Best Photography CV Examples

Kellie Hanna, CPRW
By Kellie Hanna, CPRW, Career Advice Expert Last Updated: October 10, 2023
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The field of photography is a creative and dynamic industry that revolves around capturing and preserving moments through the art of visual storytelling. Photographers use their technical skills, artistic vision, and lighting, composition and equipment knowledge to create compelling images. The field offers a wide range of job opportunities, including portrait photographers, wedding photographers, fashion photographers, photojournalists and commercial photographers. Each specialization requires a unique set of skills and expertise, making it essential to have a strong CV that showcases your technical proficiency, artistic style and relevant experience.

In the competitive world of photography, a great CV is crucial to stand out and secure a photography job. A well-crafted CV not only highlights your technical skills and artistic abilities but also demonstrates your unique style and creative vision. It should include a portfolio of your best work, showcasing your ability to capture moments and tell stories through images. Additionally, a strong CV should emphasize your relevant experience, such as internships, freelance projects, or collaborations with other professionals in the industry. By presenting a comprehensive and visually appealing CV, you can effectively demonstrate your talent, professionalism, and suitability for photography jobs, increasing your chances of success in this highly competitive field.

No matter where you are in your photography career, we can help you write a CV to beat the competition and obtain a great photography job. 

We’ll help you build the perfect photography CV or resume and create an effective photography cover letter to accompany it. Plus, we offer some great photography CV examples, resume examples and cover letter examples to get you started.

CV examples for top photography jobs

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Photography CV FAQ

What qualifications do potential employers look for on a photography CV?

Potential employers in the field of photography typically look for specific qualifications on a photography CV. These qualifications may include a formal education in photography or a related field, such as a degree or diploma in photography, visual arts, or fine arts. Employers also value practical experience, so including a portfolio of your work showcasing your technical skills, creativity and versatility is essential.

Additional qualifications that can make a photography CV stand out include certifications in specialized areas of photography, such as wedding photography or photojournalism, proficiency in industry-standard software and editing tools such as an AI photo editor, and a strong understanding of composition, lighting and visual storytelling. Demonstrating a passion for photography, a keen eye for detail and the ability to work well with clients and meet deadlines are also highly valued by potential employers.

How do I write a CV for a photography career with no experience?

When writing a CV for a photography career with no prior experience, focus on highlighting relevant hard and soft skills, education and any related experiences or certifications you may have. 

Begin with a strong objective statement that showcases your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Focus on highlighting your passion for photography and any relevant skills or knowledge you have acquired. 

Focus on showcasing your skills, creativity and passion for the art form. Include a section highlighting any relevant coursework, workshops, or training you have completed in photography. Mention any personal projects or self-initiated work that demonstrates your ability to compose and capture visually appealing images. Include any technical skills you have acquired, such as proficiency in editing software or knowledge of different camera equipment. Lastly, consider including a portfolio section with a selection of your best photographs to provide visual evidence of your talent and potential as a photographer.

How do I pursue a photography career?

To pursue a photography career, it is important to develop a strong foundation in photography skills and techniques. This can be achieved through formal education in photography or by attending workshops and courses. Building a portfolio of your work is crucial to showcase your talent and style to potential clients or employers. Networking with other photographers and industry professionals can provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and exposure. Additionally, leveraging social media platforms and creating an online presence can help in gaining visibility and attracting clients. It is also important to continuously refine your skills, stay updated on industry trends and actively seek out photography job opportunities through online platforms, photography agencies, or freelance websites.

What should be included in a photography CV?

When writing a photography CV, include key information that showcases your photography background and accomplishments

Here are some key elements to include:

  • Contact Information: Include your full name, phone number, email address and professional website or portfolio link.
  • Objective Statement: A concise statement that highlights your career goals and aspirations in photography.
  • Education: List your educational background, including degrees, certifications, or relevant courses in photography or visual arts.
  • Experience: Detail your professional experience in photography, including any relevant positions, freelance work, or internships. Include the name of the company or client, dates of employment and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements.
  • Skills: Highlight your technical skills, such as proficiency in specific photography techniques, equipment, software, or editing tools. Include any additional skills that are relevant to the photography industry, such as lighting, composition, or post-processing.
  • Portfolio: Provide a link to your online portfolio or attach a selection of your best work. This allows potential employers or clients to assess your photography style and capabilities.
  • Awards and Recognition: If you have received any awards, honors, or recognition for your photography work, mention them in this section.
  • Exhibitions or Publications: Include any exhibitions, galleries, or publications where your work has been featured or showcased.
  • References: Optionally, you can include references from previous clients, employers, or mentors who can vouch for your skills and professionalism.
How should I format my photography CV?

It is recommended to use a clean and professional format for your photography CV. Start with a concise summary or objective statement, followed by sections for your work experience, education, technical skills, certifications and any relevant projects or achievements. Use bullet points to highlight your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role.

Should I use a photography CV example to help write my CV?

Using a photography CV example can be a helpful resource when creating your CV. It can provide you with a clear understanding of the sections, formatting and content that should be included in a photography CV. However, it is important to remember that the example should serve as a guide and not be copied verbatim. 

Should I use a photography CV template to create my CV?

When used with a photography CV example, a CV template can be a helpful tool in creating your photography CV. Templates provide a predesigned format and structure that can save you time and ensure that you include all the necessary sections and information. They can also give your CV a professional and polished appearance.

What are some key skills that should be highlighted in a photography CV?

When creating a photography CV, highlight key skills that showcase your expertise and suitability for the field. Some key skills to include are technical proficiency in operating cameras, lenses and lighting equipment, proficiency in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, a strong understanding of composition, lighting and color theory, the ability to capture and convey emotions or tell a story through images, excellent attention to detail, strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with clients and subjects, and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Additionally, highlighting any specialized skills or knowledge in specific photography genres, such as portrait, landscape, fashion, or product photography, can further enhance your CV.

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