Skills Needed to become a Press Photographer
Everyone who has ever used a camera has probably at some time or another had dreams of being a photographer for some big name newspaper or magazine. But, beyond the ability to point a camera and snap a picture, few know just what’s needed to break into this profession.
The proliferation of on-line media might lead some to believe that this is a dying profession, but a look at some of these sites will show that today, as much as ever, good photography is still needed.
What does an aspiring photographer have to do to become a press photographer? Following is the training and skills needed to break into this fascinating field.
Artistic Skill and Training
While it might not seem to be necessary to have an artistic eye to do good press photography; the ability to compose shots that lead the viewer’s eye to points of interest or that grab that interest in the first place, is essential to success. There are a number of on-line photographyschoolsthat offer everything from simple technical training to degrees. In addition, many community colleges offer classes in photography that help prepare students for jobs in this field. The money spent on a good photography class can pay dividends in the future and give the candidate a leg up over unschooled competition.
Stamina
The work of press photographers can be demanding. Getting good photo coverage of fast-moving news events is not a job for couch potatoes. This requires a certain mental toughness as well as physical stamina.
Self-confidence and persistence
Often, media photographers are required to get pictures under circumstances when others will try to prevent it. Without overly intruding into the private lives of subjects, it is the job of the press photographer to ‘get the picture.’
Patience
Good news photos sometimes require waiting patiently for the ‘golden’ moment; that movement, gesture, or expression that tells the story better than a thousand words. Good press photographers know how to wait.
Proper Equipment
While it’s not necessary to have the most expensive equipment to do good press photography, it helps to have equipment that is sturdy enough to stand up to the rigors that one will often have to endure. In addition, a good selection of lens, filters, and external light sources, as well as a tripod, will come in handy at times. A sturdy camera bag that can be carried over the shoulder or in a back harness helps in transporting equipment to and from news sites.
A Professional Portfolio
Before applying for a job as a news photographer, it helps to amass a portfolio of one’s best photographs. Some people specialize in one kind of photography, such as sports, but when applying for work, it helps to be able to show a broad range of photographic ability, so the portfolio should include action shots, portraits, and landscapes.
One final skill that is difficult to describe, but that is essential if one is to be a truly good news photographer is to have an eye for what makes news. While schools can provide technical training, the ability to ‘see’ the potential of a picture is something that only comes with time, experience, and lots of practice.
