What Does a Photographer Do?
A photographer is responsible for capturing images that tell stories, preserve memories, or promote products and services. They use their creative vision to compose shots, adjust lighting, and select locations that bring out the best in their subjects. Photographers may work in fields such as portraiture, weddings, events, commercial marketing, real estate, journalism, or fashion, tailoring their skills to meet the needs of clients and audiences. Their work plays a vital role in communication and branding across industries.
Beyond taking pictures, a photographer also manages the technical and business aspects of the profession. They select appropriate camera equipment, set up lighting, and use editing software to enhance images for final delivery. Many photographers manage client consultations, contracts, scheduling, and marketing to grow their business. Success in this role requires balancing artistic creativity with technical proficiency and business acumen.
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Photographer Core Responsibilities
- Capture and edit high-quality images for clients or publications
- Plan and prepare photo shoots, including scouting locations and arranging lighting
- Operate professional cameras, lenses, lighting, and other photography equipment
- Meet with clients to understand creative direction and project requirements
- Edit, retouch, and finalize images using software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom
- Manage digital files, portfolios, and image storage systems
- Market services and maintain relationships with clients and vendors
- Stay updated on photography trends, techniques, and technology
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency with DSLR and mirrorless cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment
- Expertise in photo editing and post-production software (Adobe Creative Suite or equivalent)
- Knowledge of composition, color theory, and digital imaging
- Strong technical ability to troubleshoot equipment and adapt to lighting conditions
Soft skills
- Creativity and artistic vision
- Strong interpersonal and client service skills
- Attention to detail and ability to work under deadlines
- Self-motivation and adaptability to different photography environments
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in photography, fine arts, or digital media recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of professional photography experience or a strong portfolio
- Specialized training or experience in portrait, commercial, or event photography
- Familiarity with social media marketing and digital portfolio management
National Average Salary
Photographer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Photographer is:
$45,250
Sample Job Description Templates for Photographers
Portrait Photographer
Position Overview
We are seeking a portrait photographer to capture high-quality images of individuals, families, and groups in studio and on-location settings. This role requires creativity, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to make subjects feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Responsibilities
- Photograph individuals, couples, and families in studio or natural environments
- Set up lighting, backdrops, and props to enhance portraits
- Edit and retouch images for professional presentation
- Consult with clients to understand their preferences and desired style
- Maintain organized records of shoots, bookings, and image delivery
- Build and update digital portfolios to showcase work
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with DSLR or mirrorless cameras and studio lighting equipment
- Knowledge of posing techniques and portrait composition
- Strong editing skills using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
Soft skills
- Interpersonal skills to make clients feel at ease
- Creativity in styling and composing shots
- Time management to handle multiple client bookings
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in photography or fine arts recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in studio management or client photography sessions
- Portfolio showcasing professional portrait work
Wedding and Event Photographer
Position Overview
We are hiring a wedding and event photographer to document milestone occasions with creativity and attention to detail. This role requires excellent timing, adaptability, and the ability to work in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
Responsibilities
- Capture candid and posed images at weddings, corporate functions, and private events
- Coordinate with clients to understand event schedules and key moments
- Edit and deliver professional images within agreed timelines
- Scout event locations and plan for lighting, backgrounds, and technical needs
- Collaborate with event planners and vendors to ensure seamless coverage
- Manage multiple shoots and maintain backups of digital files
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in low-light and fast-paced photography environments
- Knowledge of advanced lighting setups and off-camera flash
- Proficiency in photo editing and batch processing software
Soft skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to remain calm and flexible under pressure
- Organizational skills for managing multiple client contracts
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Training in event photography recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of wedding or event photography experience
- Strong portfolio of wedding and live event coverage
Commercial/Product Photographer
Position Overview
We are seeking a commercial/product photographer to create high-quality images that highlight branding, products, and services for marketing campaigns. This role requires a blend of creativity and technical expertise in studio lighting and digital editing.
