Photojournalist
しゃしんきしゃ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession affiliated with news organizations such as newspapers or wire services, covering and reporting social and political incidents and events through photographs.
Description
Photojournalists are professionals affiliated with news organizations such as newspapers, wire services, and magazines. They cover social, political, cultural events, and incident scenes, record them in photographs, and supply them for news articles. They handle everything from planning coverage to on-site shooting, photo selection and editing, and caption creation. They require technical skills in operating and maintaining photographic equipment, responding quickly to sudden requests, and delivering high-quality images under tight deadlines. Additionally, crisis management skills to accurately assess subjects and surroundings, avoid risks during shooting, and collaborate with editors and reporters are essential. In addition to skills in operating digital cameras and image editing software, the use of new technologies like drones and 360-degree cameras has increased in recent years.
Future Outlook
With the spread of digital media, demand for photos on SNS and online news is increasing. Meanwhile, competition is intensifying due to the widespread use of smartphone photography. High-quality press photography and adaptability to new technologies such as drones and 360-degree cameras will determine market value.
Personality Traits
Curious and inquisitive / Excellent judgment / High crisis management ability / Patient
Work Style
Business Trip Fieldwork / Contract Employee / Contract Work / Freelance / Full-time Media Company Employee
Career Path
Photo Assistant → Junior Photojournalist → Photojournalist → Senior Photojournalist → Photo Editor → Freelance Photojournalist
Required Skills
Composition Design / Image Editing Software (Basic Operation) / Photographic Equipment Operation / Product Knowledge (Cameras, Lenses, Accessories)
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (Foreign Languages) / Drone Photography / Equipment Maintenance / Video Shooting and Editing
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because it is necessary to respond quickly to unpredictable on-site environments and changing situations. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because subtle differences in lighting and composition greatly affect photo quality. |
| Communication Skills | Because frequent coordination with coverage sites and editorial departments occurs. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because creativity in composing shots and capturing moments suited to the situation is required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical stamina is required for long shooting sessions, equipment transport, and on-site waiting. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it is necessary to endure tight deadlines and harsh coverage environments. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mathematical analysis in particular is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Photography Skills Certification
Aliases
- News Cameraman
- Photojournalist
- Press Photographer
Related Jobs
- Journalist
- Photographer
- Reporter
- Television Cameraman