Career Opportunities in Photography
An old phrase “a picture speaks a thousand words” does not always state just a poetic expression. Photography is an exclusive and creative medium of self expression. It is an art form requiring aesthetic sense as well as technical expertise. An individual, who inculcates a hobby in photography, can successfully make it profitable by venturing into professional photography, by taking it as a career option, also in the Indian context. With the explosion of the communication network, the growth of advertising and media and the fashion boom, and digital photography, it has now become a profession with great commercial value. Photos are an essential part in both print and electronic media. So this is an area offering great scope for those who have an interest and attributes needed to be a professional.
Eligibility :
The different courses available for Photography are to become a professional photographer; one could have a graduate degree (B.A.) in Photography. The degree and postgraduate degree courses are offered by private and government colleges in India and abroad. 10 + 2 (Higher Secondary) students with any group as the major can choose to do a course for their career. The course duration for the various programs is as follows: Diploma is two years, B.A (Photography) is a three years integrated course and after completion of B.A (Photography) for 3 years he / she can go for M.A (Photography) which is of two years. Almost all the universities and institutes involving Arts offer Bachelors degree in Photography and its related fields.
Career Prospects :
Demand for photographers should increase as the population grows. Moreover, growth of Internet versions of magazines, journals, and newspapers will require increasing numbers of commercial photographers to provide digital images. The Internet and improved data management programs also should make it easier for freelancers to market directly to their customers, increasing opportunities for self employment and decreasing reliance on stock photo agencies. A career as a photographer opens many different doors for you, and gives you the options for a whole variety of different photography careers. You can work in the world of journalism, big business, science and art. You can decide to run your own business or you can work for a salary.
A person who has completed formal studies in photography and its related fields has wide opportunities. The career options that exist for graduates and diploma holders are quite extensive. They can join as an assistant of a senior photographer in the beginning and grow in their career. Some of the jobs include:
- Commercial photographer
- Industrial photographer
- Advertising photographer
- Fine arts photographers
- Scientific photographer
- Forensic Photographer
- Fashion photographer
- News photographer
- Digital photography
- Wildlife photographer
- Wedding photographers
- T.V. channels Photographer
- Cinema Still Photographers
Remuneration :
For a photographer employed in any of the govt. or private media related business can draw a salary from Rs.6, 500 to Rs.12, 000 for fresh graduates, which increases with experience and specialization. But for freelance photographers in the above fields, the remuneration is directly proportional to his/her performance and creativity. It is way ahead when compared to a salaried photographer.