Entry-Level Photography Jobs: 20 Paths to Kickstart Your Career

Launching Your Photography Career with Entry-Level Jobs

Are you looking to kickstart your photography career but not sure where to begin? Whether you’re a budding photographer or just getting started, finding the right entry-level job is crucial to your growth.

You’re not alone—many photographers face challenges when trying to break into the industry, but the right opportunities can make all the difference.

As photography experts, we’re here to guide you through your journey. In this article, we’ll cover:

• 20 entry-level photography jobs to help you build your skills
• How to gain hands-on experience and expand your portfolio

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful photography career.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s start!

1. Freelance Photographer

Love flexibility? As a freelance photographer, you can choose the job type that suits you—whether it’s portraits, events, or products. The key to success is not just great photos but also knowing how to connect with clients and manage your schedule.

Popular niches:

• Portrait photography
• Event photography
• Product photography

2. Photographer’s Assistant

Starting out? Working as a photographer’s assistant is one of the best ways to learn the ropes. You’ll assist professionals during shoots, help set up equipment, and get hands-on experience while verifying your skills.

What you’ll do:

• Learn from experienced photographers
• Assist with shoot preparation
• Build valuable industry connections

3. Event Photographer

As an event photographer, your action shots at weddings, corporate events, or parties will help create lasting memories for clients. Security and timing are key to successfully responding to the fast pace of events. You’ll need to use your ability to capture the perfect moment while being adaptable.

Types of events you’ll shoot:

• Weddings
• Corporate events
• Parties and celebrations

4. Portrait Photographer

Portrait photographers create images of individuals or groups, often in a controlled studio setting. Your ability to direct clients, control lighting, and compose shots will be key. Portrait photography jobs are perfect for building a resume of professional work.

Who hires portrait photographers?

• Families
• Seniors for graduation photos
• Professionals needing headshots

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5. Product Photographer

Product photography is in high demand, especially in the world of e-commerce. You’ll need to verify that your photos meet the standards for online stores. A well-lit and detailed image can boost sales and respond to customers’ needs by showcasing products effectively.

Where your work will be used:

• Social media ads
• Online stores
• Catalogs and magazines

See Also Product Photography Jobs

6. Real Estate Photographer

Real estate photographers are responsible for capturing stunning photos of homes and properties. Whether it’s an interior or exterior shot, your ability to work in various lighting conditions is crucial. These photos are used to attract potential buyers, and completing each shoot quickly and professionally is key.

Popular niches:

• Interior photography
• Exterior property shots
• Aerial real estate photography

See Also Real Estate Photography Jobs

7. Stock Photographer

Stock photographers create images that are uploaded to platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. After uploading, you verify the quality of your images and get paid whenever someone downloads them. This job offers a way to earn passive income once your portfolio is built and posted online.

Best-selling stock images:

• Landscape photography
• Business imagery
• Lifestyle photography

8. Social Media Content Photographer

For businesses looking to connect with their audience online, social media content photographers create fresh, engaging visuals for their platforms. If you know how to create photos that attract attention on Instagram or TikTok, this is a great way to gain experience.

Who hires social media photographers?

• Influencers
• Brands and startups
• Marketing agencies

See Also Real Estate Photography Jobs

9. Sports Photographer

Sports photographers capture high-speed action and dramatic moments at sporting events. Your ability to anticipate the action and be in the right place at the right time is vital. Completing each shot without missing a key moment is a challenge, but also highly rewarding.

Where you’ll work:

• Local sports teams
• High school or college games
• Professional leagues

10. Food Photographer

If you’re passionate about food and photography, this job allows you to showcase the art of food presentation. Whether you’re working for restaurants or food blogs, the verification successful waiting for a perfect shot can be rewarding, as you’re often asked to respond quickly to clients’ requests.

You’ll work on:

• Restaurant menus
• Cooking blogs or websites
• Food packaging and advertising

11. Fashion Photographer

Fashion photographers collaborate with designers, models, and stylists to create beautiful, dynamic images. Your role involves responding to creative direction and managing shoots efficiently. Building a resume in this field can lead to opportunities for higher-profile assignments.

