subject: Photography Job Description [print this page] Meeting and negotiating with clients Meeting and negotiating with clients
Translating a client's needs and objectives into a successful photograph
Setting up a photoshoot, including renting space, hiring models or assistants, and getting equipment
Editing, retouching, and processing photographs
Processing and printing photographs
Staying up-to-date on the latest camera, imaging, and photoediting technologies
Advertising, promoting, and networking to constantly attract new clients
Once you steer away from categorizing photographers by what they specialize in, you'll see that there are two general types: freelancers and those who work in a larger photography company. Most recent photography school graduates choose to take the latter route, and this choice does in fact hold a certain security. With an established company, your job will consist of more photography and less administrative work, which will typically be handled by someone else. In addition, working within a successful photography firm will give you the chance to learn from more experienced photographers. By watching the way your seniors handle their assignments or how your boss juggles finances and talks to potential customers, you can observe a great deal about the inner workings of the industry. As you collaborate with other photographers and discuss projects with clients, you'll also be building valuable connections that help secure your reputation in the field.
So it's not surprising that many photographers choose to either go freelance or open up their own photography firm only after a few years of experience in another company. It's a risky step to start off independently without established contacts in the photography industry, though some manage to make it through a combination of luck, talent, and charisma. Working freelance makes a photographer's schedule more flexible, and assignments can be chosen at will. However, a larger proportion of time will be spent taking care of small tasks such as equipment maintenance, client calls, and travel management. The administrative work is even more taxing if you choose to head your own firm and run a team of photographers capable of taking on huge projects.
Wherever your particular photography niche lies, ultimately, it comes down to three things: you, the camera in your hands, and what you want to capture. If you have a passion for this combination and the ability to handle the tasks required of a professional photography, then begin working toward that goal!
