CAREER RESEARCH

Wild life photography/videography

Overview

Wildlife photography offers opportunities for creativity and working outdoors, but it is also a highly competitive career and difficult to break into. Wildlife photographers must be prepared to work in all types of weather conditions and at unusual times of day to capture wildlife in natural surroundings. While many work independently, or as freelance photographers, magazine publishers and production studios, government agencies and wildlife organizations employ staff photographers.

Daily tasks

While it is possible to capture wildlife in your own backyard, wildlife photographers travel to locations where the wildlife is. They frequently have to hike, canoe or kayak to remote locations, hauling equipment with them. Wildlife photographers often find themselves in harsh environments away from populated areas of the world. A single perfect shot can take weeks to capture; photo shoots can last for months, rather than be a weekend get-away. Because they work outside, wildlife photographers are at the mercy of the weather, often working in uncomfortable conditions

Salary

median annual salary of $34,070 in 2016

Education

Independent wildlife photographers are not required to have a college degree; however, many do have degrees in fine arts and photography from art institutes or colleges. Agencies who hire staff photographers, such as the federal government, often require an additional degree in biology and zoology, along with training in photography. They must also have technical skills with cameras and the ability to work with images and photographic software to enhance photos

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