7 Photographer Resume Examples That Work in 2025
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Deciding to start a photography career is a bold and exciting choice. Following in the footsteps of legends like Robert Capa, Annie Leibovitz, and Robert Mapplethorpe can be very inspiring. However, breaking into the art world takes more than raw talent—it requires perseverance, a bit of luck, and, most importantly, a resume that captures attention in an instant.
In this guide, you'll learn how to craft a photographer resume that could open the door to opportunities with renowned agencies like Magnum Photos. Keep reading to create a resume that makes an impact.
This guide will show you:
- A photographer resume example better than 9 out of 10 others.
- How to write a photography resume to get more interviews.
- Tips and examples of how to put achievements and skills on a photographer's resume.
- How to describe your experience on a resume for a photographer to get any gig you want.
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Are you more than “just” a photographer? See our related guides here:
- Marketing Resume
- Filmmaker Resume
- Cinematographer Resume
- Video Producer Resume
- Fashion Resume
- Resumes for 500+ Jobs
Below, you’ll find 7 different photographer resume examples for inspiration:
Photographer Resume Example
Michael Labonte
Photographer
(123) 456-7890
michael.labonte@email.com
linkedin.com/in/michael.labonte
Summary
Accomplished and experienced photographer passionate about creating dynamic visuals that capture the spirit of any subject. Seeking a photography position at FlashLens Productions to apply my expertise in color theory and digital imaging to help create stunning images that make an impact. Created a set of graphics for a country-wide marketing initiative for PhotoWonders Studios, which led to a 40% rise in sales.
Experience
Photographer
PhotoWonders Studios, Knoxville, TN
June 2020–Present
Key Qualifications & Responsibilities
- Utilized technical photography techniques such as depth of field, shutter speed, lighting, and composition to capture high-quality images for clients.
- Produced visuals for print media and online publication using Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom software programs.
- Collaborated with other photographers to develop innovative projects, resulting in unique visuals for business campaigns.
- Assisted production teams with setup during shoots to ensure seamless workflow operations.
Key Achievement:
- Created graphics for a project involving multiple clients from various industries, which resulted in a 40% increase in sales.
Photographer
Fusion Captures, Knoxville, TN
March 2018–June 2020
Key Qualifications & Responsibilities
- Mastered medium format digital cameras and editing software suites (Adobe Creative Cloud) to produce striking results.
- Crafted creative concepts for advertising campaigns that featured high-quality photographs as central elements.
- Managed communication between clients, photo editors, and art directors to keep workloads on schedule.
- Developed original ideas for photoshoots that showcased professional products or services in unique ways.
Key Achievement:
- Developed a series of visuals for a nationwide advertising campaign that resulted in a 40% increase in sales
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
September 2014–May 2018
Relevant extracurricular activities
- Member of the Photography Club, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow photographers on multiple projects.
- Received three awards from the University's annual photography competition.
Academic achievements:
- Graduated Cum Laude from The University Of Tennessee – Knoxville.
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, especially Photoshop and Lightroom
- Skilled with digital medium format cameras
- Strong eye for detail and composition
- Knowledge of color theory and lighting techniques
- Highly organized working style with clients
- Ability to capture the perfect moment while shooting on location or in studio settings
- Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
Certifications
- Professional Photography Certification, American Association of Professional Photographers, 2018
Awards
- The People's Choice, Southern Regional Photography Competition, 2019
Memberships
- Member of the Professional Photographer’s Association since 2019
Languages
- English—Native
- Spanish—Advanced
Interests
- Creating inspiring workspaces by combining contemporary styles with vintage elements
- Volunteering at local animal shelters
- Blogging about home décor inspiration
Photographer Resume Example for Freelancers
Sophie Andrews
Freelance Photographer
(555) 123-4567
sophie.andrews@email.com
linkedin.com/in/sophie-andrews
Summary
Client-focused freelance photographer with over 6 years of experience in portrait, product, and editorial photography. Successfully increased client satisfaction by 30% through delivering high-quality images ahead of deadlines and adapting to diverse project needs. Seeking to collaborate with new clients to create captivating visual stories that resonate with target audiences.
