Pictures are worth a thousand words. Each photo has its own story to tell - a memory inscribed to it. It makes an intangible moment tangible. Due to the appeal of pictures, many people are engaging in photography - whether as a hobby or a professional career. For professional photographers, how to find a job is never a question, because there are several career options out there. But before starting a career, it is important to have a clear understanding that photography is not only an art but science.
Yes, taking pictures is an art – the scenery, the elements and their interaction.
Picture-taking has always been viewed as an art and the photographer as an artist making his “creation”. However, it is also a science, as it requires a certain amount of skills and knowledge to make a beautiful picture. Breath-taking pictures are not captured by talent alone, but by skills as well. Being able to pursue a photography career will require knowledge of two things - the skills and the equipment.
The Skills
There are two ways to gain the skills necessary for a photography career - by studying in a school of photography, or by apprenticeship under a professional photographer.
- Photography School
There are several schools which offer professional courses in photography. These courses teach most of the basic knowledge that one needs to learn like angle shots, proper lighting, and the appropriate equipments to be used. Aside from the basics, more advanced courses are available to develop one’s skills. Now, one may ask how to find a job training experience under a photography school. Not to worry, though, as these schools have tie-ups with different companies and institutions which will help expose students to the industry.
- Apprenticeship
Although not formal education, this method of gaining skills is acceptable. Many people would rather learn this way because of its advantages - no more waiting for years to complete a course; no classroom settings; just pure work experience. Moreover, it does not require a costly tuition fee and could even allow one to earn while learning. Apprenticeship exposes one to several career options in photography. However, it is not easy to find a photographer who would accept an apprentice. Aside from that, the basics are not taught as well, thus, entering as an apprentice would require one to have some background skills on photography.
Photography Equipment
There are two basic things which one would need to have in order to jumpstart his/her photography career: a studio and a camera.
- Camera
The world of photography is nothing without a good, reliable camera. Professionals do not use ordinary cameras for their work; they often use advanced camera models, types, and brands available in the market. There are different cameras depending on the type of shot needed, but for starters, a high definition DSLR with the basic lens is recommended.
As one progresses with his career, he could also try to venture with different kinds of lenses that produce different perspectives, and which cater to different demands. Through these, a photographer will be able to take pictures more creatively, helping define his artistic signature.
- Studio
Lastly, a studio is often necessary. A photographic studio is a workplace and studio in one. It is a studio because most corporate and professional shots are taken here. Studios need to be spacious to accommodate a set-up space, a dressing room and maybe even a make-up room. It is a photographer’s creative workspace as well as his workplace, because this is also where the photos are developed and edited.
These are only the basics of how to find a job in the photography industry. In the long run, being successful in photography, just like in any field, depends on one’s determination and perseverance.
