Photographers take pictures of people, events, and scenes to document memories and tell visual stories. The job requires creativity, technical camera skills, and a willingness to work in various locations. Photographers typically need a college degree in photography and experience with different camera types. While the average salary is around $27,420 annually, growth in areas like photojournalism and commercial photography is increasing opportunities in the field.

1. PhotographersBy: Carly Matz Block A

2. Job DescriptionTakes pictures of peoples moods, feelings, actions and memorable moments.Have to be familiar with the techniques of operating a variety of cameras.There are commercial, portrait, industrial, scientific, news and fine arts photographers.Occupational Outlook Handbook says “Photographers produce and preserve images that paint a picture, tell a story or record an event.”

3. Job Description (cont.)Need creativity to produce really successful pictures.If you are a photographer you should not expect to be working in an office.You have to be flexible about where you work because you could be working overnight or a place out of the country.

4. Education and TrainingA college degree in photography.Take the classes photography and art.Have experience with camerasOne could use skills like artistic ability, good eyesight and hand eye coordination.It is helpful to be involved with the production of the school yearbook

5. Fun Fact about PhotographyThe word photography means “photo” in Greek which means light meaning to draw

6. Salary The average annual salary for this job is $27,420 a year.The average hourly salary for this job is $13 a hour.

7. Growth Potential and OutlookThe growth is 17% from 2000 to 2012.This job is growing at an average pace.Every year more people are applying to this job.The outlook for this job is stable.

8. Related CareersPhotojournalist Camera OperatorPhotographic DesignerGraphic Designer

9. Additional Training Photographers need to know some types of computer programming systems to upload your photos.After becoming a photographer you should still consider taking photography courses.A professional photographer should be patient, accurate and detail- oriented.

10. Thought About Success Quote “A person who aims at nothing is sure to hit it.” (Anonymous)