Your photographer resume should demonstrate artistic vision and in-depth digital editing and retouching skills. Display your deep knowledge of software platforms such as Adobe and your ability to coordinate and execute photo shoots to deliver high-impact visual assets. Review our list of tips and examples to level up your resume.
Key Takeaways
- Emphasize specializations: Photographers can specialize in different types of photography, from photojournalism to portraits to nature and more. The equipment you use and the digital photo applications you master can also help differentiate your work. Get as specific as you can in your resume, especially when your specialties align with a prospective opportunity.
- Detail quantifiable achievements: Photography skills can be subjective, but if there are ways to quantify your achievements, include them on your resume. For example, if you’ve grown your clientele, gotten strong customer ratings, or helped drive traffic to a website with your work, share those numbers.
- Use keywords for ATS: Incorporating similar keywords and phrases used in each job description you apply for is a smart way to frame your photography skills and accomplishments. Plus, it can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Most Popular Photography Resumes
Freelance Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume showcases a clear progression from internship to junior role, highlighting technical proficiency in Adobe tools and hands-on experience in both commercial and editorial photography. The education section confirms a relevant degree, demonstrating foundational expertise.
Key Tips
Quantify your technical skill application and progression—emphasizing specific software proficiency (Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom) helps demonstrate value. For guidance on selecting impactful skills, see Hard Skills for a Resume.
Commercial Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume emphasizes leadership in project management (“managing photography projects from inception to completion”) and quantifies client satisfaction (50% repeat business) and image quality improvements (80%). It balances technical and interpersonal proficiencies.
Key Tips
To underline relationship management, highlight post-production impact and client metrics, such as “50% repeat business.” For best practices in structuring achievements, visit Best Resume Formats.
Lead Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying brand awareness improvements (30%) and team productivity gains (25%), this resume highlights both creative leadership and mentorship. The dual advanced degrees affirm deep technical and artistic grounding.
Key Tips
Quantify creative and mentorship outcomes like “30% increase in brand awareness” to convey impact. For suggestions on refining creative profiles, see How to Write a Resume Summary.
Entry-Level Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume demonstrates proactive initiative—organizing a photography club—and shows tangible outcomes: “minimizing setup time by 15%” and “48-hour image delivery.” The entry level profile is supported by relevant internships and freelance work.
Key Tips
Emphasize quick turnaround and organizational improvements — “delivering within 48 hours” signals reliability. For advice on crafting an entry-level profile, consult How to Write a Resume with No Experience.
Event Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying volume (“50+ events annually”) and turnaround time (“within 72 hours”), this resume highlights reliability and efficiency. Client relationship skills are underscored by coordinated shot lists and venue access.
Key Tips
Demonstrate quick delivery metrics: “48-hour gallery turnaround” strengthens trust. For best practices in managing client communications, refer to Communication Skills on a Resume.
Fashion Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume highlights fashion-specific skills like editorial spreads and model collaboration and quantifies output (“over 2,000 images”). The portfolio feature note and on-location coordination reinforce industry credibility.
Key Tips
Emphasize collaboration with creative teams: “collaborating with makeup artists and stylists” shows adaptability. For fashion resume formatting, visit Best Resume Formats.
Food Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By listing “100+ dishes per year” and “reduced shoot time by 20%,” this resume conveys volume and efficiency. The mix of studio and location experience shows adaptability in food-specific environments.
Key Tips
Quantify shoot volume and efficiency: “100+ dishes” underscores expertise. For details on listing specialized skills, see Technical Skills in an IT Resume.
News Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume emphasizes rapid turnaround (“within 30 minutes”) and volume (“10,000 images”), showcasing the candidate’s reliability under deadline constraints. Awards and internship experience solidify credibility.
Key Tips
Highlight quick editing skills: “submitted within 30 minutes” demonstrates responsiveness. For strategies on storytelling with photos, consult Work Experience on a Resume.
Photographer Assistant Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying setup improvements (“20% reduction in setup time”) and digital asset volumes (“5,000 images”), this resume highlights operational support capabilities. Collaboration with creative teams further underscores teamwork.
Key Tips
Emphasize technical support metrics: “20% reduced setup time” shows efficiency. For tips on listing collaborative skills, see Transferable Skills Resume.
Portrait Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
The resume quantifies portrait volume (“300+ sessions annually”) and client satisfaction (98%), illustrating consistent delivery of quality work. The quick turnaround metric and scheduling improvements emphasize professionalism.
Key Tips
Quantify session volume and client happiness to demonstrate reliability. For guidance on achieving consistent portrait editing styles, visit How to List Skills on a Resume.
Real Estate Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume highlights specialized real estate metrics, such as “150+ properties annually” and “40% increase in listing views,” showing the photographer’s direct impact on marketing performance. Drone certification further differentiates the candidate.
Key Tips
Emphasize technical specialties—HDR, drones—to stand out. For advice on listing specialized credentials, see Computer Skills for a Resume.
Sports Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying event volume (“100+ sporting events”) and turnaround time (“within 24 hours”), this resume underscores reliability and skill under pressure. An industry award adds further credibility.
