Task 2a- Initial Research.

Initial Research.

General Practice or Social Photographer. (High Street Photographer).

This job role combines a blend of social, advertising, commercial and industrial photography. The role is commissioned by private individuals, small businesses and local organisations. It is often the case that the GP will work from a studio located in a town centre or in some cases the photographer will set up a temporary studio in places such as department stores or supermarkets. There are also other day to day roles that a GP will do, for example they will go to events such as weddings and parties to take photos for a client. They do mostly portrait photography. 

If you are willing to be a general practice photographer you need to be well organised, practical and versatile. You need to have good business and administrative skills, strong motivation and self confidence so you can promote yourself widely. GP's must be able to master a wide range of different areas and styles of photography, and the related lighting techniques. You also need to keep up to date with all the latest digital processes and image manipulation software, and take full advantage of this because the software is rapidly eveloving. Customer expectations can be very high, this means that you will  need excellent communication skills. They need to have crowd control skills, they need to have common sense in all interactions with their subjects, as well as being punctual and well mannered. 

No set academic qualifications are required to work as a GP. Though it is advised to take a course such as 'The Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE) offered by the BIPP. GP's also need to understand health and safety legislation. 

Most GP's start out by assisting an established photographer and learn the job. This provides experience. It gives the opportunity to meet clients, art directors, models etc. The starting out wages are usually 12,000+ per year.


Fashion Photographer -Catalogue.

The role of the fashion photographer is to photograph garments and interpret the underling ideas and associations suggested by  the season, range of clothes, the designer or the design brand. This job role requires you to work both in studios and on location to produce eye-catching photos that advertise clothing, accessories and lifestyle. As a fashion photographer you need to understand each clients brand image. You will also be required to work with other creative people to fulfil a brief. The client will supply your studio for you. 

Fashion photography requires you to immerse yourself totally in the world of fashion and develop outstanding creative and technical skills. This will give your photos individual character. You need to be a good employee and a reliable team player. You have to be hard working and able to maintain to employers' confidentiality agreements. You need good communication and organisation skills. You need to be able to control studio or location situations where the photographer, assistants, models, stylists, make-up artists and hairdressers all need to work together towards a common goal. 

Some colleges and universities offer courses that specialise in fashion photography. Many catalogue photographers start out by assisting an established photographer. You also need a good understanding of health and safety. 


Most fashion photographers earn around £17,010 and £32,500 a year.

Assistsant Photographer.

Assistant photographers must be prepared to do whatever is necessary to ensure that a photo shoot runs smoothly. This usually involves preparing sets, checking equipment, setting up lighting and accessories, taking meter readings, transmitting files and transporting prints to and from labs. 

You need to be organised and practical. You need excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You need to have good office skills and be able to perform in a polite and professional manner. 

A college qualification cannot guarantee employment. Prospective employers normally expect to see a portfolio of photographs. This usually consists of 10 to 15 photos that show that you have a wide range of skills. You need to have an understanding of health and safety.