As a photographer, you create visual representations of people, landscapes or objects by using light in a controlled environment. This may include conducting photo shoots, editing images and working with various clients or models. Photographers can work in a wide variety of fields, including portrait photography, landscape photography, fashion photography and press photography. Their job is to convey the desired mood or message through creative image composition and technical skills.
A photographer in Germany earns on average about 2,989 euros gross per month. This corresponds to an hourly wage of about 17.24 euros for a 40-hour week. The median gross salary is 3,100 euros per month, with 50% of salaries above this value and 50% below. Depending on work experience, the salary can vary: with over 9 years of experience it is about 40,801 euros per year, with 7-9 years 34,985 euros and with less than 3 years 32,800 euros.
The salary of a photographer can vary depending on the state. In Stuttgart and Munich, the average salary is about 39,400 euros and 39,100 euros per year, while in Hamburg and Berlin it is about 37,400 euros and 35,900 euros.
To become a photographer, you usually need training or a degree in photography or media design. There are also many successful photographers who work as career changers and have acquired the craft through self-study and practical experience. In addition, internships or traineeships in the industry are an advantage in order to make valuable contacts and learn practical skills.
Photographers have the opportunity to specialize in different areas, such as portrait, advertising or fashion photography. There is also the chance to develop their own projects, such as books or art exhibitions. In addition, photographers can work as freelancers and offer their services to a wider market. With experience, photographers can also progress to positions as photo editors or art directors.