Experience
Freelance Photographer
Self-employed, New York, NY
April 2018–Present
- Provided photography services for over 50 clients across various sectors, including fashion, real estate, and food, with a 95% client retention rate.
- Delivered over 1,000 professional-quality images annually, meeting client specifications and tight deadlines.
- Implemented an efficient editing workflow, reducing post-production time by 20% while maintaining high standards for image quality.
- Grew social media following by 40%, attracting new clients through consistent branding and quality content.
Key Achievement:
- Completed a large-scale product shoot for a national retailer that increased their online sales by 25%.
Commercial Photographer
FocusVisions Studio, Brooklyn, NY
May 2016–March 2018
- Produced commercial photography for major brands, increasing ad campaign engagement by 15% through visually appealing product imagery.
- Collaborated with creative teams and art directors to create compelling marketing visuals aligned with brand goals.
- Directed photoshoots with teams of up to 10 people, ensuring smooth operations and timely delivery.
Key Achievement:
- Boosted a client’s advertising ROI by 20% with innovative visual content for their digital campaigns.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Photography
Parsons School of Design, New York, NY
Graduated: May 2016
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Capture One, ensuring top-quality photo editing, retouching, and color correction.
- Experienced in creating visually striking commercial and editorial images for various industries, including fashion and e-commerce.
- Skilled in using both natural and artificial lighting techniques to capture high-quality images in diverse environments.
- Highly organized in managing multiple client projects, delivering consistently high-quality results within tight deadlines.
Certifications
- Certified Professional Photographer, American Photographic Artists, 2021
Awards
- Best Freelance Photographer – NY Fashion Week, 2022
Interests
- Passionate about travel photography and exploring diverse cultures through a visual lens, often embarking on trips to expand creative inspiration.
- Enjoys street art and documenting urban environments, capturing the unique essence of everyday life.
Photographer Resume: Sample for School Photographers
David Carter
School Photographer
(444) 765-4321
david.carter@email.com
linkedin.com/in/david-carter
Summary
Passionate school photographer with 5 years of expertise in capturing portraits and group photos for students of all ages. Increased parent satisfaction by 35% by delivering high-quality photos that reflect each child’s personality. Seeking to continue producing engaging and memorable school photography.
Experience
School Photographer
BrightLens Photography, Boston, MA
September 2019–Present
- Photographed over 10,000 individual student portraits annually for various schools, maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rate.
- Introduced a streamlined photo day process, reducing setup time by 25% and increasing student throughput.
- Edited and retouched over 2,000 photos per month, ensuring high-quality and timely delivery to parents and yearbook committees.
- Collaborated with over 30 school administrators to create smooth and efficient photo sessions that met unique school schedules.
Key Achievement:
- Increased school contract renewals by 20% through delivering consistently high-quality images and excellent customer service.
Assistant Photographer
Memories First Studios, Providence, RI
June 2017–August 2019
- Assisted lead photographers during school photoshoots, managing lighting, equipment setup, and student organization.
- Edited and retouched an average of 500 images weekly, ensuring consistency and adherence to quality standards.
- Coordinated logistics for 15 schools annually, helping streamline the photo delivery process for parents.
Key Achievement:
- Helped increase yearbook photo sales by 15% by implementing new online ordering features for parents.
Education
Associate Degree in Photography
Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, RI
Graduated: May 2017
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, with expertise in portrait retouching and color correction for school photos.
- Skilled in organizing large-scale school photo sessions, and handling the logistics for over 10,000 portraits annually while meeting tight deadlines.
- Strong ability to manage and adapt to the needs of diverse school environments, working effectively with teachers, administrators, and students.
- Experienced in post-production workflows, ensuring timely delivery of final photos to parents, schools, and yearbook committees.
