Photographer Resume examples & templates

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Copyable resume examples

Copyable Photographer Resume examples

Ever wonder why the perfect photo can tell a story that words sometimes can't? Photography has evolved from a purely artistic pursuit into a dynamic career field where technical skill meets creative vision. Today's photographers don't just capture moments—they shape narratives, build brands, and sometimes even influence social movements through their lens. With the rise of digital media, the demand for visual content has exploded, creating new opportunities beyond traditional studio work. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that self-employed photographers now make up nearly 64% of the industry, reflecting a shift toward freelance and entrepreneurial paths.

The digital revolution has transformed how photographers work, too. Gone are the darkroom days (though some still embrace film for its distinctive quality). Now, post-processing skills and social media savvy are just as crucial as understanding aperture and shutter speed. Platforms like Instagram have become portfolios, and drones have literally elevated what's possible in landscape and architectural photography. As we look ahead, photographers who blend technical expertise with business acumen and adaptability will find themselves not just surviving but thriving in this visual-first world.

Junior Photographer Resume Example

Mia Ramirez

Boston, MA • (617) 555-8421 • mia.ramirez.photo@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/miaramirezphoto • www.miaramirezportfolio.com

Creative photographer with 1+ year of professional experience specializing in portrait and event photography. Equipped with a strong foundation in digital photography techniques, lighting setups, and post-production workflows. Quick learner who thrives in fast-paced environments and can adapt shooting style to match client vision. Recently expanded skills to include commercial product photography.

EXPERIENCE

Junior Photographer – BrightLens Studios, Boston, MA
March 2023 – Present

  • Support lead photographers during 15-20 client sessions monthly, managing equipment setup, lighting arrangements, and subject positioning
  • Edit 75+ photos weekly using Lightroom and Photoshop, applying consistent style guides while maintaining natural skin tones and proper exposure
  • Shoot and deliver complete packages for 3-4 smaller client projects monthly, including engagement sessions and corporate headshots
  • Created and implemented a file naming and organization system that reduced image retrieval time by 37%

Photography Assistant (Part-time) – James Wilson Photography, Cambridge, MA
September 2022 – February 2023

  • Assisted primary photographer at 25+ weddings and events, managing secondary shooting angles and candid moments
  • Maintained and transported equipment including cameras, lenses, lighting, and backdrops to various shooting locations
  • Culled and organized raw images, flagging top selections for lead photographer review

Photography Intern – Boston Magazine, Boston, MA
May 2022 – August 2022

  • Shadowed staff photographers during editorial shoots for print and digital content
  • Photographed 6 local restaurants for the summer food guide, 2 of which were selected as feature images
  • Assisted with studio product photography for the magazine’s online shopping guides

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Boston, MA
Graduated: May 2022

Relevant Coursework: Digital Photography, Studio Lighting, Portrait Photography, Commercial Photography, Photo Editing & Retouching, Visual Storytelling

CERTIFICATIONS

Adobe Certified Professional: Photoshop (2022)
Basic Studio Lighting – MassArt Continuing Education (2021)

SKILLS

  • Portrait, Event & Product Photography
  • Studio & Natural Lighting Setups
  • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Bridge)
  • Capture One Pro
  • DSLR & Mirrorless Camera Systems (Canon, Sony)
  • Tethered Shooting
  • Photo Retouching & Color Correction
  • Client Communication
  • Basic Video Production
  • Digital Asset Management

EQUIPMENT

Canon EOS R6, Canon 5D Mark IV, 24-70mm f/2.8, 70-200mm f/2.8, 85mm f/1.4, 35mm f/1.8, Profoto B10 lighting kit, portable backdrop system

Mid-level Photographer Resume Example

MICHAEL JENSEN

Chicago, IL • (312) 555-9027 • m.jensen.photo@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/mjensenphotography • www.michaeljensenphotography.com

Versatile photographer with 5+ years capturing compelling visual narratives across portrait, commercial, and editorial photography. Known for blending technical expertise with creative vision to deliver authentic imagery that exceeds client expectations. Experienced in both studio and location shoots with a knack for making subjects comfortable in front of the camera.

EXPERIENCE

Lead Photographer – Prism Studios, Chicago, IL
March 2021 – Present

  • Manage and execute 12-15 commercial photography projects monthly for clients including Northwestern Medicine, Travelodge Hotels, and 3 local restaurants
  • Direct a team of 2 junior photographers and 1 assistant, providing mentorship while maintaining quality standards across all deliverables
  • Increased client retention by 28% through implementation of detailed pre-shoot consultations and mood board development
  • Expanded studio’s service offerings to include product photography, resulting in $37,500 additional revenue in 2022
  • Collaborate with creative directors and marketing teams to translate brand identities into cohesive visual storytelling

Photographer – Freelance, Chicago, IL
June 2019 – Present

  • Maintain a diverse portfolio of clients including 4 local businesses, 2 wedding venues, and Chicago Style Magazine
  • Photographed 27 weddings and events, consistently delivering 300+ edited images per event within agreed timeframes
  • Built a personal brand that generated 73% of new business through referrals and social media presence (8,700+ Instagram followers)
  • Developed and launched 2 photography workshops teaching portrait lighting techniques, generating supplemental income and industry connections

