About Freelance
Photography
Freelance photographers often choose to pursue this line of work because they enjoy the process of taking pictures and thrive on the diversity of subjects and clients. Although the career is significantly more complex than simply snapping photos, an interest in photography often instigates a freelance career. Not only does freelance photography offer photo takers a satisfying career--it can also be a profitable one. According to Collegegrad.com, photographers earn between $26,000 and $54,000 per year.
Goal of Photographer
The major goal of a freelance photographer is to capture images and moments in a particular way. If photographing a wedding, she wants to focus on the bride and groom, ensuring they capture pivotal moments like cutting the cake, the first dance and throwing the bouquet. The photographer must understand how lighting will affect the picture, use proper angles and be able to portray the subject in a certain way.
Camera Choice
They must be familiar with commercial quality photographs and have professional equipment. Many photographers use digital cameras rather than the traditional film cameras. Digital cameras allow the photographer to instantly view photos for quality control. They can also easily load the photos to their computer to enhance certain images, crop the pictures and send them electronically to nearly anywhere in the world. Traditional film cameras, on the other hand, must be developed, a significantly more strenuous process for the photographer.
Areas of Focus
Freelance photographers often specialize in a specific area of photography. This allows them to be especially capable at a single subject and build a portfolio that reflects their particular area of expertise. Photojournalists usually take pictures of newsworthy events or people. They often sell these photos to magazines, newspapers or news related websites. Some freelancers focus on special events like weddings, reunions and parties. They are generally hired by and paid by the individual hosting or participating in the event.
Education
Although freelance photographers are not required to get an education or certifications in photography, they may be beneficial. Individuals can choose to simply take basic photography classes at a community college or they can look at more advance institutes. Many community colleges offer two-year degrees and certificate programs in this field. Bachelor degrees can also be pursued at many universities that emphasize professional photography. Finally, people can pursue an education from art or photo specific schools such as the New York Institute for Photography.
Business
Freelance photographers must not only understand take great photos, they must also be business savvy. The first thing that photographers should assemble is a portfolio. A portfolio displays their work and lets a potential buyer see the quality, style and areas of specialization evident in the body of work.
Like any form of self-employment, this competitive field also diligence and self-discipline. Freelance photographers must seek out freelance jobs, contact prospective employment and advertise their services. Online job boards, such as freelancephotojobs.com, are one place to look for photography jobs. Wedding photographers might advertise at bridal boutiques or offer discounts to brides who contact them through certain wedding planners.
Networking can be very beneficial to photographers who intend to focus on events. However, the photos themselves are the ultimate selling tools for any photographer. Quality photos and a good reputation go a long way towards securing freelance opportunities.
