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Find out what to expect in photography jobs.

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Industry Trends for Photography Jobs

A little healthy competition never hurt anyone—which is a good thing, since aspiring photographers should expect to face just that when looking for photography jobs. Employment in the field is increasing at an average rate (about 10 percent between 2006 and 2016). However, this is somewhat offset by the large number of people who are seeking photography jobs. Whether you're just starting out in the business or trying to market yourself to potential clients, competition is a standard part of photography jobs. With an estimated 122,000 working photographers in the U.S. in 2006, photography clients have many options available to them.

Salaried Photography Jobs vs. Self-Employment

Over half of these 122,000 photographers were self-employed according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, there are benefits to both self-employment and working in salaried photography jobs. Here are some factors to consider before you choose which option is better for you:

Artistic Control – Even the most independent photographers will have to consider their clients' needs, ideas and vision for a project if they want to make a living. However, as a self-employed photographer, you'll have more artistic control. You'll be able to accept the photography jobs that interest you and turn down the ones that don't. And because clients will choose to work with you based on your unique style, they may be more likely to allow you greater creative influence on a project.
Schedule – Self-employed photographers generally have more flexible hours than those in salaried photography jobs. They set up their own photo shoots and work toward meeting client deadlines on their own schedule. Salaried photographers are more likely to have a typical 40-hour week during regular business hours. This rule, however, doesn't apply to all kinds of photography. For instance, photojournalists often work all hours to capture images and stories as they occur.
Overhead Expenses – If you own your own photography business, you will have to provide and maintain your own equipment, rent studio and office space, and hire any necessary support staff—all of which can be major expenses. While some of these expenses (such as equipment rental for a project you're working on) may be passed on to the client, you'll be responsible for the day-to-day operations and expenses of your photography business. Salaried photographers on the other hand, will have access to company equipment, studio and office space, and support staff.
Customer Base - Self-employed photographers will have to learn to market themselves and find their own clients. A good photography portfolio is essential to this process. Salaried photographers will rely on their companies to find customers and assign projects.

Photography Industry Developments

There can be no question that the photography industry is changing. With digital photography equipment increasing in quality and dropping in price, photography is becoming more accessible than ever to the general public. While the digital trend may seem to add an interesting twist to the already competitive photography marketplace, professional photographers continue to be in demand. Technology is opening up new opportunities for photographers. For instance, the demand for stock photography is growing. Companies on the web are constantly looking for high-quality photos to enhance their content and design.

As technology grows and changes, the photography industry will continue to change to incorporate new methods and equipment and accommodate new demands in the marketplace.