Range of ways to increase chances of getting work
Opportunities are good for experienced photographers with a good reputation and a range of clients but average for new photographers as there is high competition for vacancies.
However, most photographers work part time, and supplement their income with other work.
You can increase your chances of getting a job if you:
- have a creative portfolio
- market yourself well
- can produce innovative work by experimenting with digital photography techniques
- have good knowledge of computer software packages like Lightroom and Photoshop
- specialise in a particular area of photography such as medical photography, engagements, weddings, births or journalism
- belong to and network with members of a professional body such as the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) or the Photographic Society of NZ.
According to the Census, 2,244 photographers worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Most photographers self-employed
Most photographers are freelancers. Some photographers work as employees for established photographic companies while selling their own work on commission and gaining business skills.
Photographers may also work for:
- photographic agencies
- news agencies
- newspaper and magazine publishers
- shops that offer photo processing
- tertiary institutions that require photography teachers
- hospitals and the police.
