Although for many photography is a hobby, that does not mean that for some it can become a profession serious, something to live on, pay the bills, the mortgage, and why not, even take some money into savings.
Photography is one of the sectors where more money moves. Do you see that little camera (compact or reflex) that rests in a drawer in your room? Around it there is a whole booming industry. If you like photography and it is something that you live with a lot of passion, it may be time that you seriously consider dedicate yourself to this sector professionally Or at least get a bonus.
Works related to photography
When we talk about professional dedication to the field of photography we habitually fall into the mistake of limiting ourselves to thinking of the profession of «photographer». Yes, photographer is fine, but there are other trades and jobs closely related to photography and in which we do not usually pay attention. Here is a small list of jobs, all related in one way or another to the camera:
1 – Photojournalist: Hard work but very rewarding. Not only financially (due to the risk that sometimes comes with working in conflictive and high-risk places) but also from an emotional point of view. The feeling of being able to capture what happens with the camera, sometimes in places that are difficult to access and without communication, and transmit it to the rest of the world, in defense or in denouncing a cause, is a priceless feeling.
2 – Professional photographer of weddings, communions, etc.: One of the most competitive jobs is where there are more people taking their first steps in professional photography. Depending on how good a photographer you are, you can start charging high, little, or even nothing at first. As you progress, improve and gather a good portfolio of jobs that you consider “decent”, you will notice a parallel economic improvement 🙂
3 – Photographer specializing in pets and babies: I have separated this “type” of photography from the previous one due to the difficulty that is usually involved in photographing such unpredictable and uncontrollable creatures as pets and babies. It is a job that requires a certain experience and “love” for what one does, hence there is not as much competition as it could be the case with wedding photography. If you are passionate about pets and babies this could be a great job for you.
4 – Commercial Product Photographer: It consists of photographing objects and products for commercial brands. It requires having a small own studio, lights and photos, etc.
5 – Photo camera seller: An alternative way to put your photography skills to good use might be by working at a specialty photography supply store. From cameras to flashes, through tripods, backpacks and other accessories. You may not exactly work as a photographer, but you will be helping many photographers to develop their work correctly. This work, by the way, will allow you to develop a good portfolio of contacts, photographers who will be your clients and who, over time, may become professional partners, propose a collaboration, or get involved in their world of photographers, until without you realizing Count on one of these days you end up with a camera around your neck and your first contracted report.
6 – Photography model: It is also another work closely related to cameras and photography. For a photo to take place, it is not only necessary for someone to be behind the camera, but also for someone to pose in front of it. If you like to pose you may want to take a closer look at this type of work. Be careful, it is not necessarily essential that you be an irresistibly beautiful skinny model and not older than 21 years. In photographic works there are many occasions when models of different ages, physical shapes and body aesthetics are required.
7 – Photography teacher: It is one of the most rewarding “photographic” jobs. Being able to transmit your knowledge in photography to people who want to learn is something wonderful, something that many people would do for free, and if you also charge for it, you couldn’t ask for more.
For this job you need 2 essential things: a) have knowledge deep in the matter as is obvious and b) be a good communicator, a good pedagogue, knowing how to transmit, sensing the student’s problems and knowing how to guide them. If you are a crack in photography but you do not know how to “communicate”, perhaps this is not your job, just in case, it is worth reading this letter.
As you can see, there are multiple options and I’m sure I’ve left something out. You just need to have passion and will, the rest comes little by little.