Certifications
- Certified School Photographer, National Association of School Photographers, 2020
Awards
- Best School Photography Portfolio, National Photographers Association, 2021
Interests
- Enjoys volunteering as a youth sports coach, integrating photography into team events to document key moments.
- Passionate about black-and-white photography, exploring artistic expression through timeless imagery.
Photographer Assistant Resume Example
Sophia Mason
Photographer Assistant
(222) 654-7890
sophia.mason@email.com
linkedin.com/in/sophia-mason
Summary
Dedicated photographer assistant with 2+ years of experience supporting professional photographers in studio and on-location shoots. Assisted in delivering 30% faster shoot setups and post-production by optimizing processes. Eager to contribute to a fast-paced photography team at ShutterVibe Studios to expand my technical skills and industry knowledge.
Experience
Photographer Assistant
ShutterWorks Studios, Los Angeles, CA
May 2023–Present
- Assisted in the preparation and execution of over 100 professional photoshoots per year, handling equipment setup and lighting adjustments.
- Organized and maintained inventory of over 200 photography tools and accessories, ensuring equipment availability for all projects.
- Managed post-shoot tasks, including sorting, editing, and delivering images to clients, reducing delivery times by 20%.
- Provided administrative support, booking and coordinating shoots for a team of three photographers.
Key Achievement:
- Increased workflow efficiency by 30% by implementing a digital filing system for all post-production tasks.
Intern Photographer Assistant
Visionary Photography, Santa Monica, CA
March 2022–April 2023
- Set up and adjusted lighting for fashion and commercial shoots, ensuring optimal image quality.
- Assisted photographers in image editing and retouching, handling up to 200 photos per week.
- Organized and transported photography equipment for location shoots, reducing setup time by 15%.
Key Achievement:
- Contributed to the success of a large-scale campaign for a fashion brand, resulting in a 25% increase in social media engagement.
Education
Diploma in Photography
California College of the Arts, San Francisco, CA
Graduated: January 2022
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Lightroom and Capture One, focusing on managing post-production workflows and meeting deadlines
- Experienced in setting up and managing professional lighting equipment for fashion, product, and portrait shoots
- Skilled in maintaining photography gear and troubleshooting equipment issues to ensure smooth operations during shoots
- Strong organizational skills, able to coordinate multiple projects and efficiently manage time-sensitive tasks
Certifications
- Photography Lighting Certification, Photography Institute, 2021
Languages
- English—Native
- Spanish—Intermediate
Interests
- Enthusiastic about travel and exploring different landscapes through photography, aiming to capture unique cultural experiences.
- Enjoys experimenting with vintage film cameras, and incorporating analog techniques into personal creative projects.
Photographer Resume Example: Commercial Photography
Rachel Klein
Commercial Photographer
(444) 789-1234
rachel.klein@email.com
linkedin.com/in/rachel-klein
Summary
Expert commercial photographer with over 7 years of experience creating impactful images for advertising and marketing campaigns. Increased client ROI by 25% through compelling product photography. Seeking to help brands achieve their marketing goals through visually striking commercial photography.
Experience
Commercial Photographer
StudioVision, New York, NY
June 2018–Present
- Delivered over 500 high-quality product and lifestyle images annually for leading national brands, increasing online conversion rates by 20%.
- Collaborated with creative directors and marketing teams to design visually impactful images that aligned with brand identity.
- Produced high-quality product images for e-commerce websites, reducing return rates by 15% through clear, detailed photography.
- Managed a team of two assistants, ensuring smooth photoshoot operations and timely delivery of images.
Key Achievement:
- Created a photo series for a major fashion retailer that resulted in a 30% increase in online sales.
Product Photographer
BrightLens Marketing, Brooklyn, NY
March 2015–May 2018
- Shot product images for online retailers and catalogs, leading to a 20% improvement in client sales.
- Produced detailed and aesthetically appealing images, resulting in a 15% reduction in product return rates due to accurate representation.
- Worked closely with product designers and stylists to ensure every item was portrayed in its best light.
