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How to become a Photographer

Photographer jobs

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Photographer courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Photographer

Photographer

| Up to £28,000

The role of 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.

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."

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

Photography MA (Online)

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Become an accomplished and innovative image maker. Push your practice in bold and experimental directions on Falmouth’s online Photography master’s course. Supported by award-winning lecturers and working with diverse peers from across the globe, you will enhance your critical th …
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The global photography industry is expanding rapidly, with the digital photography market expected to surpass £100 billion by 2030, driven by social media, e-commerce, and creative industries. In the UK, freelance photography, wedding shoots, and content creation have surged …
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