Photography Careers - Starting Out

Not many folks know what is behind a great photograph, and many of us see photography purely as a hobby or pastime. But if you look deeper, you'd realize that there's a handful of lucrative photography careers out there...

From freelance photography, to being part of a photography business or company that caters several prestigious events, to insurance photography or even pet, portrait or school photography, a photography career allows you to earn an income as well as balancing other responsibilities such as a full time job or family.

The first thing you need to think about when starting a career in photography is what type of photographer you want to be. There's a wide variety of photographic niches or fields you can start with - from nature photography to wedding photographers, and from news photographers to stock photography. You should consider your passion when starting your career. As an example, if you are one with nature, then its best you start training yourself in wildlife/nature photography!

Learning the basics

There are several basics you need to remember and to take in as a whole before you jump head first into any photography careers. Firstly, and as strange as it sounds, limit the caffeine intake. Blurred photographs are often caused by what's commonly known as 'camera shake.' Although you are consciously aware of any movement, your photographic results will tell you otherwise.

To avoid ruining shots, try planting both feet on the ground while establishing a comfortable stance, with elbows tucked firmly in your body. Remember to take (and hold) your breath just before you snap the picture. If you have the tendency to shake, do yourself a favor and use a tripod! These sort of photo tips are common sense but suffice to say you need to be able to take good photos to start a career in photography!

The second 'basic' photo tip you need to know is the rule of thirds. Divide the shot into horizontal and vertical grids of third, like a tic-tac-toe. Rather than placing the picture smack bang in the middle, place it at one of the intersecting points of the imaginary grid. This gives your shots a higher 'fascination factor' and keeps them from being boring. Whatever you do - never do boring. Always look for that fascination factor.

Another must-know tip when considering any sort of photography careers is the use of several kinds of cameras. A good photographer needs to understand how one camera differs from the other when it comes to its quality. In other words, know your digital DSLRs, know your large formats, and know how a digital darkroom works too. You should be able to define the boundaries between excellent pictures and ho-hum pictures. While you're there, get savvy with Photoshop and Apple Macs!

Believe it or not, the people who engage in the photography business nowadays do not really need to have an extensive background in photography. Most people compile their photography work in portfolios, and the resume almost becomes insignificant. Many companies who hire photographers often do not read the contents of the resume. :) They'll take one quick look at your portfolio and evaluate you and your work on the spot. So come prepared!

An excellent photography career begins with the passion for it. Pictures taken with interest have a different feel to them - a beauty that comes from within if you like. Keep in mind that if your photography is not great then you can always improve it. Learn from your mistakes, fix or avoid the problem next time, and keep evolving.