A freelancer photographer has the freedom to pick and choose their assignments, how they carry out their work, as well as when and where they work. The downside to all this freedom is that any photographer who specializes in freelance work has to be able to find work for themselves. But the greatest attraction of being a Magazine Photographer is that you will get to take pictures of a variety of subjects.

How to break into Freelance Magazine Photography

To get started as a freelance magazine photographer, try looking through the magazine racks at your local bookstore. When you page through the various magazines, consider what it is about every photograph that makes is appropriate for that magazine article. Think like a magazine editor and determine what photo you would place on the pages to illustrate this article. If you accomplish this then you will know what to go out and shoot. Take stacks of photos and send off the cream of them to magazines and hopefully they will publish them and pay you. You should look for the page that lists the publishers and editors of the magazine. This usually on the first couple of pages in a magazine. Then you can post or email your work to the editor, with a covering letter and hope that your photos catch their eye.

Who hires Freelance Magazine Photographers?

Many of the large newspapers and magazines will hire Freelance Photographers or purchase individuals photos from them.

What to Charge

What you can charge depends on many factors. Many freelancers are looking for around $75 an hour for projects but you will need to charge less to start with as an inexperienced photographer.

However most magazines will be looking to buy photos based on an individual piece rate and this is dependent on the market and the quality of the shot.

Tasks Expected of a Freelance Magazine Photographer

Research is paramount for a freelance magazine photographer. What pictures are selling at the moment? They must keep abreast of the latest stories by reading up on the latest news. They should also subscribe to photography journals to keep up to date with the newest equipment and latest techniques.

Skills of a Freelance Magazine Photographer

Apart from the obvious technical skills, freelance magazine photographers should get on well with people, be smart approachable and above all professional. You also will need to network effectively and obtain plenty of contacts in the business so that you know who, what and where is looking to buy photographs on per piece basis.

Equipment used by a Freelance Magazine Photographer

The best route at first is to buy the best camera you can afford. A decent specification PC is also very valuable so that you can manipulate photos via software programs such as Paint and Photoshop.
Where to look and apply for jobs

A photographer who specializes in freelance work has to be able to find work for themselves.
You would be advised to research which types of photos are the most desired and target these. Many people will choose a photographer based on their reputation in the industry plus examples of the photographer's previous work; so a decent portfolio is very valuable.

Another idea would be to contact any locally based magazines or your local newspapers and ask the editor if they have a need for a freelance photographer.

Additionally you will be able to make money by holding a stock of photos and selling these when one of your contacts has relevant requirements.

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