Film & Photography Careers

What does a photographer do?

A photographer captures images of people, places and things on film in an appealing way. A photographer usually uses his or her own cameras and equipment. Photographers can work in a freelance capacity or work with an established company. There are many different types of photographers. Below are descriptions for some of the different types of photographers and photography careers.  Find out more about how to become a photographer or videographer.

What types of photography are there?

- Family Photographer
A family photographer takes pictures of families, children or individuals in a studio, outdoors, or in the client’s home.

- Nature Photographer
This photographer goes out into nature to take pictures of animals and scenery. These pictures can be used for a variety of purposes including art, stationery, or print materials.

- Photojournalism
Photojournalists capture images to be used for news media. This type of photographer is usually on call to go to any type of event.

- School Photographer
This type of photographer travels from school to school taking school pictures.

- Sport Photographer
A sport photographer sits on the sidelines down by the action of sporting events to capture game changing plays. These photographs may be used in news media. This type of photographer can work at various levels of sports including high school sports, college athletics, or professional games.

- Studio Photographer
A studio photographer works in the studio to photograph models or products.

- Travel Photographer
This photographer travels all over the world to capture the most amazing pictures of faraway places.

- Wedding Photographer
This type of photographer goes to weddings to capture all the special moments of the day. This type of photographer may also do engagement photos with the couple prior to the wedding.

What education is suggested for a career in photography?
While some photographers have a high school diploma, most professional photographers study film or photography in college and receive a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or even go on to earn a master’s degree in fine arts. Becoming an intern or apprentice with an established photographer will help with training. A background in business is useful if the photographer works in a freelance capacity. Freelance photographers will essentially have their own business, and in a competitive field, it is important to have every edge. Psychology can also be useful when photographing for marketing purposes.

Since many photographers work on a freelance basis, there is a wide range in what a photographer is paid. Photographers are always in demand since people want their moments to be captured, however this does create some competition in the field.

See arts and design careers or interior design careers for additional information on related careers.

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The salary range for Film & Photography begins around $16,290 and usually tops out around $62,430, with a mean in the neighborhood of $39,360. This is about 10% lower than the national average for annual salaries.

In order to qualify for most Film & Photography positions, you typically need to have a Bachelor's Degree or higher.

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The growth outlook for Film & Photography careers is estimated at about 12% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Film & Photography jobs are expected to grow at a 19% higher rate than the national average for annual salaries.