Photojournalism careers offer an incomparable combination of objective news reporting and creative photography. And you'll love the rush of getting paid well to do something that you love. You can position yourself for intriguing, on-location projects by completing the following professional requirements.
Basic Training in Photography
Whether you're holding the mic or working the camera, photojournalism career requirements begin with formal training in techniques and equipment. Photography courses are offered at major universities, community colleges, and vocational and technical schools. These courses last from a few months to several years, depending upon the level of expertise you desire. The training includes a rich technology component that immerses you in software programs for editing photos and digital sequences. Of course, developing a "good eye" for the shot takes time and practice, but having formal coursework in photography will greatly improve your chances of finding that dream job.
Getting that News Analyst Mentality
Another critical aspect of any successful photojournalism career is learning to become news-minded. Many working photojournalist began as actually journalists--writing feature articles, conducting interviews and reporting on events. Because photojournalism involves telling a story with pictures, the ability to communicate effectively is paramount. Should you choose to go this route, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are more than 1,500 institutions offer programs in communications and journalism. The curriculum features training in basic reporting, copy editing, and mass media. Degrees range from four-year bachelor's to doctoral programs in research and theory. Desktop publishing is especially helpful for aspiring photojournalists as this is the trend of the future.
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