Photographer Resume Examples: 5 Best Samples & Why They Work

Have you struggled to craft a photographer resume that gets the attention of a hiring manager?

It’s happened to the best of us. You’re a photographer, not a writer, so crafting a resume may not be your strong suit.

Fortunately, writing a compelling resume is a lot easier when you have examples. Then, you’ll know what to highlight and what to exclude from your application.

You don’t have to let your resume go unnoticed any longer. In this article, we’ll cover some examples of photography resumes and share some tips you need to know to make your next application memorable for the hiring committee.

Photographer Resume Examples

Working as a photographer can be an exciting, rewarding career. There are multiple career paths in the world of photography. You have to understand art, marketing, and how to work with people, depending on the photography career you want.

Whether you’re looking for your first job or need a career change, your application is everything. Read on for some examples of resumes for photographers looking for work.

Entry-Level Photographer Resume Example

Having no work experience as a photographer can make it tough to land a job. Fortunately, a standout resume can help you set yourself apart from other applicants.

Objective

To launch my career as a photographer and apply my knowledge and skills to produce visually compelling images that tell a story and evoke emotion. Seeking an entry-level position that provides me with the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive and creative environment, while contributing to the success of a dynamic organization.

Work Experience 1: Student Journalist/Photographer

• Attend weekly meetings regarding the next issue of the paper, pitching ideas of events to cover.
• Work with reporters to capture events in photos, obtaining consent from image subjects when applicable.
• Select the best images from each event that week, deleting subpar images as necessary.
• Edit photos to improve the quality so that the images are suitable for publication.
• Assist with the layout of the print newspaper, including placement of images and text so that everything is legible and looks good.

Work Experience 2: Student Theatre Lighting Assistant

• Understand how the lights work to provide the best lighting for different conditions, including a spotlight and more general stage lighting.
• Work with the theatre director to plan lighting and lighting changes throughout the production.
• Implement the lighting plan during tech and dress rehearsals as well as during any public performances.
• Assist the director with other tasks as needed, such as setting up the rehearsal space.
• Replace lighting covers with different colors to evoke different moods for various stage productions.

Project Experience

• Complete senior portraits for members of my high school class, including the photoshoot and editing process.
• Develop a photography website to showcase my work and experience and to highlight relevant skills.
• Volunteer with the local animal shelter to photograph pets that are up for adoption, showcasing the animals and their personalities.

Skills

• Teamwork
• Time management
• Interpersonal communication
• DSLR cameras
• Adobe editing software

Education

• Central High School, class of 2020
• Summer Photography Camp, 2018

Licenses & Accreditations

• Adobe Digital Learning Services, Photoshop Certification
• First place in student journalism, photo category

Why This Resume Works

In the work experience section, the applicant highlights two student roles they held in high school, both of which have something to do with photography or lighting, even if the roles were unpaid.

They also highlight some photography-related projects they’ve completed. The projects cover a variety of types of photography, showing how this person is a versatile artist. Along with soft skills, the skills section highlights how the candidate understands common photography tools.

In listing their education, the photographer starts with their high school. However, they also include a summer camp where they learned a lot about photography. Finally, they share certifications and awards related to their photography experience.

If you don’t have paid experience as a photographer, this is a good resume model. You can include unpaid experiences to help showcase what you can do with a camera.

Freelance Photographer Resume Example

In many cases, freelance photographers rely more on their portfolios. However, some clients might want to see a resume when hiring a freelancer. If you come across this, consider what to include in your resume.

Objective

To utilize my skills and experience as a freelance photographer to capture and deliver high-quality images for a diverse range of clients. Seeking a challenging and flexible role that allows me to work on a project basis, showcase my creativity and versatility, and build lasting relationships with clients.

Work Experience 1: Self-Employed Photographer

• Schedule consultations with potential clients to go over their needs for the photoshoot and post-production.
• Meet the client at the designated photo shoot location to set up and prepare for the event.
• Take posed photos of the client and any important guests using natural light or a professional lighting kit.
• Capture candid moments during the photoshoot and event.
• Edit the images after, providing final photos to the client in a timely manner.

