How to Work As a Stringer Photographer

Getting the right equipment is key to success as a stringer photographer.

With contract labor available for significantly less, photography positions are increasingly being eliminated in many news organizations. Retrenchments have become commonplace as publications streamline in the face of stiff competition. This has opened up opportunities for freelance photographers who don't have to accrue benefits like full-time employees. Many stringer photographers do work for major publications. But if you're new to freelancing, you need to know how to work as a stringer photographer.

Things You'll Need

• Camera
• Computer
• Internet connection
• Bank account
• Telephone

Instructions

1. Acquire the right tools you need to function as a stringer photographer, including cameras, communication tools, transportation and protective clothing. You must also have supplies and backups necessary for you to complete your assignments under difficulty circumstances.

2. Consider the expenses to determine the acceptable minimum payment or your income target before taking up an assignment. Look at the value your client gets from the pictures. You must also take into account other factors including time, risk, experience and the type of equipment you need to complete an assignment. Consider the market segment also. Celebrity publications pay a lot more money for a picture, for instance.

3. Ask for a contract every time you get work. The contract must be clear from the beginning what your assignment is. Understand clearly your rights licensed, fees, expenses and responsibilities before accepting an assignment. Ensure usage rights are part of the initial negotiations along with the fees, including reimbursement for mileage and supplies you purchase in advance. Invoice promptly and accurately once you complete an assignment.

4. Specify assignment details in writing. Ensure you understand what is needed to complete an assignment satisfactorily. This is important to avoid confusion when you submit your work. It is also good for a photographer who wants to exceed minimum expectations. Always remember that when you do an outstanding job, an organization will use your service repeatedly. Seek pictures that tell a story you see. Avoid images that unfairly portray situations of subjects.

5. Ensure the assignments you get are reasonable, especially if you have to go into a dangerous zone. No picture is worth your life. When you're in danger, the organization you represent must help you to pull out immediately along with all your equipment. It is also important for your to insure your equipment, lest it is damaged during an assignment.

Tips & Warnings

• The National Press Photographers Association recommends photographers to use an attorney-approved contract before taking up any assignment. Apart from payment terms, the contract must specify rights granted for the use of the images, credit language and liabilities.

• Don't accept oral contracts because they are hard to prove in court if violated. Also, don't ever use Photoshop to change an image. The credibility of photojournalists is on the line in the wake of Photoshop which has made images malleable and changeable. Your success as a stringer photographer hinges on your credibility.

References

• National Press Photographers Association: Best Practices for the Business of Independent Photojournalis
• National Press Photographers Association: Contracts

Resources

• National Press Photographers Association: NPPA Independent Photographer's Toolkit