What Does a Photographer Do?
If you understand angles, love lighting, and have a knack for being in the right place at the right time, why not turn those talents of yours into a lucrative career? Here we will look at what professional photography is all about and why it might be right for you.
A Career in Photography
Photography is the art of capturing fleeting and significant moments, and doing so in a way that provides a sense of perspective, emotion and relevance. This not only requires the skilful use of a wide range of technical equipment, but also a whole lot of patience and a keen sense for when something special is about to happen.
The average day of a professional photographer can include meeting with clients, using photo-enhancing software or even just playing around with the latest online camera effects, not to mention spending time in the field taking those all-important images. Cleaning and maintaining equipment is also essential; after all, those lights, lenses and cameras must always be at their best.
To thrive in this highly creative industry the following skills and talents are required;
- Attention to detail
- Spatial awareness
- An understanding of lighting
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Creative thinking
- Ability to work independently
“In Australia, there are approximately 11,000 professional photographers currently plying their trade, the majority of whom work for private businesses, although an increasing number of photographers are now choosing to work on a freelance basis.”
What Qualifications do I Need?
Photography is one of the world’s most competitive industries, so even though formal training may not be mandatory, investing in a photography course or two is a wise move indeed. Aside from keeping up to date on the latest technology and techniques, the right qualifications can give you a sizeable edge on your competition.
Whether you take a Bachelor of Photography or a Diploma of Photo Imaging, look for programs that focus on the equipment, processes, and techniques that you will want and need most in your particular niche. Those thinking of starting their own photography business should also consider taking a course in the basics of business management.
Having a few well-placed connections always helps as well, so be sure to get acquainted with the following industry bodies;
- Australian Institute of Professional Photography
- Australian Photographic Society
- Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance
- Creative Industry Skills Council
Where Will my Career Take me?
A skilled photographer can take an amazing photo absolutely anywhere, so if you are looking for a career that you can travel with, this is it. You often won’t even need to speak the local language either, as this is a profession that is all about imagery.
In Australia, there are approximately 11,000 professional photographers currently plying their trade, the majority of whom work for private businesses, although an increasing number of photographers are now choosing to work on a freelance basis. Roughly a third of photography jobs in Australia are found in NSW, and the average salary sits at around $74,152 P/A.
The following are just a few of the many different types of photography you can specialise in;
- Sports Photography
- Fashion Photography
- Wedding Photography
- Science Photography
- Photo Journalism
- Aerial Photography
- Portrait Photography
- Food Photography
If all this talk about photography has you reaching for your nearest camera and itching to start snapping, you may well have found your calling. To ensure that you hit the ground running in your professional career, simply choose from the wide range of courses in photography available and get started today!