image that records a moment in time. The activities undertaken by each photographer vary greatly depending on the area that they specialise in. Something that all professional photographers have in common is the technical equipment that they use. This could include digital cameras computer imaging software specialist lighting equipment. Once a photo has been taken, photographers use computer imaging software to check image quality as well as retouch and edit the photos.

Some photographers travel locally, nationally and even (particularly for fashion photographers) overseas. This may involve spending periods of time away from home.

Personal qualities and skills

As a photographer, you need:

Technical and creative ability.
Knowledge of photography techniques.
The ability to use a wide range of cameras and lenses.
To keep up to date with changing technology.
The ability to work to deadlines.
An eye for detail, shape, colour and form.
Good communication skills.
Knowledge of computer imaging software and digital technology.
Good organisational skills.

Different areas of photography require different qualities and skills, for example:

Medical photographers need an interest in science and medicine.
Fashion photographers need an awareness of fashion trends.
Press photographers need to be aware of what makes a newsworthy picture.
Self-employed or freelance photographers will need business and marketing skills. A driving licence is useful.

Pay and opportunities

Pay rates for photographers vary depending on the type of photography they do, the sector of photography they work in, and whether they are employed or self-employed. Established photographers can expect to earn in the range of £17,250 - £45,000 a year.

Working hours can vary. Some photographers work regular office hours, usually over a 37-hour week, Monday to Friday. Many though work irregular hours, which may include early starts, late finishes and work at weekends and on public holidays. Freelance photographers can choose their own working hours, although this may depend on client needs.

Different areas of photography have their own employment opportunities. For example, scientific and industrial/commercial photographers find work in the Civil Service, universities, museums and industry. Medical photographers work for hospitals, medical schools and research establishments. Opportunities for photographers occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

While some companies and organisations offer permanent employment, most photographers are self-employed and work on a contract or freelance basis.

What’s happening in this work area?

Competition for photographer posts is strong, as there are often more applicants than vacancies.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in photography, advertising and design trade magazines and on websites such as the Association of Photographers (AOP). Vacancies are also advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

It’s a good idea to build up a network of relevant contacts, as not all photography jobs are advertised. Making speculative job applications to potential employers can be useful.

Entry routes and training

Many potential photographers learn about the industry is by becoming either a full-time or freelance photographic assistant, although there is a lot of competition for these posts. Alternatively, you can enter the industry by doing a course in photography. Full-time and part-time courses are available, leading to foundation degrees, HNCs, HNDs or degrees in photography.

Relevant apprenticeship programmes include:

Photographic assistant (level 3 / advanced)
Photographer (level 4 / higher)
Clinical photographer (level 7 / degree)

The British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) – the official qualifying body for professional photography – can provide information on training courses and membership.

Training is on-the-job. The Association of Photographers (AOP) offers training and networking opportunities. City & Guilds also offers qualifications in photography.

Photographers may be able to move to larger organisations or work overseas. Many photographers become self-employed.

Qualifications

You don’t always need qualifications to enter photography. However, some employers prefer you to have them.

For entry to a relevant degree course, the usual requirement is:

Two to three A-levels. Some courses may ask for passes in art and in photography.
Four to five GCSEs at grades 9-4. You’ll usually need English and maths.

Alternatives to A-levels include:

A BTEC level 3 National Diploma in art and design.
An advanced apprenticeship.
International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

To get onto an advanced apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in English and maths, although you may be able to complete these alongside your programme. For a higher or degree apprenticeship, you’ll need two A-levels as well as GCSEs.

For all relevant courses, having a portfolio of your photographic work will be very useful.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

This is an extremely competitive field. Relevant skills and/or qualifications are usually preferred. Some people start out as employed or freelance assistants. You will need a portfolio of photographic work to enter courses and employment.

Related careers

Photographic assistant
Picture researcher