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How to find a job as a Professional Photographer?

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Photography is a very creative field of work. It's a good career choice if you are into art & creativity. Photography is the art, application and practice of creating durable images by recording light, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or chemically by means of a light-sensitive material such as photographic film. 

Professional photography is an excellent career choice for anyone who wants to get paid for using their creative talents. It's one of the few fields where age and college degrees aren't as important as a good eye, a quality product, and self-discipline. Photography is a competitive field, so be prepared to start small. Then perfect your craft and build a portfolio of your best work.


Photo by Jamie Street

Here, in this blog post I will explain and give a detailed information with few tips and tricks on How to find a job as a Professional Photographer?  


Making a living as a photographer is as challenging as it is rewarding. By taking photos and starting your own projects, you can begin compiling photos to create your online portfolio. Make sure your portfolio is simple and easy to navigate. Once your portfolio is set up, browse job search sites and network like crazy to find jobs! So, let's get started.


Photo by freestocks


To make it easy, I have divided it into three parts: 

  1. Things to do before finding a job.
  2. Create your portfolio.
  3. Finding job.

  1. Things to do before finding a job.

  • Gain Experience & necessary skills.

If you are looking for a job as a Professional photographer you are no more a beginner. Before you start finding a job, you need to gain experience and necessary skills as a photographer because most of the clients will prefer a skilled and experienced photographer rather than a beginner or someone picking up a camera for the first time. 

  • Intern with a professional photographer.
You know you need experience to get hired as a professional photographer. So, what better way than actually working or doing an internship with a professional photographer in order to pick up few tips & tricks and have it in your resume. Doing an internship also has it's benefits such as, you can build your network even before you become a professional which will help you find a job easily.

  • Buy camera & necessary equipment.
If you are just starting out, buy an entry-level DSLR camera. In addition to the camera, you will need a tripod and a camera lens, like a 50mm prime lens. Lighting is also important, so make sure to invest in an external flash. Alternatively, buying a camera that is a step above entry-level will enable you to develop your camera skills. If you are on a budget, buy your materials used as opposed to brand new.

  • Learn Editing

You don't have to be a professional editor, you just need to able to do basice editing. It will help you give a good final results. Invest in a good editing software like Photoshop & Lightroom. Just remember never to over do it.

  • Choose your niche.

There are many different types of photography like product photography, portrait photography, wildlife photography, photojournalist, etc. You need to try different types of photography and decide which you love and good at it. Once you have decided, you need to keep practicing this will help you get to know what to do in different situations.

  • Get a certificate in photography or a degree in arts.
Having a certificate in photography or a degree in arts is not as necessary as those previous things but having it will help you get a career boost.  

2. Create your portfolio.

  • Building a portfolio.

You can build your portfolio through online portfolio-building sites or you can make you own personal photo book. I prefer making an online portfolio because it is easy to share and you don't have to keep making new copies every time you have to update. 

  • Publish your best work.

No one wants to see 100 picture's and waste there time. Only publish your best work, choose 1 best photo out of 10 photos. Go for quality over quantity. Publish the photos that exhibit your photography skills. Also pick photos that reflect the type of work you want to do, whether it is wedding or product photography.

  • Organize your work.

If you have worked on multiple projects, then organize your work by project. You can also organize your work by using using different themes, portraits and landscapes, etc. Make sure to organize your work in way that is easy and accessible for your clients. 

  • Write description for each photo.

Write the name of the company you shot the image for, the model’s name (if applicable), and the location of the shot. You can provide any other details that you think are relevant as well. A brief description will give your clients a little bit of context when browsing your images.

3. Finding Job.

  • Search for jobs on online job search sites.

There are many online job search sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Monster. Clients use this site to post available work. Read the job’s description. Apply for the positions you qualify for. Search for positions like “assistant photographer,” “freelance photographer,” “portrait photographer,” “social media photographer,” and others.

  • Use your network.

As I told you before, doing internships helps you build network. Use that network to find jobs. Start by asking your friends and families and after you land a job ask them to refer you, if they like what you do they will refer you to their friends, family's and colleagues. This is how you use your network to find a job.

  • Ads on Newspapers & Magazines.

Look for job advertisements near the back of newspapers and specialty magazines. Call or email the companies to inquire about the position. If you qualify for the position, send the company an email with a link to your online portfolio. If you do not hear back from a job within a week, then follow up on your application by emailing them again.

  • Attend events

Attend as many events as you can to get your name and work out. Handout business cards to people you make connections with. Call or email your connections 5 to 7 days after the event. Invite them to lunch or after-work drinks to discuss your work and career goals. Find out about events through MeetUp, artist groups, business groups, your Chamber of Commerce website.


This is it for this post. I hope you got what you were looking for. Thank you for giving your precious time. If you like what you see please share and comment. You can suggest me what should I post next in the comment section. Once again Thank You.


Related posts on Photography:

The Ultimate Guide - How to become a professional photographer?



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