How to Become a Photojournalist

If you are an aspiring journalist who also loves taking photos, then you may want to consider a career as a photojournalist. The profession is not an easy one, demanding your total commitment, even if it means you have to interrupt a night out on the town with friends so you are one of the first ones at the scene of a horrible crime. The odd hours are not the only stresses of the job, however. You must be willing to venture into dangerous and grisly territory if the story calls for it, and still be able to have the steady hand to capture these harrowing or heartbreaking moments on film. This guide will provide you with tips on getting your photojournalism career started.

Tips for Becoming a Photo Journalist

This video provides an overview of photo journalism, highlighting it as documenting the news through photos. You will be working with photo editors and newspapers in mind, and will be interacting with people constantly. Although there are several schools with good photo journalism programs, you do not have to go to school to be successful. Start building your portfolio by going to events that may be boring, but take photographs that will make the event interesting. This will really reflect your capabilities as an aspiring photo journalist.
documenting news most of the time.
interaction with people.
schools offering programs, but you do not have to go to school. You have to have an eye for news. Be able to move quckly. build a portfolio. make mundane events look interesting.

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Introduction
- Do you have a passion for both news and photography? Do you flourish in the midst of a potentially dangerous and exciting situation, one where being on the front lines for a breaking news story may also mean pushing your way through throngs of people carrying expensive camera equipment? There will be plenty of disappointments awaiting you, but every meaningful moment you are able to capture on film will hopefully make up for them. This is the life of the photojournalist, one who aims to tell a story through images. This guide will provide you information on how to become a photojournalist.
Step 1: Learn How to Take Photos
- The first step in becoming a photojournalist is to learn how to take photos. This means starting out early and gaining as much exposure to photography as you can. You should:
1. Take as many photos as possible, developing your eye
2. Read books about photography
3. Look at photographs in magazines and books
4. Attend photography exhibits
Step 2: Purchase the Right Equipment
- If you want to be taken seriously, you need to invest in the proper equipment. It does not have to be the most expensive, but it should be of decent quality. Find out the types of equipment professionals are currently using and see if you can find an older, but similar version. Used equipment is not that difficult to find if you do some researching. You can find some deals at camera swaps or online at places like eBay. Camera stores may also have a certified used gear list. Check around and talk to people that might know someone selling their equipment. Some equipment you might consider purchasing include:
1. A camera body that is of a professional quality
2. Camera lenses. This includes both a telephoto and wide angle lense.
3. Computers and related equipment
4. Flashes and various other lighting equipment
Step 3: Get an Education
- Aspiring photojournalists should consider seeking a degree in Journalism or attending a photography school. Not only will it provide you the opportunity to receive your college diploma, but it will also give you a chance to further your experience and make contacts for the future. You can, for example, work at your college newspaper, radio or television station, which will allow you to further both your journalistic and photography skills.
Step 4: Gain Experience
- Experience is key for the photojournalist. If you are still in college, you should get an internship at a magazine or a newspaper. This may lead to a job, but at the very least will give you the opportunity to put your skills into play.
Step 5: Develop Skills
- Focusing on people in action is what photojournalism is all about. If you can hone your craft by capturing people doing what they do, presenting it in a visually compelling way, your photographs will immediately be among the best. Other skills to develop include:
1. Being able to meet deadlines
2. Remaining calm under pressure and being able to make quick decisions in a fast paced environment
3. Study photography related technologies such as scanning, touching up photos and printing
Step 6: Build a Portfolio
- Begin working on your portfolio as soon as possible. Make sure you include:
1. A variety of shots that show your creativity and versatility
2. Photo essays on people's lives. Your portfolio is not just about photos, but your ability to use them to tell a story as well.
3. Make sure you have a healthy dose of action shots and sports related photos, as this is often a selling point when it comes time to hire a photojournalist
Step 7: Be Persistent
- As with most professions, persistent individuals are always more appealing to potential employers. Work on selling yourself, and don't give up. The field of photojournalism is a very competitive one, so the more photographs you can get published, the more likely your chances are for getting hired. Build your resume doing freelance work and keep submitting your photos!
Conclusion
- Photographs and the news go hand and hand, complimenting one another to present the entire story both visually and through the written word. If you have a skill and love for both, then why not explore a career as a photojournalist?
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