Associate Photographer – Thompson Creative, Chicago, IL
January 2019 – February 2021

  • Assisted with lighting setup, equipment maintenance, and post-production for 6-8 commercial photo shoots weekly
  • Managed digital asset organization and backup procedures for studio’s image library of 50,000+ photos
  • Independently shot 14 smaller client projects, including headshot sessions and product photography
  • Contributed to studio’s transition from Canon to Sony equipment, researching options and testing workflows

Photography Intern – Chicago Tribune, Chicago, IL
September 2018 – December 2018

  • Supported staff photographers during various assignments including local events, sports games, and breaking news
  • Published 11 original photographs in print and digital editions during 3-month internship
  • Learned fast-paced editorial workflow and AP style photo submission requirements

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Photography
Columbia College Chicago – 2018
Minor: Digital Marketing

Certifications & Professional Development

  • Adobe Certified Professional: Photoshop (2020)
  • Phase One Certified Professional (2022)
  • Advanced Studio Lighting Workshop – Peter Hurley (2019)

TECHNICAL SKILLS

  • Equipment: Sony Alpha series, Canon EOS, Phase One, Profoto lighting systems, DJI drones
  • Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Bridge), Capture One, Final Cut Pro X
  • Specialties: Commercial, portrait, product, editorial, event photography
  • Techniques: Studio lighting, natural light, long exposure, aerial photography, tethered shooting
  • Post-production: Color correction, retouching, compositing, batch processing
  • Business: Client management, project estimation, licensing agreements, model releases

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Equipment insurance and liability coverage through PPA ($2M coverage)
  • FAA Part 107 certified commercial drone pilot
  • Fluent in English and conversational Spanish
  • Photography published in: Chicago Style Magazine, Modern Luxury, TimeOut Chicago

Senior / Experienced Photographer Resume Example

VANESSA MORRISON

Portland, OR • (503) 555-9187 • vmorrison@gmail.com • linkedin.com/in/vanessamorrison
www.vanessaportfolio.com

Versatile photographer with 9+ years capturing compelling visual narratives across fashion, commercial, and editorial spaces. Known for a distinct aesthetic that blends technical precision with creative vision. My work has appeared in Portland Monthly, Willamette Week, and various national campaigns. Skilled in directing diverse subjects while maintaining a relaxed shooting environment.

EXPERIENCE

Freelance Photographer | Self-employed | Portland, OR | Jan 2019 – Present

  • Manage all aspects of client photography projects from initial consultation through final delivery, maintaining a 97% client satisfaction rate and 74% referral-based business
  • Shot 42 commercial campaigns for regional and national brands, including Pendleton, Stumptown Coffee, and Smith Teamaker
  • Created distinctive visual identities for 17 Portland-area restaurants, wineries, and retailers that increased social media engagement by an average of 31%
  • Built and maintained a network of 40+ industry professionals including stylists, art directors, and photo assistants
  • Launched photography workshop series teaching lighting techniques to emerging photographers (sold out 6 consecutive sessions)

Senior Staff Photographer | Northwest Media Group | Portland, OR | Mar 2016 – Jan 2019

  • Led visual storytelling for 5 print/digital publications with combined monthly readership of 1.2M
  • Coordinated and executed 12-18 photoshoots weekly, including editorial features, food photography, and environmental portraits
  • Mentored 4 junior photographers, developing training materials that became company standard
  • Collaborated with writers and editors to conceptualize visual components that elevated written content
  • Implemented new digital asset management system that reduced image retrieval time by 63%

Associate Photographer | Studio Collective | Seattle, WA | Aug 2014 – Feb 2016

  • Assisted lead photographers on high-profile commercial shoots for clients including REI, Nordstrom and Alaska Airlines
  • Managed studio equipment inventory and maintenance, reducing equipment rental costs by 22%
  • Developed lighting setups and shot secondary content for major campaign shoots
  • Edited and retouched images for 60+ client projects using Capture One and Adobe suite

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Photography | Rhode Island School of Design | Providence, RI | 2014

Advanced Studio Lighting Workshop | Santa Fe Photographic Workshops | 2017

Commercial Photography Intensive | CreativeLive | 2015

SKILLS

  • Studio & Location Lighting
  • Canon & Sony Camera Systems
  • Tethered Shooting (Capture One)
  • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, InDesign)
  • Commercial & Editorial Photography
  • Art Direction
  • Product Photography
  • Portrait & Fashion Photography
  • Client Relations & Project Management
  • Photo Retouching & Color Correction

SELECTED CLIENTS & PUBLICATIONS

Portland Monthly, Travel Oregon, Willamette Week, Pendleton Woolen Mills, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Schoolhouse Electric, Umpqua Bank, Danner Boots, Powell’s Books, New Seasons Market

How to Write a Photographer Resume

Introduction

Landing your dream photography job starts with a resume that captures your visual storytelling abilities—on paper. Whether you're a wedding photographer with 200+ ceremonies under your belt or a recent graduate with a stunning portfolio but limited professional experience, your resume needs to showcase your unique eye and technical expertise. I've helped photographers at all career stages land jobs at magazines, studios and creative agencies and I'm sharing the exact formula that works.