Key Tips
Highlight action‐shot accolades and fast delivery: “Best Action Shot” demonstrates expertise. For more on photojournalism strategies, consult How to List Volunteer Work on a Resume.
Wildlife Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume emphasizes ethical and technical skills, such as remote camera traps and compliance with conservation guidelines, and quantifies output (“1,000+ images annually”). Published credits add notable validation.
Key Tips
Showcase conservation credentials and specialized techniques: “long‐lens” and “remote camera trapping” underline expertise. For details on listing specialized education, refer to How to List Education on a Resume.
Wedding Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying wedding volume (“35 to 40 per year”) and client satisfaction (99%), this resume demonstrates consistent experience and reliability. Album design efficiency highlights additional creative skills.
Key Tips
Detail event volume and delivery speed: “sneak-peek within 48 hours” indicates responsiveness. For tips on organizing large galleries, see How to Use Bullet Points on a Resume Effectively.
Drone Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume quantifies aerial impact (“35% increase in listing views”) and operational efficiency (“25% fewer interruptions”), demonstrating technical aptitude and business value. FAA certification is highlighted prominently.
Key Tips
Show regulatory compliance and ROI: “FAA Part 107” and “35% listing view increase” illustrate expertise. For more on listing certifications, refer to How to List Certifications on a Resume.
Editorial Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying audience engagement (“20% increase in page views”) and publication reach (“five national magazines”), this resume underscores editorial impact and negotiation skills. Collaboration with layout teams highlights teamwork.
Key Tips
Emphasize editorial collaboration: “integrate images into print spreads” shows cross-department synergy. For guidance on presenting print achievements, consult How to List Publications on a Resume.
Product Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume clearly connects product photography to business outcomes, “25% increase in conversion rates,” and showcases volume (“200+ products per month”). Technical skills in macro and reflective techniques demonstrate specialization.
Key Tips
Tie technical techniques to ROI: “25% higher click-through” emphasizes impact. For more on optimizing images for e-commerce, refer to Computer Skills for a Resume.
Fine Art Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume highlights analog expertise (“large-format film,” “darkroom development”) and exhibition achievements (“three solo exhibitions”). The grant award underscores recognition in the fine art community.
Key Tips
Emphasize analog and curation skills to stand out in fine art niches. For guidance on showcasing creative achievements, see Best Looking Resumes.
Pet Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
By quantifying session volume (“200+ pet sessions annually”) and impact on rescue adoptions (“30% increase”), this resume demonstrates both technical skill and community contribution. Fast-turnaround and client satisfaction metrics underscore reliability.
Key Tips
Highlight your specialty techniques like “burst mode to capture action,” and quantify outcomes like adoption-rate improvements to show real-world value. For guidance on presenting niche skills, check out Hard Skills for a Resume.
Architectural Photographer Resume Example

Why This Resume Is a Great Example
This resume highlights technical mastery (“tilt-shift lenses,” “HDR bracketing”) and business impact (“25% higher click-through rates”), demonstrating an ability to translate photographic techniques into marketing results. Site coordination metrics underscore reliability.
Key Tips
Emphasize specialized equipment and post-production skills, such as “perspective correction on 800+ images,” to set yourself apart. For tips on structuring technical achievements, visit Best Resume Formats.
Photography Text-Only Resume Examples and Templates
How To Write a Photography Resume Example
Using a resume template can help you write an engaging photographer resume that will capture the attention of hiring managers. Your photographer resume should include the following information:
- Contact information
- Profile
- Key skills
- Professional experience
- Education and certifications
1. Share your contact information
Provide your full name, phone number, email address, location, and a link to your online professional profile and website. Ensure your contact information is current so potential employers can contact you for an interview. As always, review carefully to catch typos that could misdirect a hiring manager.
Example
Your Name
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code
LinkedIn | Portfolio
2. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications
In a few sentences, summarize your professional background, relevant skills, and experience as a photographer. Your profile should make a strong, compelling introduction. Highlight your strengths and integrate keywords from the job description to show you’re a good match for the position.
Senior-Level Profile Example
Accomplished lead photographer with strong academic credentials complemented by vast experience with respected companies such as The Walt Disney Company and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Demonstrated expertise in mentoring junior photographers, developing creative concepts, and managing projects and client relationships. Previous achievements include innovating photographic ideas, bolstering brand awareness, client satisfaction, and team productivity.
Entry-Level Profile Example
Dedicated photographer with strong background in technical photography skills, digital editing, and visual thinking. Recent BFA graduate known for excellence in post-processing, quality results, and visual storytelling.
3. Add a compelling section featuring your photography experience
This section of your professional resume should list your previous positions as a photographer, including job duties, employer names, and dates of employment. Highlight specific achievements and accomplishments, quantifying your results whenever possible.