- Introduced new lighting techniques that reduced post-production editing time by 25%.
Key Achievement:
- Photographed a new product line that garnered over 1 million impressions on social media in its first month.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, NY
Graduated: May 2015
Certifications
- Certified Commercial Photographer, Professional Photographers of America (PPA), 2020
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Capture One, and Lightroom, capable of delivering high-quality commercial and product photos.
- Experienced in using professional-grade studio lighting and equipment, enhancing product visual appeal, and reducing post-editing needs.
- Expertise in directing and managing commercial shoots, ensuring smooth operations, and meeting deadlines for client projects.
- Highly adept at client communication, delivering projects that align with marketing and brand objectives while improving ROI.
Languages
- English—Native
- German—Intermediate
Interests
- Passionate about food photography, often experimenting with new styles and creating visual stories for local culinary artists.
- Enjoys participating in photography exhibitions and mentoring up-and-coming commercial photographers.
Photographer Resume: Example for Event Photographers
Matthias Rivers
Event Photographer
(111) 987-6543
matthias.rivers@email.com
linkedin.com/in/matthias-rivers
Summary
Skilled event photographer with over 5 years of experience capturing live events, specializing in weddings and corporate events. Consistently boosted client satisfaction by 40% through creative, candid shots that capture the essence of each event. Seeking to contribute vast expertise to new clients and deliver exceptional event photography.
Experience
Event Photographer
ClearLens Events, Chicago, IL
July 2020–Present
- Photographed over 50 events per year, including weddings, corporate conferences, and gala dinners, with a 98% satisfaction rate from clients.
- Edited and delivered over 500 high-quality images per event, ensuring timely delivery and professional presentation.
- Increased client referral rate by 25% by providing outstanding customer service and memorable photo packages.
- Worked closely with event planners and coordinators to ensure seamless coverage of all important moments.
Key Achievement:
- Photographed a large corporate event for a Fortune 500 company, resulting in a 35% increase in engagement on their social media platforms.
Freelance Event Photographer
Self-employed, Chicago, IL
May 2017–July 2020
- Provided photography services for over 100 private and corporate events, achieving a 90% client retention rate.
- Grew client base by 20% annually through word-of-mouth marketing and referrals.
- Delivered high-quality, edited photo packages within three days for 95% of events, earning praise for quick turnaround times.
Key Achievement:
- Captured a high-profile wedding with over 300 guests, delivering 1,500 edited photos, and receiving a 5-star rating from the client.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Photography
School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Graduated: June 2017
Certifications
- Certified Event Photographer, Event Photographers International, 2021
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, skilled in editing and retouching large volumes of event photos under tight deadlines
- Expert in both candid and posed photography, capturing genuine moments and maintaining high client satisfaction rates
- Highly experienced in managing fast-paced events, including weddings, galas, and corporate functions, ensuring seamless coverage
- Exceptional client communication skills, able to understand client vision and deliver images that meet or exceed expectations
Awards
- Top Wedding Photographer, Chicago Wedding Awards, 2022
Hobbies
- Enjoys hiking and outdoor photography, incorporating nature into event photography wherever possible.
- An active member of a local photography group, participating in community exhibitions and discussions on visual storytelling.
Creative Photographer Resume Example
Isabella Rhodes
Creative Photographer
(333) 987-4567
isabella.rhodes@email.com
linkedin.com/in/isabella-rhodes
Summary
Innovative and artistic creative photographer with over 8 years of experience in producing conceptual and artistic photography. Increased client engagement by 40% through visually striking projects. Eager to continue blending art and photography in unique ways that captivate audiences.
Experience
Creative Photographer
VisualAlchemy, Los Angeles, CA
March 2019–Present
- Developed artistic concepts and executed visually stunning images for art exhibitions and commercial projects, increasing engagement by 40%.
- Collaborated with brands and artists to create imaginative, storytelling visuals that resonated with target audiences.
- Led creative projects for fashion, editorial, and conceptual photography, producing highly visual campaigns.
