Making a living as a photographer is not easy.By taking photos and starting your own projects, you can begin to create your online portfolio.It is important that your portfolio is easy to navigate.Once your portfolio is set up, you can use job search sites and networks to find jobs.
Step 1: Purchase all the gear you need.
Purchase an entry-level DSLR camera if you are just starting out.You will need a tripod and a 50mm prime lens for your camera.Make sure to invest in an external flash for lighting.You can develop your camera skills by buying a camera that is a step above entry-level.Don't buy brand new materials if you are on a budget.
Step 2: Make sure to take as many photos as possible.
Bring your camera with you.Take photos whenever you feel inspired.Make weekend plans to shoot specific destinations or take pictures of people.This is a great way to learn how to use your camera.A variety of scenes can be found at the beach, park, or city centre.
Step 3: There are small photography projects.
You can complete a couple projects in 1 to 2 months.You can use the style of photography that you want to specialize in.It's important to see your projects through to the end.It shows commitment and passion.If you are interested in portraiture, take portraits of your family or people who inspire you.If you love nature and photography, you can take pictures at a local park.
Step 4: Learn how to use a photo editing program.
Purchase books from your local bookstore if you want to learn on your own.You can take a course at a local community college.There are graphic design courses that teach in software.Many photography jobs require applicants to have a basic knowledge of the program.
Step 5: There are different types of photography careers.
Product, medical, and wedding photography are some of the more lucrative careers in photography.School or wedding photographers are some of the more stable careers.A career in sports, fashion, or stock photography is possible.A degree or formal training is not required for some career paths, like wedding photography.
Step 6: If you want an internship, apply.
Local newspapers and magazines may offer internship opportunities.You can contact local photography organizations or galleries in your area.If you're interested in photography that interests you, look for work that could teach you some of the skills.
Step 7: Apply for an assistant job.
Professional photographers need assistants to help them carry and set up their equipment.They need help with the business side of photography, like keeping track of contracts and payments.You can find assistant jobs on job search sites.As an assistant, you can learn a lot about being a photographer, from taking pictures to handling business.If you want to become a wedding photographer, you should get a job assisting the wedding planner.They will show you how it's done at weddings.
Step 8: You can get an associate or bachelor's degree in the arts.
Although a degree isn't required to get a photography job, it may give you an edge.There are art programs at local colleges and universities.You can ask for a list of courses.If you think a degree is worthwhile, apply.If you decide that an associate's degree isn't worth it, check out photography workshops.
Step 9: An online platform can be used to build a portfolio.
A portfolio-building site that is easy to use has a variety of templates to choose from.Pick sites that allow you to get more traffic to your site.You can connect your portfolio to your social media accounts with some sites.You have to pay an annual or monthly fee to use these websites.You can try some websites for a while to see if you like them.Portfolio-building websites that are popular include PhotoShelter, Orosso, Foliolink, and 1X.
Step 10: Make your website design easy to understand.
Pick templates that are easy to use.The template should highlight your work.Don't use templates that have too many functions, colors, or designs that take away from the quality of your work.A simple black and white template can be used.
Step 11: Put your best work out there.
Quality is more important than quantity.There are photos that show your photography skills.Pick photos that reflect the type of work you want to do, whether it is wedding or product photography.When clients don't have time to look through every photo, place your best photos in the beginning of the gallery.High-quality images are published as opposed to low- quality images.
Step 12: Your work should be organized.
organize your work by project if you have worked on multiple projects.Black and white, portraits, and landscape are some of the themes you could organize your work by.Make sure that your work is easy to access for your clients.
Step 13: A 1 to 2 sentence description is required for each photo.
If applicable, write the model's name, the location of the shot, and the company you shot the image for.You can give any other information that you think is relevant.When browsing your images, give your clients a brief description.
Step 14: A contact page is needed.
The contact page has your name, phone number, and email on it.Link your social media accounts to showcase your work.Interested clients will be able to contact you easily.You can also include a page about me on your website.Write 2 to 3 paragraphs about your background, how you become interested in photography, and your photography experience.
Step 15: Search for jobs on the internet.
Employers and clients use job search sites to find work.Read the job description.You have to apply for the positions you qualify for.There are positions like an assistant photographer and a freelance photographer.
Step 16: There are job ads in newspapers and magazines.
There are job advertisements in newspapers and specialty magazines.Email the companies if you want to inquire about the position.Send the company an email with a link to your online portfolio if you qualify for the position.Follow up on your application if you don't hear back from a job within a week.
Step 17: Networking events are a great place to meet other people.
You need to attend as many events as possible to get noticed.Business cards are handed out to people.5 to 7 days after the event, you can call or email.Discuss your work and career goals with them at lunch or after-work drinks.Find out about events through MeetUp, artist groups, business groups and your Chamber of Commerce website.