Responsibilities
- Photograph products, advertisements, and promotional campaigns
- Set up studio lighting and backgrounds to showcase product features
- Edit and retouch images to align with brand guidelines
- Collaborate with marketing teams, designers, and art directors
- Manage workflow for high-volume product photography sessions
- Maintain consistent file organization and archiving practices
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in studio lighting, macro photography, and flat-lay techniques
- Proficiency with editing software for color correction and retouching
- Knowledge of commercial photography standards and image licensing
Soft skills
- Attention to detail in capturing brand-specific visuals
- Strong communication with creative teams and clients
- Ability to manage multiple assignments on tight deadlines
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in photography, visual arts, or digital media recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience photographing for e-commerce, catalogs, or advertising campaigns
- Knowledge of digital marketing and branding strategies
Real Estate Photographer
Position Overview
We are hiring a real estate photographer to capture high-quality images of residential and commercial properties for listings and marketing materials. This role emphasizes accuracy, consistency, and fast turnaround times.
Responsibilities
- Photograph interior and exterior spaces of homes and commercial properties
- Use lighting and angles to highlight property features
- Edit and deliver images optimized for online listings and print media
- Collaborate with realtors, brokers, and property managers
- Maintain scheduling flexibility to meet client deadlines
- Capture aerial photography or videography using drones when required
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with wide-angle photography and HDR imaging
- Experience with editing tools for real estate photo enhancement
- Familiarity with drone technology for aerial shots (FAA certification if required)
Soft skills
- Professional communication with real estate agents and homeowners
- Strong organizational skills for managing multiple property shoots
- Attention to detail for staging and composition
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Training or coursework in real estate photography recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience photographing properties for MLS listings
- FAA drone certification for aerial real estate work
Fashion Photographer
Position Overview
We are seeking a fashion photographer to capture striking images for editorial publications, advertising campaigns, and brand lookbooks. This role requires creativity, industry knowledge, and the ability to work in collaboration with stylists, models, and designers.
Responsibilities
- Photograph models for fashion campaigns, runway shows, and editorial shoots
- Coordinate with stylists, makeup artists, and creative directors
- Set up and manage studio and on-location shoots
- Edit and retouch photos to meet professional fashion standards
- Build and maintain a strong fashion photography portfolio
- Stay updated on industry trends and visual styles
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in fashion lighting, composition, and styling
- Proficiency with editing software for professional retouching
- Knowledge of fashion industry standards for publication and advertising
Soft skills
- Creativity and strong artistic direction
- Effective communication and collaboration with creative teams
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and dynamic conditions
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in photography, visual arts, or fashion recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Published portfolio in fashion magazines or campaigns
- Experience photographing runway or editorial shoots
Photojournalist
Position Overview
We are hiring a photojournalist to capture images that document real-world events, news, and human-interest stories. This role requires an eye for storytelling, quick decision-making, and the ability to work under pressure.
Responsibilities
- Photograph live events, news, and community stories for media outlets
- Collaborate with reporters, editors, and news producers
- Edit and deliver images quickly under tight deadlines
- Ensure accuracy, ethics, and integrity in visual reporting
- Maintain and organize photo archives for editorial use
- Travel as required for field assignments
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong knowledge of documentary and candid photography
- Proficiency with editing software for fast turnaround
- Ability to shoot in diverse and challenging environments
Soft skills
- Storytelling ability through images
- Strong judgment and ethical standards
- Ability to adapt quickly in fast-paced or unpredictable settings
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, photography, or media preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in photojournalism or news photography
- Published work in recognized media outlets
Sports Photographer
Position Overview
We are seeking a sports photographer to capture dynamic images of athletes and sporting events for editorial, promotional, or commercial use. This role requires technical expertise in high-speed photography and a strong ability to anticipate action.
Responsibilities
- Photograph live sporting events across professional, collegiate, and community levels
- Capture action shots that highlight athletic performance and emotion
- Edit and deliver images optimized for print and digital platforms
- Work with sports organizations, media outlets, and marketing teams
- Use specialized equipment to capture high-speed movement and low-light conditions
- Maintain equipment and ensure reliability in high-pressure environments
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in high-speed photography techniques and telephoto lenses
- Proficiency with editing software for sports-specific image adjustments
- Knowledge of lighting and positioning for indoor and outdoor sports venues
Soft skills
- Ability to anticipate action and capture decisive moments
- Strong communication with editors, coaches, or clients
- Flexibility to travel and work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Training or coursework in sports or action photography recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience photographing professional or collegiate sporting events
- Portfolio showcasing dynamic sports coverage