Are you a freelance photographer looking to showcase your skills and land more clients? Your resume can be a powerful tool in achieving these goals. In this article, we will explore the best practices for creating a freelance photographer resume, provide helpful examples, and highlight why having a strong resume is crucial for success in this field.

As a freelance photographer, you know that your work speaks for itself, but a well-crafted resume allows potential clients and employers to understand your expertise and experience in more detail. A resume showcases your technical abilities, creative vision, and highlights your unique style as a photographer. It is the first impression a potential client or employer will have of you, and it can make all the difference in securing jobs and establishing your career.

With the rise of social media and online marketplaces for freelance photographers, having a professional resume is more important than ever. An impressive resume can set you apart from other photographers and demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to your craft.

In this article, we will guide you through the essential elements of a freelance photographer resume, such as choosing the right format, selecting the most relevant work experiences, and highlighting your strengths. We will also provide examples and tips on how to tailor your resume to different job opportunities, so you can stand out in a highly competitive industry.

The importance of a well-crafted freelancer photographer resume cannot be overstated. It is an essential piece of your marketing toolkit that can help you take your career to the next level. So, let’s dive in and explore the best practices for creating a winning freelance photographer resume.

Understanding the Role of a Freelance Photographer

As you embark on your journey as a freelance photographer, it is important to understand the role you will be taking on.

Definition of a Freelance Photographer

A freelance photographer is a professional photographer who works independently and is not employed by a particular company or organization. They produce high-quality photographs, either on assignment or as commissioned work, for a variety of clients, including magazines, newspapers, websites, advertising agencies, and businesses.

Scope of Work and Responsibilities

The scope of work for a freelance photographer varies greatly according to the photographer’s area of specialization, clients, and type of photography. However, some common responsibilities are:

Meeting clients to discuss their needs and expectations
Composing shoots and creating a shot list
Preparing and setting up lighting and equipment
Directing and photographing subjects
Editing and retouching images
Meeting project deadlines
Managing finances and paperwork

Common Types of Photography Freelance Work

Freelance photographers can specialize in various genres of photography. Below are some common types of photography freelance work:

Portrait Photography: This involves capturing images of individuals or groups of people, typically in a studio or on location.
Wedding Photography: Wedding photographers capture images of couples and their wedding day events, including ceremony and reception.
Commercial Photography: This type of photography is used by businesses to promote their products or services. It includes fashion, product, and advertising photography.
Photojournalism: Photojournalists capture images of current events or newsworthy stories for newspapers, magazines, or websites.
Event Photography: This involves capturing images of special events such as conferences, trade shows, and corporate events.

As a freelance photographer, it is essential to have a strong understanding of the different types of photography and the skills required for each. This knowledge will enable you to market your services effectively and attract the right clients.

Best Practices for Creating a Freelance Photographer Resume

As a freelance photographer, you understand the importance of showcasing your skills and experience to potential clients effectively. A well-crafted resume is an essential tool in helping you stand out from the competition. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when creating your freelance photographer resume:

Understanding the Types of Resumes and Which One Suits Your Needs

There are different types of resumes you can use for your job search, such as chronological, functional, or combination. The type of resume you choose depends on your experience and the job you’re applying for. For freelance photography, a combination resume that highlights both your relevant experience and skills may work best.

Choosing a Resume Template

Selecting a resume template that fits your personality and style is important, as it can help showcase your creativity and attention to detail. You can opt for a simple and clean template or something more visually appealing that reflects your photography style.

Choosing the Right Font, Color, and Layout

When it comes to fonts, it is best to stick to clean and legible options such as Arial or Times New Roman, as they are easy to read. Your choice of color and layout should reflect your personal brand and photography style. Keep in mind that your resume should look professional and be easy to read, so avoid using more than two colors and keep the layout neat and organized.

Writing a Compelling Resume Summary or Objective

Your resume summary or objective statement is your chance to make a great first impression. Use it to describe who you are as a photographer and highlight your achievements in the field. Make sure that it is concise, clear, and tailored to the position you are applying for.

Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience

Use your resume to showcase your photography skills, relevant experience, and achievements. Detail your experience working with different clients, types of photography, and the equipment and techniques you have used. Use bullet points to make it easy to read and highlight your best work through a portfolio link or attachment.

Creating a strong and compelling freelance photographer resume involves understanding the types of resumes, selecting a template that fits your style, choosing the right font and layout, writing a compelling summary or objective, and highlighting relevant skills and experience. Follow these best practices to create a resume that stands out and helps you land your dream freelance photography gig.

Tips for Making Your Freelance Photographer Resume Stand Out

When it comes to applying for freelance photography jobs, your resume needs to make a lasting impression. Here are some tips to help you stand out from the crowd:

Including Relevant Keywords and Phrases

Incorporating industry-specific keywords and phrases can boost your resume’s visibility and appeal to potential employers who use applicant tracking software (ATS) to identify qualified candidates. Research the job posting and company to identify relevant keywords and tailor your resume accordingly.

