In this article, you will learn how to build a strong resume for photographers. We will share proven examples and strategic advice. You will discover how to highlight your technical skills, showcase your portfolio, and emphasize relevant experience. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the industry, these resume tips are designed to help you stand out to potential employers and get hired.
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Here's what we see in the best resumes for photographers.
Show Impact Using Numbers: The best resumes show impact with numbers. Use metrics like
Include Relevant Skills: Include skills on your resume that you have and are mentioned on the job description. Some popular ones are
Showcase Diverse Experience: A good resume shows diverse experience. Phrases like
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Understanding where to place your education on your resume is important. If you are new to photography or recently completed a photography-related qualification, show your educational background at the beginning. This will help employers see your recent commitment to honing your craft.
For those with substantial experience as a photographer, you should list your experience first. Your practical experience will be most relevant to hiring managers. Only include education related to photography or visual arts. Generic or unrelated education can be left out to keep your resume focused.
Include a link to your online portfolio prominently on your resume. Hiring managers want to see your work quickly, and a well-organized portfolio can make a strong impression.
Choose a platform that is user-friendly and professional. Websites like Behance or your own professional site work well for showcasing your photography skills.
For photographers, your resume should be concise. If you have been taking photos professionally for less than 10 years, aim to fit your resume on one page. You need to show you can choose what work to highlight. List your most relevant and recent projects first. This helps ensure your strongest experience catches the eye quickly.
Senior photographers with more than 10 years of experience could use two pages. But remember, even with extra space, clarity is vital. Keep margins readable and font size reasonable. Use the first page to display your top achievements so they are seen during the initial quick review. It's not about the length; it's about presenting your skills clearly and effectively within the space you have.
List the photography equipment and software you are proficient with. This shows employers you know how to use the tools of the trade effectively.
Mentioning specific cameras, lenses, or software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop can set you apart from other candidates who do not specify their technical skills.
When you apply for photography jobs, your resume might first be seen by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) before a hiring manager looks at it. Make sure your resume can get through these resume screeners.
Keep the formatting simple. Complex designs can confuse an ATS. Stick to text and avoid using images or graphics in your resume.
Make your resume stand out by showing the unique skills you bring to photography. You need to match your abilities to what the job is looking for. Use clear, simple terms that show your strong points and how you can help the company.
When crafting your resume, highlight what you've achieved, not just what you've done. Employers want to see your impact, not a list of job duties.
Instead of saying you 'took photos at weddings', which lists a duty, you can transform it into an accomplishment: 'Enhanced visual storytelling for 20+ weddings, resulting in a 15% increase in client referrals.' This shift puts the focus on your results and the value you bring.
Another common oversight is stating 'Worked with Adobe Photoshop.' Turn this into an accomplishment by saying, 'Streamlined photo editing process using Adobe Photoshop, cutting turnaround time by 25%.' This shows you not only have the skill but also use it to create efficiency.
When crafting your resume, include a mix of technical and creative skills specific to photography. This helps show you're well-equipped for the job. List these skills in a dedicated section for easy reference.
Remember, you don't need all these skills, just those relevant to your specialty. For example, if you focus on studio work, emphasize lighting and backdrop setup. If you're a nature photographer, highlight your ability to capture outdoor lighting. Place these skills in the top third of your resume to catch the eye quickly, as this is often the first place hiring managers look. Tailor your skills to the job description, ensuring they align with what's being asked. This approach helps your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that many companies use to filter candidates.
If you have moved up ranks or taken on leadership roles, it's important to highlight these on your resume. Show ways you've grown in your field, leading teams or projects.
Think about times you've been trusted to make decisions or guide others. Even if you haven't had a formal title, consider moments you've been a lead photographer or directed a shoot. These experiences show you can handle responsibility and work well with others.
As you present your experience, using numbers can make your achievements stand out. Numbers show the clear impact of your work. Think about how you can measure your success in past roles. Here are ways to quantify your contributions:
Even if you're unsure about exact numbers, you can estimate. Think about how many events you've photographed, or how many photo shoots you've done monthly or annually. Consider the feedback you received, and if possible, collect data from social media insights or client testimonials. These numbers help hiring managers see the real-world impact of your work.
When you apply for a job as a photographer, the way you present your experience can depend on the size of the company. If you're targeting a large corporation like Getty Images or Reuters, focus on showing a range of skills. You might include phrases like 'versatile photography portfolio' and 'experience with large-scale events.' These companies often look for people who can handle diverse assignments and work well under tight deadlines.
On the other hand, if you're applying to a small studio or a startup, they might value a strong connection with their specific style or niche. Use phrases like 'specialized in boutique wedding photography' or 'expert in product photography for e-commerce.' Small companies often look for someone who can fit into their team and contribute to their unique brand right away.