Photojournalist
Key Facts
Overview
Photojournalism is a form of journalism that uses photography as its foundation and producing documentary style stories; it combines words and pictures in the final story. Press photographers take photographs of current events that are then used alongside articles written by journalists. Photojournalists follow-up story leads that come into their office, or they may suggest a story themselves. When they work on a story, they interview the people involved and research the background, adding photographs to their report. People in these careers can specialise in a particular genre, such as sport, travel or social commentary; they are self-motivated and able to work under pressure. They may need to travel and work unsociable hours; many press photographers and photojournalists are self-employed and freelancers.
What it takes
What it takes:
Skills and knowledge
What you'll need
- working flexibly to produce required photographic journalism, articles and commentary
- using digital and traditional photographic methods and editing processes
- current awareness of topics, themes, issues requiring photographic commentary and documentary
- communication skills to engage with people in challenging situations or being unwilling to be photographed
- organisation and time management skills
- creative and visual skills
- ability to use equipment in a variety of situations
Day to day
Day to day:
A Photojournalist can work on different assignments and tasks can include:
- undertake assignments that meet the brief
- recognise impact of photographs to record and highlight issues, campaigns, conflict, hardship
- work predominantly alone on assignments
- be prepared to travel or work unsociable hours
Requirements
You will need
- A qualification in photography
- A GCSE (4+/A*-C) (or equivalent) in English
Academic and Vocational Notes
It is typical to progress into photojournalism through opportunities with organisations in news, fashion, food, events, blogging and train with a mix of on-the-job assignments. Pre-entry involves gaining a qualification before you look for work. There are specific photojournalism degree courses available; or you can look at postgraduate options.
Work Based Training Notes
Direct entry training combines actual job experience with part-time study for related qualifications. A very difficult area to get into, many photojournalists are self-employed.
Other Routes
Whilst these are the usual routes to this career, there can be alternatives. You will be able to discuss these with your adviser.