Prioritizing the Most Important Information

Your resume should provide a quick snapshot of your skills, experience, and qualifications. Highlight your most relevant experience and skills, and prioritize them based on the job requirements.

Showcasing Creativity and Skills Through Design and Layout

As a photographer, design and layout play a crucial role in showcasing your creativity and skills. Your resume should be visually appealing, easy to read, and organized. Use design elements and color schemes that align with your personal brand and style.

Including a Portfolio Link or Samples

Incorporating a link to your online portfolio or attaching samples of your work can demonstrate your skills and creativity in more detail. Be selective in choosing your best work and ensure your portfolio reflects your style and expertise.

By following these tips, you can make your freelance photographer resume stand out and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Example of Freelance Photographer Resume

As a freelance photographer, your resume is your calling card. It’s the first impression you make on potential clients, and it could be the deciding factor in whether or not you get a job. That’s why it’s important to get it right.

One of the best ways to see what works and what doesn’t is to look at examples of well-crafted resumes. By studying successful resumes, you can learn from professionals in the industry and see what hiring managers are really looking for.

Here is an example of a well-crafted freelance photographer resume:

Jenna Daniels
jennadanielsphotography.com
[email protected]
555-555-5555

Summary

Versatile and experienced photographer with a passion for capturing moments that tell a story. Skilled in portrait, event, and product photography, with a sharp eye for detail, composition, and lighting. Adept at working with clients to deliver high-quality images that meet their needs.

Experience

Freelance Photographer | Jenna Daniels Photography | 2015 – Present

Specialize in portrait, event, and product photography for a variety of clients, including families, small businesses, and local publications.
Collaborate with clients to plan, execute, and edit shoots, ensuring that their vision is realized.
Manage all aspects of photography project from start to finish, including setting up equipment, directing subjects, and post-production editing.
Promote business and services through social media platforms and website, resulting in a steady stream of clients.

Photography Intern | Local Magazine | Summer 2014

Assisted photographers with shoots for a variety of articles, including food, home, and lifestyle features.
Set up and broke down equipment for shoots, ensuring that everything was secure and in good working order.
Collaborated with editors to select and edit images for publication.

Education

B.A. Photography | University of California, Los Angeles | 2015

Studied techniques for digital and film photography, as well as the history and theory of art and photography.
Honed skills in composition, lighting, and editing.
Completed coursework in business practices for professional photographers.

Skills

Photography equipment operation and maintenance
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom)
Social media marketing and management
Business management and development
Customer service and communication

By following this example, you can see how to highlight your experience, education, and skills in a concise and eye-catching way. Use this as a guide to craft your own well-crafted freelance photographer resume that will help you stand out from the competition.

Essential Elements to Include in Your Freelance Photographer Resume

When applying for a freelance photography job, crafting an effective resume is key to making a positive first impression. Here are the essential elements to include:

Contact Information and Professional Summary

The first section of a freelance photographer resume should always include your name, email address, phone number, and website or social media links (if applicable). Make sure this information is easy to find and clearly presented.

In the professional summary, introduce yourself and describe your unique value proposition as a photographer. Highlight your strengths, such as proficiency in specific types of photography or knowledge of industry-specific software. Keep it brief, no more than two or three sentences.

Company Names and Dates of Employment

List the companies you have worked for, the dates you worked for them, and your position. If you have held several freelance photography jobs, organize them chronologically, starting with the most recent. When listing the companies, include a brief description of each, as well as any notable accomplishments or projects.

Relevant Skills and Experience

This is the section where you showcase your photography skills and experience, including both technical abilities and soft skills like communication and team collaboration. Be specific and use concrete examples to demonstrate your expertise. For example, instead of just saying “expertise in Adobe Photoshop,” list the different kinds of retouching techniques you are proficient in.

Education and Certifications

In this final section, list any formal education or professional certifications that relate to your photography skills. This could include a bachelor’s degree in photography, completion of a specific photography program, or a certificate in a specific photography niche.

When crafting your freelance photographer resume, make sure it is tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Use specific keywords that are used in the job posting to show your skills and experience match the needs of the position. With these essential elements in your resume, you are well on your way to showcasing yourself as the ideal freelance photographer candidate for any potential employer.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Freelance Photographer Resume

When it comes to creating a resume as a freelance photographer, choosing the right format can make all the difference in highlighting your skills and experience. Here are the three most common resume formats to consider:

1. Chronological Resume Format

The chronological resume format is the most commonly used format and is ideal if you have a consistent work history. This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job and working backwards. This format is great for highlighting your steady employment history and showing progression in your career.

