How to become a photographer

Pathways to this career

1. Complete a photography course. Choose from undergraduate degrees, vocational certificates, mentorships and private courses.
2. Create and maintain a portfolio. This is your opportunity to showcase your skills, creativity and abilities. You will need a printed and digital portfolio whenever applying for work.
3. Promote yourself. Photography is competitive, so don't be backward in coming forward. Show off your style on social media; network with like-minded people, and reach potential clients by developing your own website to showcase your work.

What does a photographer do?

Being a photographer is about much more than snapping pictures. Some photographers freelance for magazines and newspapers, or they’re employed full-time with these companies. Others run their own studios. Photographers may specialise in certain types of photography such as photojournalism, commercial photography, or weddings.

Duties and tasks

• Capture and process images.
• Communicate with clients to truly understand their needs.
• Create final digital files or print images.
• Network and advertise to find new clients.
• Perform administrative jobs such as billing when necessary.
• Prep areas for photo shoots, disassemble these areas when finished.

Industry bodies

• Australian Institute of Professional Photography
• Media Entertainment & Arts Alliance
• The Creative Industry Skills Council

Related jobs

• Fashion Photographer
• Photographic Artist
• Photographic Processor
• Picture Framer
• Printmaker
• Sculptor
• Technical Photographer
• Visual Arts Painter