Exploring Different Careers in Photography

With countless genres to choose from, careers in photography can open doors to a world of creativity and opportunity. Whether you’re drawn to portraits, fashion, wildlife, or commercial work, there’s a perfect niche for you.

Photography is so much more than just pointing a camera and snapping a picture—it’s an art form, a passion, and for many, a rewarding career.

This blog explores five exciting paths you could venture into as a professional photographer, while also providing guidance for those starting out.

Portrait Photography

Capturing the essence of an individual is no small feat, but that’s precisely what portrait photographers do. This genre focuses on creating images that highlight a person’s personality, emotions, and sometimes their story through a unique combination of lighting, composition, and environment.

What Does It Take?

Portrait photography requires patience, excellent people skills, and the ability to direct your subjects—not everyone is comfortable in front of a camera! Technical skills are just as essential, including understanding how to manipulate light and using editing software to refine the final image.

Portrait Photography Careers

• Freelance Photography: Many portrait photographers freelance, offering their skills for events like weddings or special family portraits.
• Studio Photographer: Working in a studio provides the opportunity for controlled lighting and backdrops, ideal for professional headshots or creative projects.
• Specialised Niches: Some take it even further, branching into maternity, newborn, or pet portrait photography.

If you’re considering this path, start by building a portfolio of friends, family, or local events to hone your skills and attract future clients.

Landscape Photographers

If you have a passion for the great outdoors and capturing breathtaking vistas, then landscape photography could be your calling. This genre involves taking photographs of natural or man-made scenery, from sweeping landscapes to close-up details.

What Does It Take?

Patience is often key in landscape photography as perfect lighting conditions can change in an instant. A keen eye for composition and understanding how to use different camera settings is also crucial.

Landscape Photography Careers

• Fine Art Prints: Many landscape photographers sell their work as fine art prints for display in homes or galleries.
• Tourism Industry: Tourist destinations often hire professional photographers to capture stunning images of their location for marketing purposes.
• National Geographic: For some, the ultimate goal is to become a photographer for prestigious publications like National Geographic.

If you’re interested in this path, start by exploring different locations and practicing your skills. It’s also helpful to have a strong online presence and network with other photographers in the industry.

Wedding Photography

Weddings are a momentous occasion, and capturing these special moments for couples is a highly sought after service. Wedding photographers must be skilled in documenting intimate moments while also being able to manage large groups of people.

What Does It Take?

In addition to technical skills, wedding photographers need excellent communication and organizational abilities to ensure everything runs smoothly on the big day. They also need to be adaptable and think quickly on their feet in case of any unexpected challenges.

Wedding Photography Careers

• Full-Time Photographer: Some wedding photographers work full-time for photography studios that specialize in weddings.
• Solo Business Owner: Others choose to start their own businesses and offer their services directly to clients.
• Second Shooter: Many wedding photographers also work as a second shooter for more experienced professionals to gain experience and build their portfolio.

If you want to become a successful wedding photographer, consider assisting an established professional first. It’s also essential to continuously improve your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and provide excellent customer service.

Photojournalism

Telling stories through visuals is at the heart of photojournalism, making it one of the most impactful careers in photography. A powerful image can often tell a story better than words, and photojournalists bear the responsibility of capturing the truth of the moments they witness.

A Day in the Life

A photojournalist’s work can span documenting breaking news, political events, human interest stories, or even war zones. The pace is fast, and there’s little room for error since capturing the “decisive moment” is everything.

Skillset and Dedication

Aside from photographic techniques, photojournalists must develop storytelling capabilities, an understanding of socio-political issues, and safety protocols when documenting intense situations.

Career Opportunities

• News Outlets: Photojournalists often work for newspapers, magazines, or online publications.
• Documentary Work: Projects focusing on cultural, societal, or environmental subjects often need skilled photographers.
• Freelance Photojournalism: Selling images to multiple news outlets is another viable way to thrive in this field.

If you’re inspired to create visuals that spark conversations, photojournalism might just be the path for you.

Fashion Photography

When you think of the phrase “careers in photography,” glamorous fashion shoots might be the first thing that springs to mind. Fashion photography is at the intersection of creativity, style, and commerce, providing imagery for magazines, advertising campaigns, and brand look books.

Behind the Scenes

It’s not just about snapping stylish models—fashion photographers collaborate closely with designers, stylists, makeup artists, and lighting crews to bring a vision to life. Many hours are spent preparing and directing shoots to ensure the final image aligns with a brand’s aesthetic.

