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Photographer

ANZSCO 211311

Photographers capture images for events or clients, specialising in various styles while using creative techniques and equipment to meet briefs.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a photographer

Get qualified to work as a photographer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Photographer generally earns $1,313 per week ($68,276 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

The number of people working in this industry has grown strongly in recent years. There are currently 17,100 professional Photographers in Australia compared to 12,000 five years ago. Photographers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

To become a professional Photographer, consider the Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging. You’ll develop the skills you need to take professional photos with topics including working to a brief, lighting techniques and enhancing and manipulating images. You might decide to further your study with a Diploma of Photography and Photo Imaging or an Advanced Diploma of Photography.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

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Photographer careers

A Photographer takes photos to record important events or for clients to purchase. You might specialise in a particular type of photography such as news, fashion or weddings or even take artistic shots such as landscapes or urban scenes. Photographers liaise with clients to determine what type of photos they want and use cameras and lighting equipment to capture the required images. You’ll adjust images and may use creative techniques before printing images as required.

Photographers need to be creative and be skilled in taking, manipulating and printing images. You’ll need to communicate with clients and be able to work to a photographic brief. Depending on your role, you may have to work irregular hours or on weekends. Photographers need to able to capture images quickly and use a range of photographic techniques to produce a quality shot.