Discovering the art of capturing compelling visuals while monetizing your passion is an exciting journey. In this article, “How To Become A Commercial Photographer In 6 Easy Steps,” we delve into the realm of commercial photography. From essential skills to business insights, we’ll guide you through mastering the craft, exploring 6 types of commercial photography, understanding diverse genres, and ultimately establishing yourself as a proficient commercial photographer.
Table of Content
What Is Commercial Photography?
6 Types of Commercial Photography
1. Fashion Photography
2. Portrait Photography
3. Product Photography
4. Food Photography
5. Architectural Photography
6. Interior Photography
6 Steps to Become a Commercial Photographer
1. A High-Quality Camera
2. Complete a Photography Course
3. Build Up a Portfolio
4. Work with Commercial Photographers
5. Find a Job
6. License
Commercial Photographer Salary
Conclusion
What Is Commercial Photography?
Commercial photography, also known as advertising photography, serves the purpose of promoting and advertising products or services effectively. This genre involves capturing images of various subjects with specific commercial objectives. During these shoots, photographers adhere to brand guidelines and predetermined shot lists. Creative choices are often subject to client approval, as they maintain ownership of the commissioned work under a “work for hire” arrangement.
6 Types of Commercial Photography
The realm of commercial photography encompasses six distinct genres, each catering to diverse marketing needs:
1. Fashion Photography
Fashion photography seamlessly blends with the world of style, capturing clothing ensembles on runways, in showrooms, and outdoors for lookbooks. It encapsulates the dynamic between fashion models and their attire, turning models into living advertisements for the latest trends.
2. Portrait Photography
This style vividly portrays human subjects, often depicting individuals at work or engaging in various activities. Commercially, portrait photography finds its place in stock images for websites and marketing materials, linking products with relatable human interactions.
3. Product Photography
Focusing on products’ features and benefits, product photographers employ high-definition, close-up shots to showcase merchandise. These images play a pivotal role in branding and marketing by presenting items in their most captivating form.
4. Food Photography
Capturing delectable images for packaging and menus, food photography involves meticulous styling with attention to detail. Using artful arrangements, food stylists craft visually enticing meals that remain visually appealing under the scrutiny of photography lights.
5. Architectural Photography
Architectural photographs narrate the stories of buildings and structures. These visuals find their place in brochures, web marketing, and portfolios, often aiding in property sales. Be it skyscrapers or bridges, architectural photographers capture the essence of construction.
6. Interior Photography
This genre accentuates exceptional interior design, serving clients like interior designers and real estate agents. It casts spaces in the best light to highlight design prowess, especially in the realm of real estate where captivating interiors attract potential buyers.
6 Steps to Become a Commercial Photographer
Engaging in commercial photography offers a viable avenue for earning income. In India, similar to the US, this field presents lucrative opportunities. According to the Indian job market, the median hourly wage for commercial photographers can be comparable. Even if you’re not a seasoned photography professional but possess a keen interest in visuals, embarking on a journey to become a commercial photographer is attainable. Gone are the days when this seemed like an unattainable aspiration.
Today, even starting at the high school level, you can pursue your passion for photography and transform it into a successful career. The Photo and video market was on a trajectory to achieve a significant milestone, with an anticipated revenue of US$67 million in the year 2022. Projections indicate a promising annual growth rate (CAGR 2022-2027) of 11.35%, foreseeing the market’s total revenue to expand to a substantial US$122 million by the year 2027.
This growth trend highlights the dynamic and thriving nature of the industry, reflecting a robust demand for visual content across various sectors. Following is the guide that will steer you through entering the realm of commercial photography in 2024:
1. A High-Quality Camera
If the path of a commercial photographer beckons you, the journey starts with acquiring a quality camera. Among the variety of high-quality cameras available in the market, opting for a larger lens camera is essential to ensure the capture of high-quality images. Brands offer unique features at varying costs, so research is crucial. Canon EOS 800D, Nikon D850, Canon EOS 7D MARK II, Nikon D780, and others stand out as quality options. Seeking advice from a seasoned photographer during your camera purchase can offer valuable insights.
2. Complete a Photography Course
Seasoned commercial photographers recommend undergoing a comprehensive commercial photography course. Such courses facilitate learning techniques, bolstering foundational knowledge, and provide a platform to interact with experienced instructors. Practical assignments, examinations, and consistent practice contribute to gradual skill enhancement. A multitude of online courses and local agencies offer opportunities to delve into the world of commercial photography, ultimately equipping you with the expertise needed to excel.
3. Build Up a Portfolio
Embarking on a photography career or business necessitates the creation of a portfolio showcasing your finest works. Establishing a website to exhibit your photographs doesn’t require expert assistance; platforms like Wix and WordPress offer user-friendly content management systems. This portfolio becomes a representation of your skills, potentially attracting clients. Additionally, your website can generate revenue if visitors express interest in purchasing your photos. An impressive portfolio also allows you to gain visibility through social media platforms.
4. Work with Commercial Photographers
Working alongside a seasoned photographer, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, is a valuable opportunity for skill enhancement. Collaborating closely with an experienced mentor exposes you to various aspects of photography. You gain insights into their photography style, shot composition, and editing techniques. Hands-on experience under the guidance of a professional facilitates learning from their expertise, accelerating your growth as a commercial photographer.
5. Find a Job
Securing a job in the field of commercial photography is an effective means of refining your skills and harnessing your talent. Working for media organizations, news channels, or photography agencies provides consistent opportunities to capture diverse subjects. Specializing in product photography offers a chance to develop your skills further. Working in such environments allows for continuous practice and growth, which contributes to your journey toward becoming a proficient commercial photographer.
6. License
Understanding licenses is a critical aspect of business photography. When entering into agreements, it’s essential to precisely define the terms of usage for your photos. Different types of licenses play distinct roles:
- Copyright: Determines the ownership of image rights after a photoshoot, whether by you or the client.
- Permitted Uses: Outlines specific restrictions on how the images can be used.
- Timeframe: Specifies the duration during which the client can use the images.
- Frequency of Use: Determines how often the images will be replicated.
- Usage: Defines the permissible applications of your images.
Navigating the intricacies of licensing ensures that your work is appropriately valued and that both you and your clients are aligned in your expectations. By following these steps, you’ll be on a path to honing your craft and establishing yourself as a successful commercial photographer.
Commercial Photographer Salary
The salary of a commercial photographer can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, specialization, and client base. In India, entry-level commercial photographers might earn around INR 2-4 lakhs per year, while experienced professionals with a strong portfolio and established clientele can earn significantly more, ranging from INR 5-10 lakhs or more annually. Freelance photographers have the potential to earn even higher amounts based on project demand and their reputation in the industry.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to become a successful commercial photographer is an exciting endeavor that requires a blend of artistic vision, technical skills, and business acumen. With this comprehensive guide, you’ve gained insights into the world of commercial photography, from understanding its various genres to mastering essential steps to thrive in this dynamic field. For those aspiring to refine their photography skills and delve deeper into the industry, consider exploring AAFT Online’s Comprehensive Photography Program. This platform offers a structured curriculum, expert guidance, and practical exposure to equip you with the tools needed to excel as a commercial photographer.
The commercial photography industry continues to evolve, driven by the demand for captivating visuals in the realm of advertising and marketing. By honing your craft, adapting to industry trends, and leveraging your creativity, you can carve a successful path in this competitive and rewarding field. As you embark on your journey, remember that dedication, passion, and a commitment to continuous learning will be your allies in achieving your aspirations.
