What Are the Job Benefits for a Photographer?
Although salaries vary for the different types of photographers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics report for May 2008, the average yearly pay for salaried photographers was $29,440. Ten percent earned more than $62,430. While photography may have drawbacks in terms of salary and consistency, there are several advantages to the profession.
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Accessibility
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With advancements in digital photography and telecommunication, it has become possible for a field photographer in Afghanistan to capture a photo of Marines and send the image over to an office in the U.S. for publication within minutes. Advancements in the Internet and photography equipment have made the profession significantly more accessible. In addition, professional photographers can come from many educational backgrounds. Although a college degree in photography can give you a leg up, there are also vocational training programs and the possibility of learning skills through experience, apprenticeship and self-study.
Self-Employment
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Many photographers choose to work as freelancers, specializing in weddings or other areas. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 50 percent of photographers are self-employed, which is a considerably higher percentage than in most other professions. The potential for self-employment is particularly enticing for many, as it allows for freedom in scheduling and creative independence.
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Social Influence
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Photographers play a huge role in capturing a special moment or event in a person’s life and making it last forever through pictures. Their influence can be profound by capturing artistic creativity or the emotion of a particular moment in time, such as oil-drenched pelicans from the 2010 Gulf spill in Louisiana or the beauty of a pregnant woman. Photos can make people want to try cookbook recipes, or stop to read advertisements.
Excitement
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Photography can be an exciting avenue. Some get to see a lot of different people, including movie stars, famous singers and other notable figures. Others get to travel around the world and snap pictures of exotic places that most will only see via photographs. Others have the opportunity to work on the sidelines of football games and front and center at other big events.
Turning a Passion into a Career
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Perhaps the biggest draw of being a photographer is the ability to develop a successful career out of something that is a great passion. Photography is a great path for those who love to take photos and get paid at the same time.
Variety
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Photographers most often enjoy variety in work setting. They are sent on various outside assignments that can provide a diverse environment.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit photographer image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