Resume Structure and Format

Photographers walk a fine line—you need a resume that's

creative enough to reflect your artistic sensibilities, but professional enough to be taken seriously. Here's what works:

  • Length: Stick to one page unless you have 7+ years of diverse experience
  • Format: Clean, minimal design with thoughtful use of white space (this isn't the place for your most experimental typography)
  • File type: PDF only—it preserves your formatting across all devices
  • Sections: Contact info, summary, experience, skills, education, optional portfolio link

Keep your contact info professional—that quirky email from college (darkroomwizard@email.com) isn't doing you any favors. And yes, include your Instagram or website link if your work there is consistently professional.

Remember: Your resume complements your portfolio, it doesn't replace it. The resume gets you the interview; the portfolio gets you the job.

Profile/Summary Section

Your summary should be 2-4 sentences that pack a punch. Think of it as the verbal equivalent of your best shot—it needs to instantly communicate who you are as a photographer.

  • Mention your specialty (portrait, commercial, fashion, etc.)
  • Note your years of experience (if more than 2)
  • Include 1-2 standout achievements or notable clients
  • Reference your technical strengths that set you apart

For example: "Fashion photographer with 5 years of experience creating editorial content for brands like Madewell and local boutiques. Known for dramatic lighting techniques and quick turnaround on tight deadlines."

Professional Experience

This section trips up many photographers, especially freelancers. Here's how to structure it effectively:

  • List positions in reverse chronological order
  • For freelance work, create job titles like "Freelance Photographer" with date ranges
  • Group similar freelance projects under one entry if you're short on space
  • Focus on results, not just responsibilities (increased web traffic by 34% with new product photography)
  • Quantify whenever possible (managed 17 concurrent clients, delivered 75+ edited images weekly)

Avoid vague statements like "took pictures at events." Instead, write "Captured 12 corporate events annually, delivering 200+ edited images per event with 24-hour turnaround."

Education and Certifications

For photographers, formal education matters less than skill, but you should still include:

  • Degree (if relevant to photography or visual arts)
  • Specialized workshops or masterclasses you've completed
  • Technical certifications (Adobe certified, lighting techniques, etc.)
  • Mentorships with established photographers (if notable)

Keywords and ATS Tips

Many photography jobs now use Applicant Tracking Systems before a human ever sees your resume. To get past these digital gatekeepers:

  • Include technical skills explicitly (Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, tethered shooting)
  • Mention specific equipment you're proficient with (Canon EOS systems, Profoto lighting)
  • Mirror language from the job posting (if they want "product photography experience," use those exact words)
  • Avoid saving your resume as an image file—text-based PDFs work best for ATS

Industry-specific Terms

Sprinkle these throughout your resume to signal you speak the language:

  • Technical: RAW processing, color correction, retouching, lighting setups
  • Business: client management, licensing, usage rights, shot lists
  • Equipment: specific camera systems, lighting brands, modifiers you're familiar with
  • Style: documentary approach, studio portraiture, editorial style

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing too much on artistic vision and not enough on practical skills
  • Including photos directly on your resume (that's what your portfolio is for)
  • Being vague about freelance experience (treat it as seriously as staff positions)
  • Forgetting to mention soft skills like client communication and project management
  • Using artsy fonts that make your resume hard to read

Before/After Example

Before: "Took photos for weddings and made clients happy."

After: "Photographed 28 weddings in 2022, delivering 600+ edited images per event with 100% client satisfaction. Developed streamlined workflow that reduced delivery time from 6 weeks to 3 weeks while maintaining quality."

Now go update that resume—and don't forget to have someone else look it over before you send it out. Even the best photographers need a second pair of eyes!

Soft skills for your Photographer resume

  • Client relationship management – putting subjects at ease while maintaining professional boundaries during shoots
  • Visual storytelling and creative direction – translating client vision into compelling images
  • Adaptability to changing conditions (lighting, weather, mood) during time-sensitive shoots
  • Active listening to understand unspoken client needs and expectations
  • Team coordination with stylists, assistants, and art directors on complex projects
  • Time management while balancing multiple deadlines and post-production workflows

Hard skills for your Photographer resume

  • Adobe Photoshop CC & Lightroom (advanced photo manipulation, color grading)
  • Studio lighting setup and modification (strobe, continuous, natural light management)
  • Proficient with Canon EOS R5, Sony α7R IV and Nikon Z7 camera systems
  • Tethered shooting with Capture One Pro 23
  • Photo retouching (frequency separation, dodge & burn techniques)
  • Digital asset management and archiving (Photo Mechanic, Dropbox)
  • Commercial drone photography (FAA Part 107 certified)
  • HTML/CSS for portfolio website maintenance
  • Raw file processing and batch editing workflows