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Sports Photographer

A Sports Photographer captures images at sporting events for media or clubs, specialising in action shots and working flexible hours.

How do I become a sports photographer

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

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Sports Photographer.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Sports Photographer generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 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 photographic industry has enjoyed strong job growth over the last five years. There are currently 17,100 professional photographers in Australia and many of them specialise as Sports Photographers. Sports Photographers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

If a career as a Sports Photographer interests you, 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. If you decide to further your study, you could enrol in 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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Sports Photographer careers

A Sports Photographer takes photos at sporting events for use by the media or by sporting clubs. You might specialise in one particular sport or you might cover a range of fixtures. Sports Photographers may be employed by a news organisation, a sporting club or they may have their own photography business. You might capture action photos, team shots or individual performance photos.

Sports Photographers need to be able to capture action images quickly. You’ll need to be available to work irregular hours including weekends and you’ll have to travel to a range of locations. Sports Photographers need to be skilled at different photographic techniques and should be able to use photographic software to edit their images.