How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- photography
- art and design
- photography, video and digital imaging
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 do a college course to learn some of the skills you need in this job. Courses include:
- photography
- art and design - photography option
- creative digital media
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Photographer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship to get into this role.
This apprenticeship takes between 1 and 2 years to complete, and is a mix of training in the workplace and off-the-job study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 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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Direct Application
You could apply directly to companies to work as a photographic technician. You'll need to be well organised, able to use image editing software and have a keen interest in photography.
Some employers may prefer you to have GCSEs, A levels or equivalent qualifications in a subject like photography, desktop publishing or art and design.
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Career tips
You could contact photo labs, professional photographers, picture libraries, museums and educational institutions for potential job opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in photography from The Association of Photographers.