Work Experience 2: Photo Editor

• Import photos from the photographer’s SD card or other file-storing methods.
• Provide light editing to all included photos to send to the client for review.
• Complete more advanced edits of the photos the client wants, following company editing processes.
• Return photos to the client in a timely manner, accepting requests for further edits as necessary.
• Stay up-to-date with the features and processes in Adobe Photoshop and other photo editing software.

Project Experience

• In a small business pitch competition, pitched a photography business idea aimed at photography for new mothers.
• Partnered up with a local mom-and-pop shop for a day of small photoshoots to help drive customers to the business.
• Participated in a photography competition and used skills to produce some of my best work.

Skills

• Scheduling software
• Negotiation and payment processing
• Time management
• Ability to speak to people
• DSLR camera usage

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Photography with a minor in Marketing: University of Arizona
• Certificate in Photography: Mesa Community College

Licenses & Accreditations

• Adobe Digital Learning Services, Photoshop Certification
• Arizona driver’s license

Why This Resume Works

This resume showcases how the photographer can work both alone and as part of a team. The first work experience listed is of the photographer as a freelancer. Meanwhile, the second job shows how the photographer is also skilled in editing and post-production.

In the “Project Experience” section, the resume includes a few listings. One of those listings is for a very unique project where the photographer helped bring awareness to a local business. This showcases how they’re able to work with others.

The photographer uses their education section to highlight formal photography training. They also mention a minor in marketing, which is a crucial skill when working on a contract basis. Finally, they have a driver’s license, so they can drive to different photoshoot locations.

You should model your resume after this if you’re looking for contract work. You can show a studio what you can do and how you can help them build their business.

Creative Photographer Resume Example

Creative photographers use props and other tools to produce images that you won’t find anywhere else. While they don’t always work with people, they may still want to apply for a creative photography job and will need a resume.

Objective

To leverage my creativity, technical skills, and passion for photography to produce visually stunning and unique images that capture the essence of a wide range of subjects.

Seeking a challenging and dynamic role that allows me to push the boundaries of traditional photography and contribute to the growth and success of a progressive organization.

Work Experience 1: Freelance Photographer

• Plan projects with the client, including making a list of shots to take as well as what props to use.
• Schedule the venue or location, arriving early to the set to set up lighting and other photography equipment.
• Make the client and other photo subjects feel comfortable during the shoot, offering breaks as necessary.
• Use editing software to adjust the contrast and other elements of the photos from the shoot.
• Provide proofs and final images to the clients, completing edit requests as needed.

Work Experience 2: Photojournalist

• Follow the local news to learn of upcoming events that could use photo coverage.
• Pitch photojournalism ideas to the editor-in-chief, accepting assignments of approved events.
• Arrive at assigned events early to set up, stay for the length of the event to take as many pictures as possible.
• Compile photos from the event into editing software to develop a collage or to print individual images as necessary.
• Submit final work to the editor for review, making changes as requested.

Project Experience

• Participated in a local creative photography competition, placing first in my age division.
• Started a local photography course for kids, handing off the course to other photography instructors.
• Opened a virtual art gallery of creative photography for users to purchase from all over the world.

Skills

• Color theory
• DSLR cameras
• Use of professional lighting
• Photo editing abilities
• Project management

Education

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts with a concentration in Photography: Columbia University
• Central High School, class of 2012

Licenses & Accreditations

• State High School Journalism Award, first place in photojournalism

Why This Resume Works

Creative photography jobs are few and far between. This resume highlights how this particular photographer can be creative to help them land their dream job. In the work section, they mention freelance work, which covers being independent.

Between the work and project sections, the resume also showcases the applicant’s photojournalism skills, which is a type of creative photography. They also share in their project section how they’ve started to sell their own images online.

Meanwhile, the skills section highlights the hard skills required of a photographer. The education section also showcases how the applicant went to an art school and how they focused on photography as a student.

You should use this resume as a model if you’re looking for a creative position or to work as a photojournalist. It has a good objective and lists a variety of skills and experiences.

Wedding Photographer Resume Example

Working as a wedding photographer can be stressful, but you can also capture the happiest day of someone’s life. Like freelancers, many wedding photographers will use portfolios over resumes.

However, you can still benefit from a resume when applying for a traditional job.

Objective

To utilize my passion and expertise in wedding photography to capture timeless and unforgettable moments for couples on their special day.

Seeking a challenging and creative role that allows me to showcase my artistic skills and attention to detail, while delivering exceptional service and building strong relationships with clients.

