Photography
Photographers take photographs for a living. They arrange people, lighting and objects to find the best positions for shots. They liaise with their customers to decide what is required and select appropriate cameras and props. Using equipment including lenses, film and filters they take numerous photographs to provide a variety of choice. They may use special techniques or computer graphics to retouch negatives and prints.
Photographers specialise in one of the following areas of photography:
- general practice
- advertising, fashion and editorial
- press
- medical
- industrial and commercial
- scientific
- police
They work in many different environments - indoors in a studio or laboratory, or outdoors and many work long, unsociable and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.
Trainees earn around £12,000 a year, going up to about £35,000 for experienced photographers.
A photographer should:
- be creative, with a good eye for a picture
- have good co-ordination
- be able to keep up to date with changing technologies
- understand reproduction and printing techniques
- have good computer skills
Photography is a very competitive occupation. There are about 25,000 professional photographers in the UK, and most are self-employed.
It is common to start as a photographers assistant, particularly in general practice, advertising, fashion and editorial. Many new entrants have completed courses in photography, but this is not always necessary. A portfolio of work is essential.
Many photographers start work and then train on the job, often working towards City & Guilds qualifications. Some employers may offer sponsorship for apprenticeship training or for further study at college in specialist fields, such as medical, press or police photography.
Employers such as the armed services or police have limited prospects as departments are small. For self-employed photographers success depends on building up a business, a network of contacts and a reputation.
To apply for any of these courses call 01635 845000 and we will arrange an interview.
Our Learner Services and Information team can also offer careers advice and guidance if you are not sure which course to choose.
Newbury College
Monks Lane
Newbury
RG14 7TD
Telephone: 01635 845000
Fax: 01635 845312
Email: info@newbury-college.ac.uk