Freelance Photography Job Ideas
If you have a strong visual sense and a knowledge of cameras and the principles of photography, the idea of working as a freelance photographer can be very appealing. Photographers work in a wide range of environments and capture images of important events and noteworthy people. But freelance work of any kind carries some potential drawbacks, and freelance photography isn't for everyone.
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Types
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Freelance photographers work in a variety of capacities. If you plan to enter the field, or already work as a freelance photographer but want more steady work, you can perform a combination of different short-term jobs. These include mainstream media photographers who photograph special events and attend press conferences; publicity photographers who work in studios and create images for websites, magazines and advertising; stock photographers who produce more general images that media outlets buy to stock their image libraries; and event photographers who shoot at weddings and parties.
Process
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Working as a freelance photographer requires that you build up a network of contacts and leads to ensure steady work. Since you don't have a full-time employer, you need to be available when clients need you, which may mean maintaining an open schedule and being willing to travel for work. Freelance photographers must also market themselves with methods such as word of mouth, seasonal discounts, business cards and an online portfolio that shows off work examples.
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Benefits
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Freelance photographers who enjoy the process of photography get to turn their passion into a source of income, which can be the single largest benefit of the job. Other benefits include a constantly changing work schedule and list of duties. Freelance photographers can set their own hours and take time off for other projects or job opportunities, which can make for a varied, exciting lifestyle. Experienced freelancers can also command a high rate that is based on the quality of past work and a strong reputation.
Drawbacks
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Working as a freelance photographer carries definite drawbacks for many in the field. For example, freelancers generally don't receive employer-paid benefits such as health insurance, overtime pay, paid vacation or retirement savings contributions. Freelance work is also sporadic and subject to change with the economy and customer needs. New freelance photographers may have trouble establishing a client base or commanding a rate high enough to make a profit after the cost of equipment and travel.
Alternatives
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Photography jobs can follow a freelance model or a more traditional structure. Staff photographers work for a single outlet, such as a newspaper, magazine, wedding photography service or publicity agency. While this type of work has less variety than freelance work, it also provides more job security. Freelance photographers may also move into careers as photo technicians, designing or repairing cameras and equipment, or photo editors, using software to enhance and archive the images freelance and staff photographers create.
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References
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