Photography Internship

Photography internships can be a way to gain valuable experience in the industry. For photographers, a lot of the skills needed will be learned on the job, and if you can find apply for a photography internship it is a good way to learn from a pro.

What Will I Learn on a Photography Internship?

You will learn the day-to-day life of a photographer either working on location or in a studio. A lot of this means real work experience with clients, something you won’t learn from taking pictures of your friends.

You may learn about the business. This includes learning how to market yourself, and how to conduct yourself on photo shoots, as well as understanding the different aspects of the photography industry.

You’ll also learn about photo editing software and post-processing techniques. Storage and security, and specific styles of photography.

Of course, there are different types of photography businesses and you’ll learn based on the niche and expertise of the photographer, whether they are a product photographer or a wedding photographer.

Do Interns Get Paid?

Generally, no. Photography internships are usually unpaid positions and the photographer is just helping out someone who wants to gain experience in the field. However, you might get some free images or prints in exchange for your work and the opportunity to build your portfolio.

If photography interns are asked to travel, some companies will reimburse the travel costs.

How Long Do Internships Last?

It varies, but typically an internship lasts for a couple of months. It’s best to ask the photographer beforehand what you can expect in terms of hours and duration. You may be working for longer in a part-time position, or working full time in the summer while studying at university.

Making Your Application Stand Out

Photography is a competitive industry, like many careers in the media industry. There are a few things you can do to make sure your internship application stands out from the rest.

Make sure you have a good quality portfolio of your work and make it easy to access online.

If you don’t have any professional experience, highlight any relevant volunteer work or extracurricular activities. And finally, write a great cover letter explaining why you would be a good fit for the business and what you can offer if the photography business should choose you.

Where to Find Photography Internships?

Developing a Student has a specialist graduate and internship jobs board with regular positions for those who want to break into creative industries including photography. Check regularly to see if there is a suitable internship for you.

If you have an idea of a photography company where you may be able to volunteer or intern, you may approach them directly and send them a CV.