Description
Create professional portraits of individuals, families, and teams in studio or on location, using lighting, posing, and composition to flatter subjects; edit and retouch images for print and digital delivery, while managing client consultations, scheduling, and sales.
- • Photograph individuals, couples, families, and small groups in studio or on location.
- • Pose and coach subjects to achieve flattering expressions, posture, and body angles.
- • Adjust aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and focus based on lighting, depth of field, and subject motion.
- • Use DSLR, mirrorless, or medium-format cameras with appropriate lenses, tripods, and tethering tools.
- • Shape and create light with strobes, softboxes, reflectors, and continuous lighting.
- • Determine concepts, mood, and composition by consulting with clients and reviewing inspiration.
- • Plan wardrobe, hair and makeup, backdrops, and props to match the desired look.
- • Scout and secure locations, permits, and optimal shooting times.
- • Test and calibrate cameras, lenses, and lighting before sessions.
- • Measure and balance light using meters, color targets, and test shots.
- • Set up, mount, and safely operate photographic equipment and backdrops.
- • Select, assemble, and transport gear and studio sets appropriate to each session.
- • Capture tethered or to memory cards and manage media to prevent data loss.
- • Review and cull images to select keepers, and prepare proofing galleries for clients.
- • Retouch portraits for skin, stray hairs, and distractions; color grade and crop for impact.
- • Edit and enhance images using Lightroom, Photoshop, and specialized plugins.
- • Back up, archive, and catalog files with consistent naming and metadata.
- • Produce and deliver high-resolution digital files and web galleries to clients.
- • Prepare, order, and quality-check prints, albums, and wall art.
- • Mount, frame, or laminate finished photographs as requested.
- • Maintain and clean cameras, lenses, sensors, and lighting equipment.
- • Manage bookings, contracts, model releases, invoices, and client communications.
- • Price sessions and products and conduct in-person or virtual sales appointments.
- • Direct assistants, hair and makeup artists, or stylists during sessions and setups.
- • Create marketing materials, portfolios, and studio displays to promote services.
- • Ensure child and newborn safety and accessibility considerations during sessions.
- • Scan film negatives or send film to laboratories and convert to digital files as needed.
- • Write captions and metadata for client galleries and social media posts.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
