Photojournalist Career Questions...

[jrntr6]

So here's my story (I apologise for the long preamble, but there is a question at the end of this), I'm in my late 20s, I have a university degree in business and about 4 years working experience. I have basically decided that the business world is not for me.

As I love wildlife (and wildlife photography) I started looking at wildlife management college programs to make a career change. While looking at college programs I found a photojournalism program. I became very excited about the program and a possible new career. It's a 2 year program that is mainly focused on photographic aspects of the job but also includes some writing classes.

I realize photojournalism is a very competitive industry, especially since internet news sources are creating more competition and squeezing margins, but I also know (from experience) that I can work hard and succeed in many environments. I'm mostly interested in the photojournalism but the writing classes are also of interest to me as I will try my hand at writing to create more work for myself (assuming I will end up freelancing).

The problem arises, I’ve seen a post on here recently (that I can no longer find), about photojournalist being replaced by journalists with video cameras. Stills are taken from the video, while the video becomes web content.

So I would like some opinions, where do you see the future of photojournalism going? If you take this program (I have already been accepted) will I find myself about to turn 30 and looking at career path that is nearly lost to writers with video cameras? What else should I be considering?

Thanks,

[Mike R]

Things may be different where you are but here, The freelance journalists are now expected to learn how to use a camera and provide shots with their stories. In the past, A photographer was sent along with the reporter. "staff" reporters still get a photographer to go with them. My guess would be that the money is in freelancing to publications that accept articles w/ photos. You need to be a good writer. A lot of newspapers are also folding as revenue and subscriptions fall.

[DanteCaspian]

I am assisting a prof. in a photojournalism class at a local University, and I would like to suggest there is no indication on the global market there is a decline.
The division of the University (School of Journalism and Communication) is sending students all over the world as interns to help fill needs, many end up with full positions at the end of there education, either abroad or at home. It is (at times) cut throat, mostly work your ass off work-- it always has been, and it does not seem to be waining, even with video... there is something about the still image holds demand. Journalism and photojournalism is a life blood of the human condition, supplying the need for individuals and groups to connect to the organism of humanity.

[jrntr6]

Hi dante, thanks for your insight. I assume you work at Carelton. My sister is actually graduate of that program, though she ended up going to law school rather then working in journalism. My brother in law is also the manager of the national press gallory. So needless to say i am gathering information on this possible career move on all fronts.

But right now, it's not looking good. Yours is one of the only positive outlooks i have heard. But i have untill may to decide.

[DanteCaspian]

Yep, Carlton-- small world!
Ultimately in such life choices, I believe you have to follow your passion, if you peruse that with honesty and integrity, you can do great things in time.
If there is anything you would like me to speak with the department on to give perspective, PM me, I would be glad to pass a letter on and write back a summery of what I find.

[jrntr6]

thanks for the offer Dante, i will let you know if I need something.

[golfecho]

Your business degree will come in handy more than you think. If you read many of the postings throughout this forum, you will find that most professionsl folks (at least the very small business/sole proprietor types) will tell you that the career of freelance photographer is 85% business (marketing) and only about 15% shooting. So your degree and experience will pay off after all, and even give you a "leg up" in understanding the ins and outs of running your own business.

[PhotosGuy]

Suggestions for beginning freelance photography? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=582155)