PHOTOGRAPHER

〉〉 MAIN DUTIES Capture images or videos for clients in a studio, on location or at an event. You prepare for the photoshoot by setting up lights and props, and typically edit the photos afterwards.

〉〉 BEST SUITED TO creative people with an eye for detail. Patience, tact and good communication skills also help you to relate with clients and/or subjects.

〉〉 WHAT TO STUDY There are a variety of qualifications on offer. Courses vary between seven weeks and three months. Some involve completing an internship while studying theory. For more info, contact the Photographic Society of SA at pssa.co.za or the Southern African Freelancers’ Association at safrea.co.za. But having formal training isn’t essential. You could gain experience by assisting a professional photographer.

〉〉 EARNING POTENTIAL Entry-level photographers who are self-employed make about R8 000 month. For those employed full time, with one to four years’ experience, salaries range from R13 000 to R19 000 a month. With five to 10 years’ experience you can make up to R38 000 a month. Photographer salaries vary a lot based on education, experience, skills and location.

PROS You have freedom and flexibility if you choose to freelance instead of working for a company.

CONS Good cameras and gear don’t come cheap and, as with any freelance career, photography doesn’t guarantee a steady income.