Photography Skills & Trends

Success in fashion photography demands excellent understanding of lighting, composition, and retouching techniques. Being attuned to the latest style trends is also important to continually deliver fresh and relevant work.

Career Opportunities

• Editorial Work: Produce captivating visuals for magazines and online publications.
• Brand Collaborations: Work directly with fashion brands to create advertisements or promotional shoots.
• Runway Coverage: Capture stunning live moments during fashion week or other high-profile events.

Breaking into fashion photography can take time, but working on independent projects or collaborating with smaller designers is a great place to start.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife photography transports us to the wonders of nature, showcasing the beauty—and fragility—of the natural world. Whether capturing majestic lions on the savannah or vibrant local flora and fauna, this field requires more than just a camera. It requires passion, patience, and perseverance.

More Than Just a Lens

Wildlife photographers face unique challenges, from trekking into remote locations to dealing with unpredictable animal behaviour. This genre also often demands specialised camera equipment, such as telephoto lenses, and a deep understanding of animal behaviour to get those jaw-dropping shots.

Career Opportunities

• Nature Publications: Work with companies like National Geographic or BBC Earth.
• Documentary Filmmaking: Many professionals branch into cinematography to create nature documentaries.
• Stock Photography: Selling high-quality wildlife images to stock photo platforms is another income stream.

If you’re an adventurer at heart and care deeply about the planet, starting with local wildlife photography and gradually building your expertise is key.

Commercial Photography

The look and appeal of a product or brand often depend on the artistry of a commercial photographer. From product shots to lifestyle imagery, these photographers play a huge role in advertising and e-commerce.

Creativity Meets Strategy

Commercial photography is about creating visuals that sell. Whether it’s an epic food spread or high-tech gadgets, commercial photographers know how to make products look irresistible. Planning is crucial—each shoot must align perfectly with the brand message.

Career Opportunities

• Advertising Agencies work directly with commercial photographers to enhance campaigns.
• E-commerce Platforms rely heavily on clean, consistent product photography.
• Freelance Photographers work with various brands, offering increased flexibility.

Start practising by setting up dynamic shoots at home with everyday items to build your commercial photography portfolio.

Aerial Photographers

Aerial photography has boomed in recent years, thanks to the availability of drones. This genre encompasses everything from epic landscape views to creative cityscapes and is ideal for photographers with a love for adventure.

Drone Skills & Legalities

Drone camera technology keeps improving, but so do regulations—especially if you’re selling your work. Understanding different drone models and their capabilities can help differentiate your work from others’.

Career Opportunities

• Real Estate: Showcase properties from unique angles to potential buyers.
• Marketing Agencies: Help promote companies’ products or services through aerial imagery.
• Tourism Boards: Document scenic locations or events for travel promotions.

Due to its growing popularity, the competition in this field is high. It’s important to find your niche and constantly hone your skills to stand out.

Event Photographers

Event photographers capture memories and special moments for clients, from weddings to corporate events. Quick reflexes, good communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are a must.

Prioritizing & Planning

Events move fast, so planning is key. The photographer must know where to be at all times and anticipate what’s coming next. They also need to liaise with event coordinators and communicate any specific needs or requests.

Career Opportunities

• Weddings: Help couples document their special day through photos that will last a lifetime.
• Corporate Events: Photographers are needed for conferences, product launches, and more.
• Private Functions: From birthdays to anniversaries, capturing memories for private events is also a popular option.

Starting as an assistant can help you gain experience and build your portfolio before taking on your own clients.

Architectural Photographers

From capturing iconic cityscapes to documenting sleek, modern buildings, architectural photographers help showcase the beauty and design of structures. This genre requires an eye for detail and technical skills to capture the right angles and lighting.

Techniques & Equipment

Architectural photography often involves capturing large spaces, so wide-angle lenses are a must. Photographers also need to understand how to manipulate natural light or use flash techniques to highlight specific features.

Career Opportunities

• Architecture Firms: Document completed projects or create visualisations of future designs.
• Interior Design: Work with designers to showcase their work in magazines or online portfolios.
• Real Estate: Help sell properties by showcasing them in stunning imagery.

With the rise of social media and online design platforms, there is a growing demand for architectural photographers to capture unique spaces and designs. I

Next Steps for Careers in Photography

Photography jobs open up a multitude of career opportunities—each one requiring a unique blend of skill, passion, and determination. Looking to get started?

• Experiment with different genres to discover where your true passion lies.
• Build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills and creativity.
• Network within photography communities and attend workshops to refine your art.

And remember, your career is your canvas. No matter which path you choose, it’s your creativity and dedication that will make your work truly stand out.