What’s my Degree got to do With it?
I have a BA in English / Journalism from the University of New Hampshire. Though I’m not out in the field shooting for the New York Times, the work I do in the commercial photography space greatly benefits from my formal education in this arena. Here’s how:
1. Storytelling Ability
Journalism hones your skills in storytelling, allowing you to craft compelling narratives through your photographs. This ability is invaluable in commercial photography, where images often need to convey a brand's story or message effectively.
2. Attention to Detail
Journalists are trained to observe and capture intricate details, which enhances your capability to notice and highlight subtle elements in commercial photography. This attention to detail can distinguish your work, making it more engaging and precise.
3. Context and Perspective
Journalistic training provides a strong sense of context and perspective. This skill helps you to frame subjects in a way that adds depth and meaning to commercial photographs, making them more impactful and resonant with the audience.
4. Research Skills
Journalism emphasizes thorough research, which can be applied to understanding a client’s brand, target audience, and market trends. This knowledge enables you to create images that are not only visually appealing but also strategically aligned with the brand's objectives.
5. Adaptability
Journalists often work in varied and unpredictable environments, which cultivates adaptability. As a commercial photographer, this skill helps you to handle diverse shooting conditions and client needs with ease and professionalism.
6. Ethical Storytelling
A journalistic background instills a strong sense of ethics, guiding you to create authentic and honest representations in your commercial work. This integrity builds trust with clients and audiences, enhancing your reputation as a reliable photographer.
7. Communication Skills
Journalists are adept communicators, which aids in effectively collaborating with clients, models, and creative teams. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, leading to smoother shoots and better results.
8. Editing Proficiency
Experience in journalism involves strong editing skills, enabling you to select and refine images to best tell the intended story. This proficiency is crucial in delivering high-quality commercial photographs that meet client expectations.
9. Time Management
Journalists often work under tight deadlines, teaching you efficient time management. This skill ensures that you can deliver high-quality work promptly, a crucial aspect in the fast-paced world of commercial photography.
10. Versatility
Journalistic assignments can be diverse, from breaking news to feature stories. This versatility translates into a broader skill set in commercial photography, allowing you to handle various types of projects with confidence and creativity.
By integrating these journalistic skills and perspectives, you can create commercial photographs that are not only visually striking but also rich in narrative and meaning, setting your work apart in the competitive field of commercial photography.
