Requirement 8
Requirement
Photography
Photography Careers
Identify three career opportunities in photography. Pick one and explain to your counselor how to prepare for such a career. Discuss what education and training are required, and why this profession might interest you.
Photography Career Opportunities
Photography is more than just a hobby—it can also be a rewarding and exciting career. Professional photographers use their skills to tell stories, capture important moments, promote products, document history, and express creativity in powerful ways. They are not only taking pictures and making money—in fact, they are recording, documenting, and capturing people and events, creating memories that will last for eternity.
There are many different career paths in photography, each with its own style, work environment, and training requirements. Exploring these careers will help you understand how your interest in photography today could turn into a profession in the future—and what steps you would need to take to prepare for it.
Portrait Photographer
A portrait photographer specializes in taking photos of people—from families and seniors to school photos andprofessional headshots. This career is exciting because you get to capture personality, emotion, and important life moments. Training can include photography classes, online courses, and hands-on practice with studio lighting.
Sports Photographer
A sports photographer captures fast-moving action at games, races, and athletic competitions. This career is thrilling because you work on the sidelines of exciting events and freeze amazing moments in time. Most sports photographers learn through photography programs, internships, and years of shooting live events.
Wildlife Photographer
A wildlife photographer documents animals in their natural environment. This is exciting because it combines photography, adventure, travel, and patience in the outdoors. Training usually includes photography education plus knowledge of biology, ecosystems, and outdoor survival skills.
Photojournalist
A photojournalist tells real-world stories through powerful photographs for news outlets and magazines. This career is exciting because you document history as it happens and share important stories with the world. Education often includes journalism or communications degrees along with photography training.
Wedding Photographer
A wedding photographer captures one of the most important days in a couple’s life. This career is exciting because every wedding is unique, emotional, and fast-paced. Training usually comes from photography courses, assisting experienced photographers, and real-world event practice.
Commercial Photographer
A commercial photographer creates images for advertising, marketing, and businesses. This career is exciting because your photos help sell products, build brands, and appear in ads and websites. Training includes photography education, business skills, and experience working with clients and studios.
Nature & Landscape Photographer
A landscape photographer captures outdoor scenes such as mountains, forests, sunsets, and national parks. This career is exciting because it allows you to travel and work in beautiful natural locations. Training usually includes photography education and extensive field practice in different environments.
Drone Photographer
A drone photographer uses unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to capture images from the sky. This career is exciting because it provides unique perspectives that traditional cameras cannot reach. Training includes photography knowledge plus FAA drone certification and flight safety training.
Forensic Photographer
A forensic photographer documents crime scenes and evidence for law enforcement. This career is exciting because your images help solve crimes and serve as legal evidence in court. Training often includes criminal justice education plus specialized forensic photography instruction.
Social Media & Content Photographer
A content photographer creates images specifically for social media platforms, influencers, and brands. This career is exciting because your images reach large audiences instantly and influence online trends. Training often includes photography education, marketing knowledge, and experience using digital platforms.
Additional Information on Careers in Photography
Additional Information on Careers in Photography
Learn more about salaries, required education, and job openings around the country at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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