- Pushed boundaries of traditional photography using mixed media, innovative lighting techniques, and advanced editing.
Key Achievement:
- Produced a gallery series that was featured in three national publications and received over 10,000 visits.
Freelance Creative Photographer
Self-employed, Los Angeles, CA
April 2013–February 2019
- Conceptualized and shot personal and commissioned photography projects, often combining multiple art forms to deliver unique visuals.
- Collaborated with stylists, models, and makeup artists to produce editorial-worthy images.
- Managed the entire creative process from brainstorming to final delivery, handling post-production and client consultations.
Key Achievement:
- Developed a series of creative visuals for a magazine cover shoot, leading to a 35% increase in magazine subscriptions.
Education
Master of Fine Arts in Photography
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2013
Skills
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro, with advanced skills in photo manipulation and mixed media integration
- Skilled in conceptualizing creative photography projects, ensuring that each image tells a compelling story or conveys an artistic vision
- Experienced in combining traditional photography with digital art, leading to eye-catching and highly innovative visuals
- Able to lead and collaborate with creative teams, coordinating with stylists, models, and designers to achieve artistic goals
Awards
- Best Conceptual Photographer, LA Arts Awards, 2021
Interests
- Passionate about film-making and experimenting with video editing, combining video and photography to push creative boundaries.
- Exploring digital painting and graphic design, adding new dimensions to creative photography projects.
Now, here’s how to compose an appealing photographer resume:
1. Structure Your Photographer Resume Expertly
Your resume is the first snapshot employers or clients will see, and just like a well-composed photograph, it needs to capture attention instantly.
Whether you’re applying for a role in commercial photography, freelancing, or working events, the right resume structure is where you start drawing people’s attention. It also showcases your creativity, professionalism, and technical skills.
Here’s how to frame the perfect outline for your photographer resume:
- Use an easy-noticeable resume header containing key contact information.
- Include an attention-gaining resume objective or resume summary.
- Prepare a compelling work experience section that shows your key contributions.
- Add an education section that presents your schooling background.
- List all essential abilities and talents in a condensed skills section.
- Incorporate additional sections like certifications, awards, or projects.
But a perfect shot isn't just about the frame—it's also about the interplay of light, subjects, and composition. Here are some more tips to help you catch the eye of potential clients through a consistent resume layout and top-notch formatting:
- Start with the reverse-chronological format. This resume format highlights your most recent work first, which is essential for showing your current skills and relevant experience.
- Begin with a clear, well-organized resume header containing your name, phone number, email, and links to your portfolio or social media where your work can be seen.
- Keep the layout professional by using easy-to-read resume fonts, 1.15 line spacing, and even margins.
- Use bold, large headings for each section to ensure clarity.
- Save your resume as a PDF. This will keep your formatting in place and present your resume as clean and professional as your photography work.
Pro Tip: Make sure the offer allows PDFs. Some older Applicant Tracking Systems glitch out on photography resumes in PDF format.
2. Shed Light on Your Work Experience in the Photographer Resume
Your ability to capture stunning visuals and tell stories through your lens makes you a standout photographer. Now, it’s time to let potential clients or employers know you’re the professional they’ve been searching for.
Your work experience section is your portfolio in written form—one of the first things employers will examine to assess your expertise and creativity. So, how can you make the most of it?
Here’s how to prepare a standout work experience section that showcases your talent:
- Use reverse chronological order to list all your photographer roles, starting with the most recent position.
- For each entry, include your job title, company name, and dates of employment.
- Don’t just list routine photography tasks—focus on your most impactful achievements. Present your accomplishments in up to 6 bullet points per role, and quantify them whenever possible (e.g., increasing client satisfaction or driving sales through visuals).
- Tailor your experience to the specific role you’re applying for. Highlight the projects and skills that align with the job description.
- Use strong action words to convey your contributions and successes in each role.
The best quality to have on a resume as a photographer is diversity of work. I’ve gotten a lot of jobs with bigger companies because they see variety in my work.
