Becoming a freelance photographer has a lot of benefits, not only as a photographer starting out, but as a lucrative side hustle for many. Some photographers also enjoy the freedom of freelance without being tied to a particular employer or company. The Photography Academy of Ireland provides numerous accredited photography courses available both online and in the classroom. Perhaps you want to start a photography course and get your business underway. If so, we've got some tips to help you get started on your journey. Read on to learn more.
Photography Tips for Freelancers
Working as a freelancer is quite different to being employed by a company? It comes with more freedom, flexibility, and autonomy.
The Process of Becoming a Freelance Photographer
To be a successful photographer in the professional sphere, it is not enough to simply have the skills to take great photographs, you need to put yourself out there and let the world know you exist. The first step in the business of freelance is to have a great website.
On your website, you can showcase your work and share it with the world. If you have a particular area of photography that you want to specialize in, take a course, get your credentials, and start practicing. Many photographers starting out don’t have a specific genre but they find that in their studies, they are led in a new direction that interests them.
These may include:
- Portrait photography
- Fashion photography
- Landscape photography
Another important aspect of a successful freelance career is communication. It is important to maintain a good relationship with your clients as it can help improve customer retention and can generate positive word-of-mouth business.
Don't be too hard on yourself if it's a slow process to get started. It's that way for many new freelancers. So, bide your time and build your brand.
Freelance Photography Courses Available
At the Photography Academy of Ireland, we have various courses including online photography courses as well as at-home and classroom-based courses for you to choose from. The credentials you can receive include:
- Certificate
- Diploma
- Postgraduate diploma
- BTEC Higher National Certificate & Diploma.
Certificate
With the certificate, you can gain a foundation in photography and the ability to take fantastic photos.
The home study option is 3 months long with tutor support and course materials available.
Diplomas
The diploma allows you to gain a higher-level skill set than the certificate. The ability you'll gain will help you move to a professional photographer.
Home study and classroom studies run from 6 to 12 months with the possibility of allowing up to 3 years to complete.
Postgraduate Diplomas and Higher National Courses
Our postgraduate home study courses run from 9 to 18 months, as do our classroom diplomas. They provide a deeper insight into professional photography, helping build additional skills that you'll take with you when starting your business.
Our BTEC Higher National Diploma is a pathway to a University degree.
All of these options can help pave the way to your career as a freelance photographer.
Start One of Our Photography Courses Here
Becoming a freelance photographer includes learning amazing photography skills through completing photography courses. Then, you can start building your career.
Become one of our new students and enjoy learning about how to become a photographer.
Contact us right away! We provide the courses that'll help you get started with your freelancing business.