Skip to content
Back to Career Guides
Photographer
Art and humanities

How to become a Photographer

What does a Photographer do?

Overly attached to your camera? Want to turn your passion into your profession? Then becoming a photographer could be the perfect career move for you.

Being a photographer involves taking a variety of different images, either for aesthetic or commercial purposes. Whether it’s putting your own spin on a subject or simply capturing the moment, photography is essential for many different companies ranging from print publications such as magazines and editorials, to online resources for use on various websites.

Although the role of a photographer will vary, duties will usually include the following:

  • Using a range of cameras and lenses
  • Developing and editing your images
  • Liaising with clients to meet their needs
  • Networking
  • Visiting different locations
  • Using appropriate lighting equipment

Is a career as a Photographer right for me?

The most important role of a photographer is to be passionate about what you’re doing*. Often it’s a job based on your creative flare, so don’t be afraid to make a statement with your photographic style.

Photographers have to work under pressure and normally to a tight time scale, therefore it is essential to be well organised and efficient with your work.

Other key skills include:

  • Excellent organisational and planning skills
  • Meticulous attention to detail
  • The ability to stay calm under pressure
  • A proactive attitude
  • Self-discipline, and the ability to market your own work

*N.B. Posting 'selfies' on Instagram may not count.

Explore your opportunities

People also search for

Photography (1,022)
Photography (1,022)
Graphic design (1,215)
Digital Design (20,356)

Career progression and salary expectations for a Photographer

1

Photographer

| Up to £28,000

Get qualified as a Photographer

Whether you want to develop your photography skills or further your career, photography courses are a great way to expand your portfolio and take your career to the next level.

Recommended Photography courses

  • Diploma in Photography with Adobe Photoshop & Graphic Design Skills

    Thames College
    Level 7 QLS Endorsed Course | 2 Free Courses included as Gifts | Instant Access
    • 117 students
    • Online
    • 20 hours · Self-paced
    • 150 CPD points
    • Tutor support
    Great service
    Popular
    Trending
    ►►► The Must-Have Photography with Adobe Photoshop & Graphic Design is Live Now! Hurry Up before the time runs out ◄◄◄ Have you ever wondered how great photographers manage to capture that perfect shot, where every detail, colour, and texture comes to life? Could you become o …
    Save 14%
    £12 £14

  • Video Editing: Become a Visual Storyteller with Photography & Adobe Photoshop Courses

    Janets
    14 Courses Bundle | CPD Certified | 140 CPD Points | Free PDF & Hardcopy Certificates | Tutor Support | Lifetime Access
    • 11 students
    • Online
    • 44 hours · Self-paced
    • Certificate(s) included
    • 140 CPD points
    • Tutor support
    Great service
    Journey through the vibrant tapestry of the digital visual industry! The UK’s multimedia domain is booming, with a 15% increase in digital visual content demand in just the last year. This Video Editing with Photography & Adobe Photoshop Courses will propel you into this flou …
    Save 17%
    £65 £79

What's it like to be a Photographer?

"I got into photography while studying at university, and at first I was simply pursuing my interests. Essentially, it was an outlet for my emotions. But now I’ve turned it into a career, starting off as a photographer’s assistant and, after learning the basics, I decided to start freelancing. Now I’m my own boss and really look forward to going to work every day."

Photographer jobs

All Photographer jobs
Need Advice? Ask our virtual career advisor