Not sure how to craft the bullet points for your resume? Follow the PAR (Problem-Action-Result) formula:
- Problem: Identify a challenge you encountered in your photography work.
- Action: Explain the actions you took to address the situation.
- Result: Highlight the tangible results you achieved.
Now, let’s explore some examples so you can confidently structure each job description in your photographer resume.
Photographer Resume Example: Experienced Photographer Job Description
| RIGHT |
|---|
Freelance Photographer Self-employed, New York, NY April 2018–Present
Key Achievement:
|
| WRONG |
|---|
Freelance Photographer Self-employed April 2018–Present
|
The first example shines because it’s specific and results-driven. It quantifies achievements (50 clients, 1,000 images, 40% social growth) and highlights a clear business impact, like boosting a retailer's sales by 25%. This makes the experience tangible and impressive.
The second example falls short because it’s too vague. It lacks numbers, specific outcomes, and clear achievements, leaving the reader with little sense of the photographer's impact or scale of work. It just reads flat and unconvincing in comparison.
Photographer Resume Example: Entry-Level Photographer Job Description
| RIGHT |
|---|
Intern Photographer Assistant Visionary Photography, Santa Monica, CA March 2022–April 2023
Key Achievement:
|
| WRONG |
|---|
Intern Photographer Assistant Visionary Photography March 2022–April 2023
Key Achievement:
|
The right example works well because it highlights active involvement and real contributions, like managing 200 photos weekly. It points out specific improvements, such as cutting setup time by 15%, and clearly links the candidate's work to measurable results. This demonstrates that the intern was a key part of the team, with concrete accomplishments to back it up.
The wrong example falls flat. Words like “learned” and “occasionally” make the candidate seem less engaged. It doesn't provide any numbers, so it's hard to gauge the level of their contributions. Plus, the key achievement, “recognized by the boss,” is too vague and subjective.
Read more: Presenting Your Work Experience on a Resume—Full Guide
Making a resume with our builder is incredibly simple. Follow our step-by-step guide, use ready-made content tailored to your job and have a resume ready in minutes.
When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.
3. Present Educational Background in Your Photographer Resume
While your portfolio often speaks loudest in the photography world, your education is still a key resume element that represents your technical skills and artistic talent. Your education is another way to show your commitment to the work and your readiness for professional opportunities.
- If you’ve been in the field for a while, a brief mention of your highest degree, along with the school name and graduation date, is usually enough to show your academic background.
- If you’re new to the profession, your education can play a more significant role. Highlight relevant courses, photography workshops, or any creative subjects that helped build your skills. If you earned honors or participated in any photography clubs or projects, be sure to mention those as well.
Photographer Resume Example: Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
September 2014–May 2018
Relevant extracurricular activities
- Member of the Photography Club, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow photographers on multiple projects.
- Received three awards from the University's annual photography competition.
Academic achievements:
- Graduated Cum Laude from The University Of Tennessee – Knoxville.
Pro Tip: If you’re still studying, you can still mention your unfinished education on your resume. Check our detailed guide on how to do that: How to Include Unfinished College Degree on Resume
4. Showcase Your Expertise in the Skills Section
Your eye for detail and creative instincts are unmatched; you can transform a simple scene into a piece of art. Now, focus that same creative energy on your photography resume and impress potential employers with your skills.
By reviewing 11 million resumes made in our builder, we discovered that:
- Photographers include an average of 15 skills on their resumes.
- Among the top skills frequently listed by photographers are photo editing, retouching and color correction, client relations, Adobe Photoshop, and strong exposure techniques.
- Photographers tend to create resumes spanning about 2 pages in length.
So, how do you get recruiters eager to book a job interview with you?
- Start by reviewing the job ad carefully and treat it like a cheat sheet, filled with keywords that reflect the exact skills they’re seeking.
- Take a close look at your own work experience and coursework to identify both the technical and artistic skills you’ve honed over the years.
Now, compile a list of your most relevant skills, which might look something like this:
Sample Photographer Skills
- Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Capture One
- Expertise in studio lighting and natural light setups
- Strong eye for composition, color theory, and framing
- Experience with product, portrait, and event photography
- Photo retouching and editing skills
- Advanced camera operation (DSLR, mirrorless)
- Digital and analog photography techniques
- Time management and project coordination
- Attention to detail and creative problem-solving
- Communication and collaboration skills for working with clients and teams
- Social media content creation and visual storytelling
- Experience with post-production and photo delivery workflows
- Adaptability in fast-paced environments or high-pressure shoots
- Ability to direct models and subjects effectively
- Visual branding and marketing photography
These are exemplary photographer skills to inspire you. Now, it’s time to tailor them to a specific job offer. Compare this list with the job description and select 5–10 soft and hard skills that align most closely with the role’s requirements.
Photographer Skills: Resume Example
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Capture One, and Lightroom, capable of delivering high-quality commercial and product photos.
- Experienced in using professional-grade studio lighting and equipment, enhancing product visual appeal and reducing post-editing needs.
- Expertise in directing and managing commercial shoots, ensuring smooth operations, and meeting deadlines for client projects.
- Highly adept at client communication, delivering projects that align with marketing and brand objectives while improving ROI.
Pro Tip: Don’t just list skills—demonstrate them through your achievements in previous roles. For example, if you're highlighting “collaboration skills,” mention a successful project you completed by working closely with a team or client.
5. Make Your Photographer Resume Stand Out With Additional Sections
Additional resume sections are like the final touches you add to a photograph to make it truly stand out. So, how can you use these extra sections to make your photographer's resume shine?
If you’re an experienced photographer, highlight industry-specific achievements. Have you showcased your work in exhibitions, received awards, or spoken at photography workshops? Make sure to include these.
Promote your skills and experience in social media marketing, web, and print marketing. Most importantly, put a link to your online portfolio in your resume. Make sure the portfolio is well-polished, because it’s the true showcase of your work.
To further impress potential employers or clients, consider getting relevant certifications, such as Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) or photography certifications from recognized organizations like the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).
If you’re just starting in photography, you might think these extra sections aren’t for you—but they’re even more important! Use this space to feature academic awards, creative hobbies and interests related to visual arts, photography competitions you’ve participated in, or volunteer work involving photography. These details will showcase your passion for the craft, even without extensive experience.
Photographer Resume Samples: Additional Sections
Certifications
- Certified School Photographer, National Association of School Photographers, 2020
Awards
- Best School Photography Portfolio, National Photographers Association, 2021
Interests
- Enjoys volunteering as a youth sports coach, integrating photography into team events to document key moments.
- Passionate about black-and-white photography, exploring artistic expression through timeless imagery.
Pro Tip: If you're just starting out, don't underestimate the power of personal projects. Include photography-related hobbies, side projects, or volunteer work in your additional sections. These can set you apart and show potential employers or clients that photography is more than just a job for you.
6. Come up With a Captivating Photographer Resume Objective or Summary
To grab a recruiter’s attention from the start, your resume’s personal profile needs to make a strong impression—exactly like a standout photograph. This section is your chance to spotlight the skills and achievements that make you a standout photographer.
In just 3–6 sentences, a personal profile (also known as a resume summary or objective) should give a snapshot of your most relevant experience and talents. Always tailor it to the specific photography job you're targeting, ensuring it reflects what the employer is looking for.
Here’s how to choose the right approach:
- If you're a newcomer or transitioning into photography, a resume objective works best. Focus on your skills, creativity, and potential to show what you bring to the table.
- A resume summary is the right choice for seasoned photographers. It highlights your top achievements, notable projects, and industry experience, giving recruiters a clear view of your expertise and the value you’ll bring to their team.
To write an excellent summary or objective for your photography resume, follow the below formula:
Adjective + Job Title + Years of Experience + Achievements + Skills + What You Want to Do for the Employer
Start with a compelling adjective that captures you as a professional photographer. Then, follow with your job title. As you prepare your personal profile, review your resume and pinpoint your most notable work or academic achievements.
