Photographer Although I Also Do Some Design And Graphic Design 

How did you get your current job?
I met someone working at the business itself at an art show and they suggested that I come in and talk to a co-owner who was looking to fill a photographer job.

What was the application process?
I brought in a photography portfolio and resume. I also filled out a paper application.

Did you have to interview for your current job? If yes, what did the interview process entail?
I did have a short interview but it was basically decided beforehand that I would get the job as the person I met was a co-owner of the business and she said that she would be willing to hire me but at least needed to formally introduce me to the other co-owner.

If you can remember, what questions were you asked during the interview?
I was asked questions about what companies I worked for/or with. I was asked what type of photography I had experience with. I was asked what kind of projects I have done. I was asked what type of clients I had worked with.

Do you feel your employer properly prepared you for your job? Explain.
My employer did properly prepare me as they allowed me to follow another photographer to see how they did their job. This allowed me to organize myself and learn what was required of me when I contacted businesses etc…

Was there training for your current position? If yes, what did it entail?
There was no formal training for my job per se but my employer new that I was well versed in photoshop and other photo editing programs. My employer also knew that I had previous experience working with individuals and companies.

Do you feel your educational background prepared you for your job? Explain.
My educational background gave me the technical skills to be proficient in my job. For example, I learned photoshop which is the editing program that most professional photographers use to tweak their images. My educational background also gave me the social skills to be able to work with people of various backgrounds with various needs.

If applicable, do you feel your internship experience helped you prepare for your job?
I did not have a formal internship.

If someone wanted to go about getting a job similar to yours, what would you recommend for him or her to do?
I would suggest at least getting an undergraduate degree. I would also suggest working with someone in the field as as intern or with an agreement that they would be willing to mentor. Continuing education is also a good way to keep fresh and updated.

What skills do you think a person should have if they want to pursue a position like yours?
A person needs good social skills because they will be working with all kinds of people with varied needs. It is important to be able to communicate well. Organization skills are necessary because there are always deadlines to meet and things need to be prioritized correctly. Technical skills are a must because the client has to had confidence in your ability to get the job done correctly the first time.

Do you feel that you need a certain level of education or training to be successful in your job?
I have a Master’s Degree in an unrelated field but I also have a undergraduate art degree with an emphasis in Photography. I believe my education has served me well in my field and I don’t think I would be as comfortable in the field without it.

What advice would you give to someone who was about to start work in your position/ line of work?
I would suggest that they pay attention to detail and always make notations of how a client envisions their project to be done. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as it is better to be inquisitive then to assume or guess you know what a client might want. Always touch base with your client as the project goes along to make sure you are on the right path as well as to give them an update as to where you are in the process. This makes them feel comfortable as well as makes you accountable and responsible for completing things in a timely manner.