Work Experience 1: Freelance Photographer

• Find and connect with potential clients to discuss and pitch photography services.
• Schedule a consultation and the event, communicating with the client about the shots they want to take.
• Use natural lighting and professional lighting as necessary to capture posed and candid photos throughout the event.
• Edit images after the event using professional editing software, sending images to the client for final approval.
• Send invoice to the client upon rendering of services, minus any deposits made earlier.

Work Experience 2: Senior Portrait Photographer

• Schedule clients based on the day and time that works best for all parties.
• Head to the photoshoot location early to scout the best backdrop and set up the tripod, camera, and any lighting.
• Make the client feel at ease during the photo shoot, talking or not talking, depending on the client’s preference.
• Work with any desired props the client wants in some or all of their portrait shots.
• Edit photos after the photo shoot and send them to the client for final approval.

Project Experience

• Set up a photoshoot at a local part for newly engaged couples looking for pictures on a budget.
• Helped a local art gallery improve its interior lighting to make it a more popular venue for photoshoots.
• Edited wedding photos taken by other photographers to learn the style that couples want.

Skills

• Interpersonal communication
• Time management
• Knowledge of lighting
• Ability to stay calm under pressure
• Adobe Photoshop editing

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Photography with a minor in Communication: Michigan State University

Licenses & Accreditations

• Adobe Digital Learning Services, Photoshop Certification
• The Knot Photographer

Why This Resume Works

This resume starts with a clear objective to work as a wedding photographer. The work experience section shows how the applicant can work alone. Additionally, their experience with senior portraits shows they can take specialized images.

In the project section, the candidate mentions how they’ve taken engagement photos. While they’re not the same as wedding photos, they have the same ideal client. Meanwhile, the skills all focus on important skills for a wedding vendor, from staying calm to taking good photos.

Along with training in Photoshop, the resume shares that the photographer has a listing on The Knot, the most popular wedding website. A presence there shows that the photographer knows what goes into photographing a wedding.

You should use this resume as a template when applying for a wedding photography gig. Swap out the experiences with your own to personalize it.

Product Photographer Resume Example

More and more brands need photos of their products. While this used to be a job reserved for top photographers, even amateurs can make a career out of it. If you want to get into this field, consider how to format your resume.

Objective

To leverage my creative and technical skills as a Product Photographer and contribute to the growth of a dynamic and innovative organization.

Seeking a challenging role that allows me to utilize my photography skills to capture the essence of products and enhance their visual appeal, while working collaboratively with a team of professionals.

Work Experience 1: UGC Creator

• Take photos and videos featuring branded products for the brand to use on their social media.
• Edit photos to fit the brand’s style guide and image standards using Canva or other editing software.
• Work with natural light and artificial light (as necessary) to capture products in the best possible light.
• Use the front and back cameras on a smartphone when photographing products with or without oneself in the image.
• Send photos with a watermark to the brand for final approval, removing the watermark upon payment.

Work Experience 2: Pet Photographer

• Coordinate photoshoots with clients, from the schedule to the venue location.
• Set up lighting and camera equipment before the shoot is set to begin.
• Provide props and toys to keep the subjects in the frame and looking good.
• Take multiple shots of the subjects and from different angles.
• Review the footage and photos later, editing the photos as needed in professional editing software.

Project Experience

• Develop a product photography portfolio using brands currently available in my home.
• Create a new Instagram account showcasing work as a product photographer, using the account to connect with potential clients.
• Work with local businesses to take pictures of their products.

Skills

• People skills
• Knowledge of natural and artificial lighting
• Able to use a smartphone or DSLR
• Experience with different editing software
• Client relationship management

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Art: Missouri State University
• Canva Design School

Licenses & Accreditations

• Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate

Why This Resume Works

This resume showcases some traditional photography experience via pet photography. That experience can translate to photographing products. However, it also covers a newer form of photography, user-generated content (UGC).

That helps show employers this photographer is willing to keep up with changing trends. The product section covers how the applicant has developed a portfolio and how they’ve partnered with brands to capture images of their products.

While many photographers have a degree in art, this example uses a marketing degree. For product photography, understanding marketing is vital. The applicant also has training on how to use Canva and Meta for digital marketing, which they can use for more than just photography.

