An event photographer needs a good resume to catch a hiring manager’s eye. In this article, you'll find real resume examples and learn strategies for creating a strong resume. We cover key sections, important skills, and tips for making your experience shine. Whether you're new or experienced, get the tips you need to make your resume effective for the event photography industry.
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Here's what we see in top event photographer resumes.
Show Impact With Numbers: Good resumes use numbers to show impact. Include metrics like
List Relevant Skills: Include skills on your resume that you have and are mentioned on the job description. Some popular ones are
Use Short, Clear Phrases: Good resumes use clear phrases like
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As an event photographer, your skills and experience are vital. If you have been working for some time, detail your professional experience first. Your practical knowledge is what will catch an employer's eye. However, if your education in photography or a related field is the most recent and significant achievement, place it before your experience. This will help explain any gaps and show your dedication to learning.
For those new to the field, such as recent graduates, put your education at the top. Focus on highlighting relevant coursework, projects, or workshops that demonstrate your skills in photography and event coverage. While listing your education, always consider the specifics that make you a good fit for photography roles, like knowledge of different photography techniques or familiarity with various editing software. Let these details show your readiness for the job, even if your work history is limited.
Link to an online portfolio showcasing your best photos. This is vital for an aspiring event photographer. Use a clean, professional website to impress potential employers.
Include a few high-quality, printed samples with your resume if submitting in-person. This adds a personal touch and shows your eye for detail.
As a hiring manager, I recommend that you aim for a single-page resume if you are an event photographer with less than 10 years of experience. This should give you enough space to highlight your most important skills and work, without overwhelming the reader. In your case, make sure to include a few of your best photography jobs to show your style and range.
If you have more than 10 years of experience, or a substantial number of significant projects, a two-page resume might be necessary. Here, you can afford to include more details about your assignments and the impact of your work. Remember to keep your layout clean and to leave enough white space for ease of reading.
Clearly list your proficiency with photography equipment and software. Include camera models, lenses, and editing tools like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.
Mention experience with both digital and analog photography if you have it. This can set you apart in an event photography job.
When you apply for event photography jobs, know that your resume might first be read by a computer program. This is called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). It checks if your resume has words and phrases that match the job you want. To pass this test, you need to include the right details.
Here are things you can do:
Doing these things can help your resume get seen by a person who can offer you an interview.
To make sure your resume stands out, tailor it to show you have the skills and experience needed for event photography. Show you understand what this job involves and how you can contribute. Use words from the job ad so it's clear your skills match.
When crafting your resume as an event photographer, focus on the specific technical skills that show your capability in this field. These are the tools and techniques that help you stand out to hiring managers looking for a skilled professional.
Include these skills in a dedicated section or weaved into your job descriptions, showcasing how you used them in real situations. This helps with both human readers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that look for job-specific keywords. Tailor your skills list to the particular event photography role you want. For example, if you want to work at weddings, focus on
When you craft your resume, it's essential to show your impact with clear metrics. This helps hiring managers understand the value you bring. For an event photographer, these metrics can highlight your efficiency and the reach of your work.
Here are ways you can weave in numbers:
Think about your past work and try to estimate these metrics. If you're unsure, consider your typical event size, frequency, and the feedback you receive. These figures make your contributions concrete and give hiring managers a clear picture of your abilities.
When you apply to small companies or startups, show that you are adaptable and can handle various tasks. Your resume might include phrases like 'flexible and able to cover a wide range of events.' Small firms such as local wedding photography businesses or independent event organizers often value a personal touch and a wide skill set.
For larger companies, like Getty Images or National Geographic Events, focus on how you manage high-volume tasks and work with teams. Use phrases like 'experienced in large-scale event coverage' or 'proficient in collaborative projects.' Big companies often look for specialists who can fit into a larger workflow efficiently.