Photographers today are employed in professions belonging to mainstream industries like newspapers, television and advertising. In the year 2000 alone, there were over 130,000 jobs in the photography industry and the number is quickly on the rise. An estimate of at least 15 to 20 percent growth is expected in this decade.
The job descriptions for these professions are also gradually evolving. The recent exponential growth in popularity of electronic media like news, entertainment and even the internet dictates several different but distinct requirements from photographers. The demand for talented photographers is on the rise and choosing a career in photography will provide countless new and exciting opportunities and niches which you can hope to fill. To help you along and provide you with some more examples of niches in the photography business, refer to the list at the end of the article.
‘Quick, hit me with the facts!’ – Photography as a Career
– Studies have shown that with the recent boom in digital photography, the photography equipment market is dominated by digital cameras, related digital photography equipment and software.
– The largest collection of professional photographers is found working in densely populated areas.
– Around 50% of professional photographers are working for themselves and are in constant demand.
– Popular market research companies have conducted several surveys. In one conducted in 2004, the results showed that photographers who did not own a digital camera were planning to get one before the year ended.
– The rise in photography jobs is predicted to rise by at least 15 to 20 percent until 2012.
– Advice from established, professional photographers indicate that individuals beginning photography should concentrate heavily on the composition of the actual photo. The technical aspects of photography are secondary.
An averaged annual income for photographers showed that around $24,000 was the norm. The limits were shown to be between $14,000 to $50,000 annually.
– There were roughly about 130,000 photographers in the United States alone in the year 2002.
– David Julian, a professional photographer, mentioned in an interview done on the Photo.net website that beginners first learn the ropes by starting an internship with a successful and experienced photographer. This allows beginners to understand the intricacies of running a photography business.
– A survey done in 2004 revealed that over 80% of photographers, who are professionals, use digital cameras.
There appears to be no slow down in the demand for creative and talented photographers. It doesn’t matter what area in photography you look at. Here are some to think about;
- Different Fields In Photography
- Graphic Arts
- Advertising
- DTP
- Publishing
- Journalism
- Television and Movie Production
The above news may seem all good but don’t go rushing in without reading a little more. Try this article on starting your own photography business.