Photographer resume

Photographers have a unique talent for seeing the world differently and capturing special moments through the camera lens. As in any artistic profession, photography talent and personal style are necessary for success in the field. However, it is also of great importance to demonstrate extensive knowledge and to accumulate quality and diverse work experience since what separates an especially talented amateur photographer from a professional photographer is the professional studies and gaining experience while working "in the field."

Whether you are an employed or self-employed photographer, your employer or clients will greatly appreciate it if you have acquired a relevant education and worked as a photographer in practice. Likely, they will even ask to see your portfolio, which we will touch on later.

If so, writing a resume for a photographer must include all the professional training he has undergone (courses, continuing education, etc.). It is also worth mentioning courses that are not directly related to photography but can be relevant to your work, such as a Photoshop or video editing course. In addition, if you specialize in a particular style of photography, such as portraits, food, or nature, you can indicate this in your resume if it is relevant to the job you are looking for.

Developed personal and social skills are another necessary tool in the photographer's comprehensive toolbox; therefore, they must appear in your resume. Regular work with clients and photographers requires courtesy, patience, peace of mind, helpfulness, initiative, and self-confidence from the photographer. For example: if you are a wedding photographer, you probably know that many couples lose their confidence in front of the camera, so your job is to be patient, lead the couple and instill your confidence in them.

This section is also valid if you photograph still objects because, in the end, it is a working relationship between the photographer and the client, which requires - as in any other service profession - personal and interpersonal skills at a high level. In addition to rich work experience or a broad education, many employers and clients will be happy to see a description of positive character traits in a photographer's resume (of course, it is essential to include only those that are true about you).

If you have accumulated impressive professional achievements - mention it. Present your photos at the exhibition? Are you a lecturer in the field of photography? Did you win a prestigious photography competition? A photographer's resume must include such information. Remember that your resume (in addition to your portfolio) is your business card, and their job is to show the employer or client that you are the professionals they want for their project/event.

It seems that a portfolio is just as necessary for a photographer as a resume, as it is common practice to ask the photographer to see his portfolio before hiring him or hiring his services (as the saying goes: "A picture is worth a thousand words"). The portfolio is a complementary component to a well-written resume.

The answer to the common question "At what stage is the portfolio presented?" is not unequivocal and depends on the client or employer's request. Some will ask to see the photographer's portfolio at the resume stage, and some will ask to look at it during the interview. Pay attention to the specific request of each employer or interviewer.

Many clients even look for the photographer on social networks such as Instagram and Facebook and are impressed by his work even before they contact him. Therefore, an important tip - in addition to a "traditional" portfolio, maintain an invested and attractive professional profile on social networks and treat it as your virtual portfolio.