Taking Pictures
Photography is something that is easily accessible for anyone with a phone now-a-days. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most competitive job roles in the entire world. It used to be that news reporters would have photographers on speed dial for whenever a breaking story required snap shots. But, to use a recent example, if you look at the tragic events that unfolded in Glasgow back in November 2013, when a malfunctioning helicopter crashed into the Clutha Bar, the majority of the photos that made the front pages the next morning were taken on smart phones by eye witnesses. But that’s not to say that you couldn’t have a career in photography, just be prepared to fight and claw for potential work projects…
The Professionals
Professional photographers tend to cover pre-appointed events such as football matches or concerts. One of the best ways, however, to make money by taking pictures, is to successfully become known as a wedding photographer. Which, again, is obviously a very competitive area but very lucrative once you have established yourself. There are professionals who work one day out of the week and make a packet in the process! Not a bad way to live, even if it is an occasional Saturday you’re giving up!
How to Get Noticed
Photography is essentially a talent that can be improved on. Many people aspiring to get noticed tend to get creative and come up with innovative ways to get their images in public view. A popular modern method is to display pictures personally taken as banners on social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter. Another, more “old school” means, is to put together your own calendar and distribute them as much as possible. No-one’s going to see your work if you don’t put it out there…
If you’ve got ambitions to get into this line of work, there are plenty of courses available at local colleges that could help improve your prospects and give you hands on experience with expensive state-of-the-art, SLR cameras. Of course, the competitiveness must be taken into account, but if you’re determined and can dedicate your time to improving and showcasing your skills to finding the best angles, then a bright future as a photographer may await!
