Photographers and camera operators may work long hours in a cramped and smelly darkroom or stand and walk for long periods while carrying heavy equipment. Also, photographers often work under severe time restrictions to meet deadlines and satisfy customers. Employment Photographers and camera operators held about 118,000 jobs in 1992. About 4 out of 10 were self-employed, a much higher proportion than the average for all occupations. Some photographers contract with advertising agencies, magazines, or others to do individual projects, while others operate portrait studios or provide photographs to stock photo agencies.
Most salaried photographers work in portrait or commercial photography studios.
Others are with newspapers, magazines, advertising agencies, and government agencies. Most photographers and camera operators work in metropolitan areas. There is no one best way to enter the occupation. Determination often is as much the key to success as are creativity, skill, and formal preparation. Students should subscribe to photographic newsletters and magazines, join camera clubs, and find work in camera stores or photo studios.