If you’re new to photography, this is a great example resume. It shows that you don’t need a fancy camera or degree to get started. You should take inspiration from this resume if you want to capture products in their best light.

Common Skills & Action Verbs To Include on a Photographer Resume

When writing your photographer’s resume, it’s important to use the right words. A simple switch to a synonym could turn a good resume into an excellent one. You can use a lot of the same skills and action verbs regardless of the photography job.

Either way, focus on skills you already have so that your application is unique and honest. That way, you’ll set yourself up for a successful hiring process. From people skills to an artistic eye, you should consider what skills to highlight in your application.

Common Skills for Photographer Resumes

• Communication
• Creativity
• Adobe Lightroom
• Adobe Photoshop
• Lighting
• Digital photography
• Portrait photography
• Smartphone photography
• Graphic design
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
• Stress management
• Image editing
• Collaboration
• Detail-oriented
• Negotiation
• Computer literacy
• Teamwork
• Image composition
• Color theory

Common Action Verbs for Photographer Resumes

• Collaborate
• Coordinate
• Enhance
• Develop
• Evaluate
• Drive
• Design
• Implement
• Manage
• Perform
• Partner
• Support
• Conduct
• Analyze
• Plan

Tips for Writing a Better Photographer Resume

When applying for your dream job, you have your work cut out for you. Don’t just submit your existing resume. Instead, consider the following tips to make sure your resume is the best it can possibly be.

1. Tailor It to the Job

One of the best things you can do is tailor your resume to the specific job. Review the job description for the role you’re applying for. Then, you can make sure to use the same wording in your resume.

You’ll also know what experiences and skills you should highlight. And reviewing the job description can help you form a cohesive yet unique objective statement. That can help you catch the eye of the hiring manager.

Submitting the same basic resume to every job might get you a few interviews. However, it’s worth it to spend a few extra minutes to customize your resume each time.

2. Proofread the Document

Every time you edit your resume, there’s a chance you’ll make a few spelling or grammatical errors. So before you send the file, proofread it for mistakes. Be especially careful to spell the company name correctly if you include it in the objective.

If you want to take this a step further, ask a friend or family member to read it. A second set of eyes may catch any mistakes you miss when proofreading your own resume. You can also make the edits and proofread the resume the next morning before submitting your application.

Either way, spend a few minutes reading through everything. Not only can this help you catch mistakes, but you can verify that your resume is best suited for the job in question.

3. Show Off Your Creativity

You’re a photographer, not an accountant. Don’t be afraid to do a little bit with the formatting to make your resume more creative. While you shouldn’t go overboard, you can do a few small things to keep your document from looking boring.

For example, maybe you change the color of the text for the objective. You could also bold the headings for each listing in your work experience. This can be especially important when applying as a creative photographer.

4. Link to a Portfolio

Your resume is great, but many hiring managers want to see what you can do with a camera and some editing software. Set up a portfolio either on your own website or through something like Google Drive.

When sending a resume via email, include a link to your portfolio page. If you have to submit a paper resume, use a link shortener or a QR code. That way, the hiring manager can still view your portfolio without having to type in a long URL.

Make it as easy as possible for the employer to view examples of your work. Be sure to update your portfolio regularly as well.

And if you’re applying to multiple types of photography jobs, create a portfolio for each one, such as one wedding portfolio and one product portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re still unsure how to make your photographer resume stand out, consider the following queries.

Similar Resume Types To Reference

As you decide what to include in your photographer resume, you might want to look at similar resume examples. That way, you can set yourself up for a more versatile job in design, marketing, or another industry.

• Graphic Design Resume: A graphic design resume features a lot of the same things, such as industry skills and knowledge of relevant software.
• Marketing Resume: When applying to work in marketing, it helps to showcase your business acumen, and the same is true of a product photography job.
• Production Assistant Resume: A production assistant helps a photographer complete a successful shoot, and many of the skills transfer between both roles.

Wrapping Up

Hunting for a job can be stressful, and the last thing you want to think about is updating your photographer resume. However, a better resume could mean the difference between receiving no interviews and landing your dream job.

Whether you’re new to photography or want to change to a different type of photography, you should consider what goes on a successful resume. That way, you can use an example to inspire your own document.

What do you think of these resumes and tips? Share your thoughts down in the comments.