Commercial Studio Photographer Job Description
If you have a talented photographic eye, consider going into commercial studio photography. Commercial studio photographers are typically freelance independent contractors who complete photographs focusing on one model (editorial photographs) and photographs focusing on several models (commercial photographs) for advertising agencies. While some work with models, other photograph food, house interiors and products.
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Training and Education
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Some commercial studio photographers go through formal education and training to learn technical skills for their work. They might pursue a bachelor's in photography or journalism. Another option is to complete a master's program in photography or communication. Some people also brush up their techniques by attending a certificate program, workshops and non-credit college courses. While a degree may help, advertising agencies typically care that commercial photographers have the skills to finish their projects with a touch of quality. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, some people gain experience and learn technical proficiency by working as photo assistants. Having hands-on experience from photo assistant positions helps build a portfolio.
Duties
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Commercial studio photographers need to understand composition and lighting to make photos that are appealing to advertising agencies. Duties include setting up lighting equipment and directing photography assistants to help. They also must set up and take down backdrops and props. On the job, they take photos, edit and archive them. They are also in charge of sending customers invoices for their work.
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Income
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According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average income for a salaried, full-time photographer was $29,440 in 2008. That statistic doesn't take into account that some commercial studio photographers freelance. Freelancers who are beginning their businesses may have a difficult time finding freelance work, which may create long lapses in time between paychecks. The benefit of doing commercial studio photography is that, ideally, a photographer's client pays for the equipment necessary for the shoot.
Getting Hired
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Commercial studio photography is a difficult field to get into because many people want full-time positions working with advertising agencies. They aspire to work with big-time models and get their names in magazines; the job sounds glamorous. Not enough positions are available for people who want them, which may leave some aspiring commercial photographers doing freelance work. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, commercial photographers may be adversely affected by the influx of amateur photographers selling their work on the Internet. While getting and keeping a position may be difficult, work still exists for commercial photographers to create print advertisements.
Qualifications
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Since a degree is not a necessary qualification, the ability to perform on the job is important. According to All Art Schools, the four most important qualities of a commercial studio photographer include an artistic vision, communication skills, technical skills and business skills. Communication skills are important because the photographer may be directing models or an art crew to arrange the composition. He needs to understand how to make his ideas vocal, which also should help him book jobs with advertising agencies.
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References
- Photo Credit woman with camera image by Valentin Mosichev from Fotolia.com
