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Photographers produce and preserve images that paint a picture, tell a story or record an event. To create commercial-quality photographs, photographers need technical expertise, creativity and the appropriate professional equipment. Today, most photographers use digital cameras instead of traditional silver-halide film cameras, although some photographers use both types.
Portrait photographers take pictures of individuals or groups of people and often work in their own studios. Some specialize in weddings, religious ceremonies or school photographs and may work on location.
Commercial and industrial photographers take pictures of various subjects, such as buildings, models, merchandise, artifacts and landscapes. These photographs are used in a variety of media, including books, reports, advertisements and catalogs.
Scientific photographers take images of a variety of subjects to illustrate or record scientific or medical data or phenomena, using knowledge of scientific procedures. They typically possess additional knowledge in areas such as engineering, medicine, biology or chemistry.
News photographers, also called photojournalists, photograph newsworthy people, places, and sporting, political, and community events for newspapers, journals, magazines, or television.
Fine arts photographers sell their photographs as fine artwork. In addition to technical proficiency, fine arts photographers need artistic talent and creativity.
How long will it take?
Entry-level positions in photojournalism or in industrial or scientific photography generally require a college degree. Amarillo College offers several options for those interested in becoming photographers.
How much will you earn?
Median annual earnings of salaried photographers were $26,170 in 2006.
Where can I work?
More than half of all photographers are self-employed. Most salaried photographers work in portrait or commercial photography studios; most of the others work for newspapers, magazines and advertising agencies. Photographers work in all areas of the country, but most are employed in metropolitan areas.
AC can help you get there!