As a freelance photographer, this format may not be as effective since you may have multiple clients and jobs that are not necessarily chronological. However, if you have held steady positions with certain clients over time, listing those in reverse chronological order can help to highlight your experience and reliability in those roles.

2. Functional Resume Format

The functional resume format focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work history, making it a great choice if you have limited work experience or are transitioning into a new field. This format highlights your skills and achievements, allowing you to showcase your photography skills in different contexts.

As a freelance photographer, this format can be highly beneficial since you can highlight your skills in areas such as lighting, composition, and post-production techniques. It is important to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for and to highlight the relevant skills that showcase your expertise as a photographer.

3. Combination Resume Format

The combination resume format combines elements of the chronological and functional formats, allowing you to highlight your skills and experience while also listing your work history in reverse chronological order. This format is a great choice for freelance photographers who have varied work experiences that may not necessarily be in chronological order.

As a freelance photographer, you may have a combination of short-term and long-term clients, and the combination format allows you to showcase those experiences while also highlighting your skills and achievements in a clear and concise manner.

The resume format you choose will depend on your specific experiences and goals. It is important to tailor your resume to the job you are applying for and to highlight the skills and experiences that show you as a strong candidate for the position.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Your Freelance Photographer Resume

When creating your freelance photographer resume, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:

Typos and grammatical errors can make you appear unprofessional and careless. Take the time to proofread your resume thoroughly, and consider having a friend or colleague review it as well.
Including irrelevant or non-essential information can clutter your resume and make it difficult for potential clients to discern your relevant skills and experience. Stick to highlighting your photography abilities, education, and relevant work experience.
Omitting important details, such as your contact information, can make it difficult for potential clients to get in touch with you. Make sure to include all pertinent details that may impact your ability to land freelance photography work.
Failing to customize your resume for each job opportunity can result in missed opportunities.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a professional and effective freelance photographer resume that will help you stand out in a competitive market.

As a freelance photographer, it’s essential to have a strong online presence that showcases your skills and experience. Social media is a valuable tool that can help you achieve this goal. In this section, we’ll discuss how you can incorporate social media into your resume to make it stand out.

Using LinkedIn to showcase skills and experience

LinkedIn is a powerful social media platform that is specifically designed for professionals. As a freelance photographer, you can use LinkedIn to showcase your skills and experience in a professional light. Make sure to include a well-written summary and highlight your top achievements. You can also publish articles and updates on your work, and connect with other professionals in your field to expand your network.

When applying for freelance photography gigs, it’s a good idea to include links to your relevant social media accounts on your resume. This can include your Instagram, Flickr, or other social media accounts where you showcase your photography work. Make sure that the links are clickable and that they lead to professional-looking profiles that showcase your work in the best possible light.

Building a strong online presence

Your online presence is a reflection of your personal brand as a freelance photographer. That’s why it’s crucial to build a strong online presence that showcases your skills, experience, and personality. You can achieve this by creating a website or blog that showcases your work, sharing your work on social media, and engaging with your audience. You can also use search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your online visibility and attract more potential clients.

Incorporating social media into your freelance photography resume is essential to stand out from the competition. Make sure to use LinkedIn to highlight your skills and experience, include clickable links to your relevant social media accounts, and build a strong online presence that reflects your personal brand. By following these best practices, you’ll increase your chances of landing your next freelance photography gig.

Tailoring Your Freelance Photographer Resume to Different Types of Clients

If you’re a freelance photographer looking to stand out from the competition, one effective strategy is to tailor your resume to different types of clients. Different clients have different needs and priorities, so highlighting relevant experience and skills can make a big difference in landing the job.

Adjusting your resume for different types of photography clients

When crafting your resume, it’s important to keep in mind the specific types of clients you’re targeting. For example, if you’re looking to work with corporate clients, your resume should highlight your experience with corporate events, headshots, and product photography. On the other hand, if you’re targeting individual clients such as families or couples, your resume should emphasize your experience with portrait and lifestyle photography.

Highlighting relevant experience and skills

In addition to tailoring your resume to different types of clients, it’s important to highlight relevant experience and skills that will set you apart from the competition. For example, if you have experience with photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, make sure to mention that in your resume. Other relevant skills might include proficiency in lighting and posing, knowledge of different types of photography equipment, or experience with event planning and coordination.

One effective way to showcase your experience and skills is to include a portfolio or link to your website in your resume. This allows potential clients to see examples of your work and get a sense of your style and capabilities.

Tailoring your freelance photographer resume to different types of clients and highlighting relevant experience and skills can help you stand out in a competitive industry. By taking the time to craft a customized resume that showcases your strengths and speaks to the specific needs of different clients, you can increase your chances of landing the right jobs for your skill set and interests.

Freelance Photographer Resume: Examples and Best Practices