Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Photographer
What photographers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a photographer?
Review the shot list for a product shoot. From there, the day usually includes plan shoots with clients, set up lighting and equipment, and direct subjects and compose shots. Hours vary widely; weddings and events mean weekends and evenings.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a photographer working full time.
- Review the shot list for a product shoot.
- Set up lights and shoot products in the studio.
- Edit and retouch the product images.
- Meet a couple to plan their wedding photos.
- Shoot family portraits at a park during golden hour.
- Back up files to two drives.
- Post to social media and answer inquiries.
Where photographers work
Photographers work in studios, on location, at events and at home editing. Some travel widely.
Hours and schedule
Hours vary widely; weddings and events mean weekends and evenings.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Plan shoots with clients
- Set up lighting and equipment
- Direct subjects and compose shots
- Capture images
- Edit and retouch photos
- Deliver images and products
- Market and run a photography business
Tools you’ll use every day
- DSLR and mirrorless cameras
- Lenses
- Studio and flash lighting
- Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop
- Tripods and reflectors
- Drones for aerial work
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Creative and varied work
- Run your own business
- Flexible schedules
- Capture meaningful moments
What’s hard
- Irregular income
- Weekend work
- Expensive equipment
- Competitive market
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love capturing images
- I have an eye for composition
- I enjoy working with people
- I want my own business
- I don’t mind weekend work
- I’m patient with editing
Not sure? Take the free Photographer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Protect equipment and yourself on location
- Follow drone rules
- Get model releases
- Lift equipment safely