News about a recovering economy means little to freelance photographers struggling to find enough work to feed their families. Even when times are good, it is very challenging to find decent work as a freelancer. Photojournalists especially find that competition is tough and that there are far more applicants than available jobs.
That said, if you are exceptional at your craft there are ways to profit from your passion. Talent is a huge factor in the world of photojournalism. However, there are other factors that will help you advance in the market. For example, the niche you select could mean the difference between a four figure per year paycheck and one that pays closer to six digits. Sports photojournalism, along with war, nature and fashion are among the top paying niches. While the issue of supply and demand is involved, so is risk. There are many more sports photojournalists jockey for jobs these days than war photojournalists, for obvious reasons. Working in dangerous environments and risking one’s life in order to snap pictures is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, if you are up to the challenge of being away from your family for long periods of time and you don’t mind shooting images while potentially being shot at by enemy fire, then you increase your chances of securing steady work in a field that is not as saturated as nature or sports photojournalism.
Another way you can advance your career as a photographer is to market yourself like a pro. Start by creating an eye-popping portfolio featuring your most riveting images. Be sure to include a variety of shots covering an array of genres, such as nature, wedding, fashion and sports. Next, contact photo editors of local or regional newspapers, as well as magazines and TV stations (if you know how to shoot video) and let them know you are willing to work as a freelancer if they don’t have immediate full-time jobs available. Once you get your foot in the door, be prepared to work like a dog to showcase your mad photo skills. With a little ingenuity and persistence, and a lot of passion, that sporadic freelance gig may evolve into your dream job.
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