>

By Douglas Lewis


Today, photography is a part of daily life for most people around the world. In the past, photography was a hobby that most people took seriously. Some used it as a way of making some money on the side while other used it as their main source of livelihood. Today, almost everyone in developed and developing countries have some form of smartphone with which they can use to take shots anywhere they are.

It is also possible to install formatting software in smartphones so that photos taken can be edited to enhance color and other aspects of the photos. People share the photos they take and edit on social media such as Facebook and instagram. However, the presence of smartphones and the ability to take and edit photos does not make everyone a professional photographer. In Dallas portrait photographer has to undergo training and perfect the trade through years of experience.

The field of photography does not involve taking photos only. It entails a clear career path, specialized knowledge, use of equipment, and a business model. One needs specialized knowledge in lighting, use of different equipment, staging, shadows, and an eye for angles and images.

Like most artistic jobs, there is no definite way of becoming a professional in photography. People take different paths, but end up in the same job. The first step in becoming a professional in photography is deciding the kind of photographer one would like to become. The various types are photojournalists, scientific photographers, commercial photographers, industrial photographers, portrait photographers, and fine arts photographers.

In most cases, portrait photographers work in studios. Clients visiting the studios can have their image taken on various backgrounds. Where necessary, pictures can be printed and placed in frames according to the preferences of the client. Portrait photographers also leave their studios to meet with clients in schools, offices, homes, and parks among other places. They sometimes have to take photos while on such meetings.

Portrait photographers have several responsibilities in their line of work. Once the professional meets with a client in need of photographs, they take time to discuss the kind of images needed and what they will be used for. They also make suggestion on how to achieve the best images for the specific purpose one needs them for. Where necessary, they arrange still life objects, scenes, backgrounds, props, and products for photo shooting.

Photographers also liaise with other professionals to achieve the requirements of the client or other individuals. Some of the professionals they liaise with include art directors, commissioning editors, gallery managers, graphic designers, picture researchers, and writers. During the shoot, they communicate with photographic subjects, put them at ease, encourage them, and direct them.

Entering this field does not necessarily require one to be holder of a degree. However, to gain more clients and to build a reputation, having a degree would be better. Degree options available to people are many and diverse. They include graphics, photography, fine art, media studies, digital imaging, and art and design.




About the Author: