Photography: Hobby to Career

Photography is one of those arts that you can enjoy as a hobby and then decide to take it to the next level as a part time photographer for hire. Make your initial investment in your camera equipment and a quality camera bag, carefully. You'll want them to last, the case is most important, it needs to protect that very valuable camera. You may decide this is really for you and take the plunge to full time, for what can be a very rewarding career.

Let's begin with the wedding photographer. Obviously, this would fall in the part time category. One that would allow you to keep your primary employment and enjoy your passion. You could build your portfolio by photographing a friends wedding. Pack your camera cases, arrive early to set up, relax and take your best shots.

Next there's Art Photography, which are those beautiful photographs you see at times in galleries and sometimes museum. This, too, is something you could do part time. We've all seen some incredible images displayed in a local restaurant or at the fair or craft show. This is another way to get your work out there and still keep your "day job".

If you enjoy people, consider Portrait Photography, another field you could pursue on a part time basis. Start with family and friends to build your portfolio. If you have formal photography education, try approaching a studio. They may be interested in hiring a weekend or evening photographer.

Next on our list is the Nature Photographer. This field has a wide spectrum. Throw your camera bag over your shoulder and head out to that canyon where you will take some phenomenal shots of that herd of wild horses. The highly experienced wildlife photographer is the one who takes those incredible pictures you see in magazines like National Geographic.

Fashion Photography requires the ability to work with people, a professional portfolio and dedication. These photographers can work in catalogs, fashion magazines to snapping pictures of celebrities.

You could delve into Commercial and Industrial Photography which would put you in the catalog or, possibly, the greeting card business. The medical field would include documentation for textbooks and journals that are used for hospitals, labs and schools.

Photojournalists are considered to work in one of the most exciting fields of photography. They photograph the news. People, places and events for newspapers, journals and magazines.

Whatever your passion, photography has something for everyone. No formal education or license is required to be a photographer. What you need is a good camera with accessories suitable to your photography of choice and a quality camera bag. One that's durable with good padding to protect your investment and padded straps for comfortable carrying,space for all your equipment and water resistance.

Hopefully, this has sparked your interest and you'll pursue the endless photographic opportunities that are out there.

About the Author

Suzanne VanDeGrift of Web Submission Services, Inc, has developed this article for M-ROCK.com, manufacturer of exceptional quality camera bags that are functional and ideal for all levels of photographers.