What are the pros and cons of being a photographer?

Pros:

• Education requirements

  You do not have to get a photography degree to become a photographer. You can start by learning how to use various types of cameras or becoming a master of one. You can also familiarize yourself with different types of photographic equipment, such as lenses, lights, and photography software like Photoshop, to get started in the field.

• Creativity

  One of the best aspects of being a photographer is the ability to be creative. Many photographers get paid to do what they love, and there isn't a better arrangement than this when it comes to working. Photographers also can work on different projects and use their creativity in different ways.

• Flexibility

  The majority of photographers are freelance photographers. This means they can create their own schedules to a degree. It also means that, if they build up a good reputation, they can be selective in the projects they choose to work on. Most photographers don't work on a traditional 9 to 5 schedule and can take days off during the week if they choose.

• Variety

  There are so many different types of photography, including wildlife photography, fashion photography, fine art photography, and sports photography, just to name a few. Photographers not only get to do what they love by taking pictures for a living, but they also can choose a field of photography that they find exciting.

Cons:

• Breaking into photography as a job is tough

  It is very hard to become a professional photographer that makes a consistently good living. Many photographers have to have second jobs to keep up with living expenses. This is because it is a saturated and competitive industry. This also depends on the specific type of photography you want to get involved with, but the gigs that pay well have fierce competition.

• Earning potential

  Full-time working photographers earn annual salaries that range between $30,000 to $70,000 per year. Being a creative profession, full-time positions as a photographer are hard to obtain, because you are normally in competition with many talented photographers. The average photographer makes a wage of $20.84 per hour.

  Their earnings can be decent, except that you need to keep up with the tech trends of the industry. This includes purchasing cameras, lenses, lights, software, and a whole host of other gear needed to perform most photography.

• Freelancing involves a lot of work

  While freelancing photographers experience a lot of benefits, they also have to do a lot of work. Remember, as a photographer you don't just take pictures, you also have to cycle through your photoshoots, select images, edit images, and perform other technical work, like color correction. You also have to promote yourself constantly and operate your business.