Behind the Lens- A Day in the Life of a Professional Photographer

Photography is a versatile and dynamic field that has many different specializations, from portraiture and landscapes to sports and events. Becoming a professional photographer requires a combination of technical skills, creative vision, and business acumen.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for photographers in the United States was $36,280 in May 2020. The top 10 percent of photographers earned more than $71,670, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $20,810.

In addition to technical skills, successful professional photographers must also have a keen sense of creativity and a unique artistic vision.

A survey conducted by Professional Photographer magazine found that 84% of photographers believed that creativity was the most important factor in their success. This was followed by business skills (8%) and technical skills (7%).

Preparation

Professional photographers take several crucial steps before going on a photoshoot to ensure that the shoot goes smoothly and the resulting images are of high quality.

1. Plan the photoshoot, including location, time, subject matter, objectives, and shot list.
2. Consider weather and lighting conditions, and choose appropriate gear and equipment.
3. Scout the location to familiarize with the surroundings, identify potential obstacles and opportunities, and check for legal or safety concerns.
4. Clean and check all equipment, including cameras, lenses, and accessories.
5. Charge camera batteries and bring backups, and pack extra memory cards.
6. Prepare necessary gear such as tripods, lighting, and reflectors.
7. Discuss the shoot with the subject and obtain necessary releases.
8. Provide guidance and direction to the subject for desired poses and expressions.
9. Prepare the subject with hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling if applicable.
10. Dress appropriately, pack snacks and essentials, and bring a printed or digital copy of the shot list and other necessary documents.

These preparations ensure that photographers are well-prepared for the photoshoot and increase the likelihood of a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Did you know? In a survey of professional photographers, 71% reported that their business had been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, with 31% experiencing a decrease in revenue. (Reference: Professional Photographers of America, "The Impact of COVID-19 on the Photography Industry")

Shooting

During the shoot, a professional photographer will use their technical expertise to capture high-quality images that meet the client's needs. This may involve adjusting camera settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, as well as using lighting and composition to create a visually pleasing image. They will also direct the subject, providing guidance on posing and expressions to ensure that the final result is a high-quality image.

Post-Production

After the shoot, a professional photographer will spend time editing and processing the images. This may involve color correction, retouching, and other adjustments to enhance the final product. On average, it takes around 2-3 hours to sort and select the best images from 500 raw files. The amount of time spent on editing and retouching can vary depending on the complexity of the images, but it can take an average of 2-4 hours to edit and retouch each individual photo. They will also prepare the images for delivery to the client, which may involve selecting the best images and creating a digital or physical photo album.

On average, professional photographers will deliver around 50-100 final edited images to their clients, depending on the type and length of the shoot. Additionally, they may provide the client with usage rights, allowing them to use the images for their intended purpose.

Client Communication

Throughout the process, a professional photographer will maintain communication with the client to ensure that their needs are being met. This may involve discussing any concerns or changes to the shoot, as well as providing updates on the status of the post-production process. Clear and open communication is key to building a positive and lasting relationship with the client.

Did you know? The global photography market size was valued at $87.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $110.8 billion by 2026. (Reference: Grand View Research, "Photography Services Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis" Report By Type, By Application, By Region And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028)