How to Become a Photojournalist: Guide to FIRST STEPS

Last Updated: July 2nd, 2022 by Noah Shaw

Do you have a passion for storytelling? Are you an excellent photographer? If so, photojournalism may be the perfect career for you!

This article will define photojournalism and list the steps for how to become a photojournalist. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about this exciting career field.

So if you’re interested in learning how to become a photojournalist, keep reading!

Visit our Career Guide for a list of all our job insights for an in depth look at the new career path you are considering.

What is Photojournalism?

How to become a photojournalist.
Photojournalists capture events happening in real-time and often work for news organizations or independently as freelancers.

Photojournalism is a branch of journalism that aims to document real-world events and tell stories through photography.

Photojournalists typically work for newspapers, magazines, or wire services, and millions often see their images of people and events worldwide.

Photojournalism has its roots in early war photography and news reporting. However, it didn’t come into its own until portable cameras and faster film stocks were developed in the late 19th century.

Since then, photojournalism has continued to evolve, embracing new digital photography and video technologies. Today, photojournalists use social media to share their images with a broader audience.

Photojournalism is sometimes criticized for being too subjective or biased, but its proponents argue that it provides a vital window into the human experience.

In a fast-paced world where news is often reduced to sound bites, photojournalism allows us to slow down and see what’s going on around us.

Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that photojournalism is one of the most potent forms of communication in existence.

What Does a Photojournalist Do?

A photojournalist is a visual storyteller who uses images to capture moments and tell stories. Photojournalists may work for magazines, newspapers, websites, or as freelance photographers.

Photojournalists might cover breaking news stories, events, or feature stories, so they need to have strong photography skills.

They must be able to compose shots quickly and know how to use light and composition to create powerful images. They also need to have good people skills.

Photojournalists often have to interact with strangers and build trust quickly to get the shots they need. In some cases, they might need to put themselves in dangerous situations to get the photograph.

Finally, photojournalists need to be able to edit their work in order to produce high-quality images.

Here’s a brief look into the daily tasks of Photojournalists:

Follow a Photojournalist as they explain their average day, tasks, and their experience in the field.

How to Become a Photojournalist

Follow these below steps to learn how to become a photojournalist:

Learn the Basics

Becoming a photojournalist can seem daunting, but it is pretty simple if you know the basics. The first step is to find a camera that suits your needs and budget.

There are many different types of cameras on the market, so it is essential to do some research before making a purchase.

Once you have a camera, you will need to familiarize yourself with its various features and settings.

Familiarizing yourself with your camera will help you to get the most out of your equipment. Then, the next step is to practice taking photos.

Start by photographing everyday objects and scenes before moving onto challenging subjects.

As you become more comfortable with your camera, you will be able to capture aesthetically pleasing and informative images.

With time and practice, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful photojournalist.

Consider Earning a Degree

Earning a degree in photography can open up opportunities and help you hone your craft.

Not only can earning a college degree give you the chance to learn from experienced professionals and develop your technical skills. It can also help you gain a deep understanding of the history and theory of photography.

Additionally, a degree can help you network with other photographers and build a portfolio that will attract the attention of potential employers.

So if you’re serious about becoming a photojournalist, consider earning a degree in photography. It could be the best decision you ever make.

Obtain an Internship

While this field requires talent and hard work, the rewards can be highly gratifying.

One of the best ways to break into the area is to obtain an internship with a professional news organization.

An internship (paid or unpaid) will allow you to work with experienced journalists and develop your skills in a real-world setting. In addition, internships often lead to full-time jobs, so it is worth pursuing this option.

If you are interested in becoming a photojournalist, start by researching internships and applying to the ones that look like the best fit.

With perseverance and a little luck, you may find yourself on the path to an exciting and fulfilling career.

Grow Your Network

To be a successful photojournalist, you need to have a strong network of contacts. These contacts can provide you with leads on stories, access to exclusive events, and insider information.

They can also introduce you to other photographers and editors who may be able to help you further your career.

Building a solid network takes time and effort, but it is essential for anyone who wants to succeed in the competitive world of photojournalism. Start by attending industry events and networking with other photographers.

You can also get involved with online communities and participate in forums and discussion groups. In addition, always be on the lookout for new opportunities to meet people in the industry and make connections.

The more people you know, the better your chances of success in this profession.

Create a Portfolio

While some photographers have a natural eye for composition and lighting, others may need to learn these skills through practice and experimentation.

In either case, it is essential to put together a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. Your portfolio should include various images, ranging from candid shots to well-planned compositions.

In addition, be sure to include pictures that demonstrate your ability to capture both the ordinary and the extraordinary. With a strong portfolio in hand, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful photojournalist.

There are a few things to keep in mind when creating a portfolio:

  • First, it should showcase your range as a photographer. Include a mix of landscapes, portraits, close-ups, and action shots.
  • Second, pay attention to the overall quality of your work. Make sure that each photo is well composed and technically sound.
  • Third, tell a story with your photos. A portfolio that captures the emotions and experiences of its subjects will be more impactful than one that simply contains pretty pictures.

By following these guidelines, you can create a portfolio that will help you stand out from the competition and land the job of your dreams.

Start Your Job Search

Becoming a photojournalist is an exciting and rewarding career choice. However, it is also a competitive field, and it cannot be easy to get your foot in the door.

The best way to increase your chances of success is to start your job search as early as possible. Begin by researching the qualifications and requirements for positions that interest you.

Then, start submitting applications and resumes. In addition, consider interning or volunteering with photography-related organizations.

Networking is also essential, so try to attend photography events and meet other professionals in the field.

You can put yourself in a solid position to land a photojournalism job by taking these steps.

Find A Photo Journalist Job Near You!

Income Expectations

The right gear is essential.
Freelance Photojournalists can have a harder time finding a steady income than those that work for organizations.

Photojournalists have no set salary, as earnings vary greatly depending on experience, location, and employer.

However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for photographers was $34,000 in May 2018.

Salaries typically range from $24,000 to $62,000 per year.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in a photojournalism career, it’s essential to understand what to expect and what steps to take.

In this article, we’ve defined the role of a photojournalist, listed the steps for becoming a photojournalist, and answered frequently asked questions regarding this role.

With perseverance and a little luck, you may find yourself on the path to an exciting and fulfilling career.

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About Noah Shaw

An editor & writer on staff at LandYourLife, Noah is a career research enthusiast passionate about helping others find & work towards their ideal vocation.