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What does a photographer do?

Professional photographers are often responsible for capturing high-quality photos, setting up photography scenes and lighting, and verifying the subjects’ aesthetics before beginning a shoot. Photographers often edit and retouch images to get the desired results.

Photographers may be involved in industries such as modeling, wedding planning, real estate, industrial design, photojournalism, 3-D animation, and more. They may work in a variety of work environments, including establishing their own studios, freelancing for other photographers, and working with businesses.

What skills do I need to become a freelance photographer?

No degree is required to become a freelance photographer, but potential clients are most comfortable working with a freelance photographer who has a college degree, like a bachelor’s degree in photography, graphic design, fine arts, or a related field. The education you’ll receive when earning a degree will help you to learn about and explore the different types of photography and techniques you may need during your career. This is also where you’ll learn about lighting, the basics of photo editing, and your camera settings, including shutter speed, depth of field, and more. You might also want to take photography classes to demonstrate that you’re continuing to develop your skills.

Many freelance photographers rely on their work history, testimonials, and social media to make money. Specific work experience in high-demand fields like digital photography, portrait photography, and wedding photography can help you to land more photography jobs. Don’t forget that it’s also important to put together a quality portfolio of your work.

Most photographers benefit from certain valuable skills:

• Creativity. Photography is a highly competitive field, but a creative and unique approach to the art can help your work to stand out.
• Attention to detail. Tiny details have major implications in photography. A photographer who pays attention to all of the details, from subject placement to lighting, can often get the best images.
• Marketing talents. Self-employed photographers are responsible for all of their marketing, so a knowledge of branding, social media marketing, and advertising can be very beneficial.
• An eye for design. Photographers need to choose backgrounds and compose photos so that they’re appealing, and an understanding of design helps them to do this successfully.
• Knowledge of photo-editing software. Photographers rely on software lik Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Lightroom, and they need to understand how to use the software well.
• Communication skills and interpersonal skills. Photographers who are clear communicators can help to ensure that their work meets their clients’ expectations. Interpersonal skills are particularly important for portrait photographers and photojournalists, who work closely with other people daily.

Should I get a freelance photographer certification?

Certifications in photography can help your photography career and help you stand out amongst the crowd. Certifications are available in multiple photography specializations:

• Certified Professional Photographer
• Certified Drone Photographer
• Certified Wedding Photographer

You don’t have to be certified to work as a freelance photographer, though clients may be willing to pay more for a photographer who carries one or more certifications.

What are the job responsibilities of a freelance photographer?

Job responsibilities for professional freelance photographers vary based on their specialization and work environment, but certain photographer duties are somewhat standard:

• Communicate with clients as photo sets and photo shoots are completed to ensure the themes and other aspects, such as photo angles and lighting, are on-point
• Monitor photo outputs to ensure equipment is functionally useful (clean lenses in case of smudging, apply protective equipment for scenes involving fluid, etc.)
• Edit and process photos to the client’s specifications.
• Develop or ship prints as-needed, based on contract terms.