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Lead Photographer, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., Burbank, CA | October 2018 – present
- Conceived and implemented distinctive photographic concepts for major branding projects and advertising campaigns, contributing to a 30% increase in brand awareness in one year
- Managed diverse client base and handled negotiations, including pricing and contractual terms, leading to a 95% client satisfaction rate in 2019
- Mentored and trained five junior photographers, providing both technical and artistic guidance, which resulted in a 25% increase in team productivity in three months
Senior Photographer, Adobe Systems, San Jose, CA | June 2014 – September 2018
- Utilized advanced photographic techniques and editing software to produce high-quality images for a range of clients, resulting in a 20% increase in business in one quarter
- Directed photo shoots from concept to completion, ensuring consistency with client objectives and deadlines
- Built and maintained strong relationships with clients as well as developed new business leads, leading to a robust client base and a 15% increase in company revenue in six months
Entry-Level Professional Experience Example
Junior Photographer, Studio Creative, Providence, RI, August 2021 – present
- Operate and maintain various types of photography equipment, effectively ensuring minimal downtime and consistent image quality
- Shoot a broad range of subjects and themes as per project requirements, continuously improving framing and angle adjustment skills to achieve the best results
- Process and edit using Adobe Photoshop to further enhance and perfect images, improving aspects such as light and contrast
Photography Intern, The Providence Journal, Providence, RI, January 2021 – July 2021
- Experimented with different types of photography equipment like cameras, lenses, and lighting
- Photographed for a number of photojournalism projects, improving the ability to adjust angles and frames to capture superior shots
- Used Adobe Lightroom to improve light, contrast, and minor details in photographs taken
Resume writer’s tip: Quantify your experience
Quantify your professional photography experience by sharing metrics, figures, percentages, and other data demonstrating your success.
Do
- “Applied technical knowledge and editing software skills to manage post-production tasks, reducing turnaround time by 15% in one month.”
Don’t
- “Responsible for handling post-production tasks and making sure they went smoothly.”
Resume writer’s tip: Tailor your resume for each application
Align your resume with each position you apply for by incorporating target keywords and language similar to what is presented in the job description. This will increase the chances of capturing a hiring manager’s attention and landing an interview.
What if you don’t have experience?
Creating a photography resume can be challenging if you don’t have real-world experience. But you can still highlight relevant coursework and photo projects to demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. Also, include volunteer roles, such as taking photographs for clubs or school events.
4. Include education and certifications relevant to photography
List relevant education and certifications you’ve earned to show you are a well-qualified photographer. For example, if you are certified through the Professional Photographers of America, it can lend some credibility to your skills. Include the title of the degree or certificate earned, institution’s name, and the completion date. Also include continuing education courses and professional development programs you’ve completed.
Education
Template:
[Degree Name]
[School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
Example:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography
Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, RI | 2018
Certifications
Template:
[Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
Example:
- Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Professional Photographers of America (PPA), 2020
5. List photography-related skills and proficiencies
Display the specific photography skills that make you a strong candidate for the position. Select hard skills such as digital editing and Adobe and soft skills such as cross-departmental collaboration and artistic vision. Strategically choose which skill to include. Review which skills the company seeks to align your skills with the job description.
Here are some possible skills you can include:
Key Skills and Proficiencies | |
---|---|
Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop | Artistic vision |
Color correction | Digital editing and retouching |
Lighting and composition techniques | Photoshoot coordination and management |
Resume writer’s tip: Use specific action verbs
Take a strategic approach with the words you use on your photographer resume. In the professional experience section, incorporate action verbs to communicate your job duties and accomplishments. Instead of listing responsibilities, start each section with an action verb to inject energy into your resume. Avoid the first person, such as, “I was responsible for,” and instead use some of the following words to showcase your experience.
Action Verbs | |
---|---|
Analyzed | Captured |
Collaborated | Conceptualized |
Created | Edited |
Executed | Managed |
Marketed | Negotiated |
Organized | Photographed |
Researched | Retouched |
Streamlined | Troubleshot |
How To Pick the Best Photography Resume Template
When seeking photography roles, choose a resume template that looks professional and clean so that your skills and accomplishments can stand out. While you might want to include photographic elements, it’s best to keep your resume plain text (and ATS-friendly) and include a link to a digital portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions: Photography Resume Examples and Advice
Photography jobs are expected to grow as fast as the average occupation through 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To compete with your peers seeking the top roles in the field, match your resume as closely as you can to each specific organization's job description. Listing the most relevant skills and accomplishments can help your resume stand out.
A reverse-chronological resume format is most often the best option for job seekers, including photographers. The exception is if you've done nontraditional work, such as a number of freelance photography projects, rather than work for one employer. In that case, you might use a combination resume format.
To make your Photographer CV stand out, focus on quantifying achievements and showing measurable results from your previous roles. Whether it's improving processes, reducing costs, or increasing efficiency, showcasing the tangible impact you made will make your CV more compelling. Also, ensure that the design is clean and easy to read, with relevant keywords strategically placed.
Include a cover letter with your resume
Crafting a cover letter to accompany your resume allows you to highlight how your skills match what a particular organization is looking for.
Check Out Related Examples
Resume Templates offers free, HR approved resume templates to help you create a professional resume in minutes. Choose from several template options and even pre-populate a resume from your profile.