Photographer

 

 

 

What is a photographer? 

Photographers take pictures for lots of different purposes such as for family portraits, fashion shoots, or even crime scenes. Photographers usually specialise in one area, such as newspapers, advertising or fashion.

What sort of tasks would I be doing?
 
  • Taking pictures
  • Choosing and preparing locations for photo shoots
  • Developing images
  • Working with employers to discuss the images they require and how they want to use them
  • Using lots of different equipment such as cameras, lenses, lighting and specialist software

What qualifications would I need?

Most photographers have completed a course in photography. Any of the following would be really helpful:

  • A level photography
  • City & Guilds levels 1, 2 and 3 in photography and photo imaging
  • BTEC ND photography
  • Diploma in creative and media
  • Diploma in foundation studies (art and design), with option to specialise in photography
  • BTEC HNC/HND in art and design (photography)
  • Foundation degrees and degrees in photography

You could think about doing an apprenticeship where you would study and gain work experience at the same time. If you don’t think you’re quite ready for that, think about doing Entry to Employment (e2e).

Some specific photographer roles require more specific qualifications:

  • The National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) endorses two training schemes for press photographers.
  • Medical photographers need a degree or a postgraduate certificate in clinical photography.
  • Forensic photographers usually need passes (A*-C) at GCSE including English and either science or maths, and one A level in a science subject.

Trade and professional associations, such as the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP), the Master Photographers Association (MPA) and the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) also run short courses.

Most photographers start as a photographer's assistant and gain experience and skills working on the job. Have a look in your local area for any professional photographers, even if they don't have a job vacancy at the moment, they may be able to offer you some work experience which would look fantastic on your CV.

 

Would I suit it?

Do you... 

  • enjoy being creative? 
  • have fun experimenting with colours, shapes, patterns?
  • feel able to be self-motivated?
  • like working with technology like computers?

If so, then working as a photographer would be perfect for you!

You should be aware that working as a photographer means hours can be long and unpredictable, and assignments can take you anywhere from a studio to a war zone. It can also be a hard profession to get into - but if it's what you really want to do, then don't let anything stop you!

Career Prospects

If you work for yourself, success very much depends on your reputation as a photographer so contacts within the industry are really helpful.

For photographers working for an employer there are usually few opportunities for promotion as photography departments tend to be small.

However a well respected photographer can earn a good salary whilst having a job they truly love.

Where can I go for more information?
 

Do you enjoy being creative and experimenting with colours, shapes and patterns?

 

 

Find out more about:

Skillset

Apprenticeships

Entry to Employment (e2e)

For more information about the industry have a look at:

The Association of Photographers

British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP)

The Master Photographers Association (MPA)

The Royal Photographic Society

The National Council for the Training of Journalists

 

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