Photographers take and process pictures of people, places, products and events.
£17,250 Starter
to£45,000 Experienced
39 to 41 variable
evenings / weekends / bank holidays as customers demand
You can get into this job through:
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
You'll usually need:
You could take a Level 3 Diploma in Photography, which may help you to find a job as a photographer's assistant in a studio.
You'll usually need:
You could complete an advanced apprenticeship in photo imaging or creative and digital media.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a photographer's assistant and work your way up. It's usual to specialise in one kind of photography, like fashion, advertising, wildlife or photojournalism.
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.
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.
You can find out more about becoming a photographer through Creative Choices and the British Institute of Professional Photography.
You can get more details on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
You'll need:
Your daily tasks may include:
You could work in a creative studio.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and physically demanding.
Many photographers are freelance and you could do a mix of contract work and following your own interests. You could extend your range into other areas of photography like product, property, aerial or corporate work. With training, you could also work as a press or police photographer.
If you do specialist qualifications, you could find jobs in medical photography or illustration.
You may decide to become self-employed and set up your own business.
Photography is very competitive, so you'll need creativity and technical skills to make money. You'll also need finance for equipment, a space to work in, and some business and admin skills.
You could increase your income by selling your images independently.
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