How to become a photographer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- photography
- visual arts
- commercial photography
- art and design
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a college course such as:
- Level 2 Certificate in Photography
- A Level Photography
- Level 3 Diploma in Photography
These may help you to find a job as a photographer's assistant in a studio.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and a creative subject
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship to get into this role, for example:
- Photographic Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Photographer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships take around 1 year and 6 months to complete, and are a mix of learning in the workplace and off-the-job study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a photographer's assistant and work your way up. It's normal to specialise in one kind of photography, like fashion, advertising, wildlife or photojournalism.
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Career tips
You'll need a portfolio of your work to show your skills, interests and experience in photography. It'll also help you to get noticed if you post examples of your work online.
Professional and industry bodies
The Association of Photographers offers membership for anyone with an interest in professional photography.
You can also apply to join the British Institute of Professional Photography.
Further information
You can get more details on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.