If you're writing a resume summary, include how many years of experience you have, and highlight 2–3 of your most impressive projects or accomplishments. For a resume objective, focus on your most relevant skills (including transferable ones) and academic achievements instead of extensive experience.
In both cases, wrap up by explaining how you’ll bring value to the company or clients you’re applying to. See the examples below to see how this comes together for real-world applications.
Photographer Resume Summary Examples
| RIGHT |
|---|
| Skilled event photographer with over 5 years of experience capturing live events, specializing in weddings and corporate events. Consistently boosted client satisfaction by 40% through creative, candid shots that capture the essence of each event. Seeking to contribute vast expertise to new clients and deliver exceptional event photography. |
| WRONG |
|---|
| Photographer with some experience in taking pictures at various events. I sometimes manage to get decent shots, depending on the lighting and mood of the event. Hoping to get more gigs and improve my photography skills by working with new clients. Looking to avoid stressful environments like weddings and corporate events. |
Personally, I wouldn’t hire the person with the wrong summary because their lack of confidence and desire to avoid challenging events make them seem unreliable. On the contrary, the right summary showcases a skilled, experienced professional I can trust for high-stakes photography.
Photographer Resume Objective Examples
| RIGHT |
|---|
| Enthusiastic and detail-oriented photography assistant with a strong passion for visual storytelling. Eager to learn and contribute to a professional photography team by assisting with studio setups, equipment handling, and on-location shoots. Looking to develop technical skills and gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment at Horizon Visuals Studios. |
| WRONG |
|---|
| I don’t have much experience in photography, but I like taking pictures and want to learn more. I’m hoping to find a job where I can get better at using a camera and maybe help out with some shoots. Not sure what to expect, but willing to give try at Horizon Visuals Studios. |
See, the right objective is polished, enthusiastic, and focused on the candidate’s passion for learning and contributing to a professional team. At the same time, the wrong one lacks confidence and professionalism. Phrases like “I don’t have much experience” and “maybe help out” make the candidate sound uncertain and unprepared. The lack of specificity and clear intent makes it unlikely to grab attention.
Pro Tip: Focus on confidence and enthusiasm in your resume objective, even if you have little experience. Highlight your eagerness to learn and contribute, and avoid self-doubt or uncertainty in your wording.
7. Write a Cover Letter to Support Your Photographer’s Resume
When applying for a photography job, it's a given that you’ll send a resume. But if you think skipping the cover letter saves time, think again. While some recruiters may not emphasize cover letters, many still expect to receive them—even if the job posting says it’s optional.
Your goal is to distinguish yourself from thousands of other talented photographers. Describe your technique and let your personality shine through. Describing your technique in writing shows you’re experienced. Exposing your personality will let the editor or hiring manager see you’re fun to work with and enjoyable to be around.
Don’t undermine your photographer's resume by skipping this crucial step. A well-crafted cover letter complements your resume and allows you to show why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Keep it concise, avoid repeating your resume, and highlight how your skills and passion make you an asset to the company.
A strong cover letter can be the lens that focuses on your career success. Always include one, as it’s just as essential as your camera is to capture the ideal shot!
Read more: How to Write an Excellent Cover Letter?
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
Key Takeaway
Here’s a recap of how to write a photographer's resume that balances the right elements:
- Formatyour resume in reverse chronological order to showcase your most recent experience first.
- Highlight your work experience, focusing on accomplishments and results instead of just listing tasks.
- Include your education, and expand on it if you have limited professional experience.
- Showcase relevant skills and use additional sections like certifications, awards, or personal projects.
- Write a compelling resume objective or summary, and always attach a tailored cover letter to enhance your application.
Do you have questions on how to write a great photography resume? Not sure how to describe your skills or achievements? Give us a shout in the comments! We’d be happy to reply.
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This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines. We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.