Opportunities include:

• Studio shoots with models
• Fashion lookbooks
• Editorial fashion photography

See Also Fashion Photography Jobs

12. Pet Photographer

Pet photography can be a fun and rewarding job where you capture pets at their cutest moments. Working with animals requires patience and the ability to get the perfect shot at the right time. It’s also a job that allows you to connect with pet owners and offer them a memorable experience.

Where your work is needed:

• Pet portraits
• Animal rescues or shelters
• Pet product photos for businesses

See Also Photography Jobs

13. Documentary Photographer

Documentary photographers use their cameras to verify the truth and tell stories. Whether it’s capturing a social issue or documenting history, your role is to respond authentically to the world around you. This job requires a strong connection to the human experience and an ability to document what is important.

Common documentary projects:

• Document social causes
• Capture historical events
• Travel photography for publications

See Also Documentary Photography Ideas

14. Photojournalist

As a photojournalist, you’ll be capturing images for news outlets and magazines. Your role requires completing assignments under tight deadlines, often with limited connection to the subject. It’s an exciting but challenging job that requires both quick action and accuracy.

What you’ll work on:

• News outlets
• Magazine features
• Press conferences and political events

15. Fine Art Photographer

Fine art photographers create images meant to be displayed in galleries or sold as art. It’s a job that allows you to explore your creativity and express your personal vision. Many photographers in this field also verify their work’s quality before posting it in exhibits.

Ways to sell your work:

• Exhibitions and galleries
• Photography prints for sale
• Conceptual photography projects

See Also Fine Art Photography Jobs

16. Drone Photographer

Drone Photography offers a unique aerial perspective of landscapes, real estate, and events. Whether you’re capturing a wide-angle landscape or shooting from above, responding to changing weather conditions and verifying safety is crucial when working with drones.

Common drone photography jobs:

• Aerial shots for real estate
• Landscape photography
• Drone footage for events

17. Wedding Photographer

Wedding photographers capture key moments at weddings, including candid shots and carefully planned portraits. Being able to respond to every situation with security and professionalism is vital for capturing a couple’s special day. You’ll need to complete shoots on schedule while providing high-quality results.

Must-have shots:

• Bridal and groom portraits
• Ceremony and reception photos
• Engagement sessions

See Also Wedding Photography Jobs

18. Photo Editor

Photo editors take existing photos and enhance them, correcting colors, lighting, and sharpness. You’ll need to verify the quality of each image, making sure it meets the photographer’s standard. It’s a job that requires patience and technical ability to perfect each photo.

Your main tasks:

• Retouching portraits
• Color correction
• Editing for publications

19. Commercial Photographer

Commercial photographers work with businesses to create images for advertisements, brochures, and other marketing materials. Action shots and product photos are essential, as they help drive sales and connect with customers.

Common projects:

• Product photography for ads
• Commercial lifestyle shots
• Brand photoshoots for marketing

See Also Product Photography Jobs

20. School Photographer

School photographers take photos of students, staff, and events at schools. This role requires good organization and the ability to manage many subjects in a short time. It’s also a job where completing assignments quickly is important, as multiple shoots are usually scheduled throughout the day.

What you’ll shoot:

• Class and individual portraits
• Sports team photos
• School event coverage

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Key Takeaways About Entry-Level Photography Jobs

There are many exciting entry-level photography jobs that can help you kickstart your career in photography. From freelance gigs to internships, these roles provide the opportunity to build your skills, gain experience, and expand your portfolio.

Whether you’re interested in portrait, event, product, or real estate photography, each job type offers a valuable learning experience. As you gain more experience, you’ll have the chance to specialize in your preferred niche and even consider higher-paying positions.

Freelancing, working as an assistant, or joining an internship can also provide important networking opportunities that help you grow as a photographer. Keep an eye on your email for potential job postings and opportunities to move forward in your photography journey.

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