How to Become a Photographer for a Newspaper
- 1). Complete your high school degree first before seeking admission to a journalism or photography school. You generally must have a college degree to work as a photojournalist or photographer at a newspaper. A high school graduate with good grades is likely to be admitted to a good college. Good grades can also earn you a scholarship.
- 2). Apply for a place at a college offering photography or photojournalism once you graduate from high school. Many universities, colleges and vocational training institutes offer courses in photography. Such courses usually cover lessons on how to handle equipment as well as techniques on taking pictures. In a four-year program you may have to take courses in humanities as well.
- 3). Find internships during breaks from college to gain experience. Look out for advertised internships at your school's notice board or on journalism networking websites. Apart from experience, internships provide you with an opportunity to meet future employers. Network and get as many contacts as possible.
- 4). Get a job as an assistant photographer at a newspaper when you graduate from college. Put your portfolio together of images you've taken or had published during your internships. When you show potential during your stint as an intern, some organizations might be interested in giving you a full time job when you graduate.
- 5). Find a freelance photographer who might be interested in having an assistant. This is another option when you don't have experience. When you work as an assistant, it doesn't mean you will be carrying the photographer's equipment. Usually, you work with the photographer to take pictures. The photographer also delegates some of the assignments. This teaches you how to work as a freelancer, then you can apply for a freelance or full-time position once you gain enough experience.
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