Photojournalists document people and events, usually for news stories, but sometimes also for feature stories. Though photojournalists are usually still photographers, videographers, documentary filmmakers, and various video and film artists may also consider themselves to be photojournalists. Many specialize in specific areas, such as sports, entertainment, foreign policy, war, nature, travel, or crime. Most often their photographs accompany news stories, but photojournalists try to capture the moments that speak for themselves.

Average Salary:

$24,040

Average Hours (per week):

Photojournalists work in publishing, news gathering, government, advertising, and other fields. Travel is frequently required, sometimes over long stretches.  The hours are extremely erratic.

Union:

None

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

A college degree in journalism and/or photography, or some related field is necessary. Most photojournalists can get good training not only in college classes but working on the school newspaper and yearbook. A strong liberal arts degree with an emphasis on history, social sciences, political science, with art and art history courses is recommended. Most photojournalists begin as assistants. It is important to try to get an internship with a newspaper or magazine. Many news gathering organizations require some form of formal training and a minimum of a few years of journalism experience.

Strongest Market(s):

Changes in the publishing industry because of the advent of strong Internet news sites suggest short-term freelance and contract work are becoming common. Electronic digital image processing and manipulation are growth areas.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals start around $7.32 per hour.

Top Salary:

$49,920

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be stagnant.

Related posts:

1. Broadcast News Analysts
2. Photographers
3. Reporters and Correspondents
4. Film and Video Editors
5. Editors