We surveyed 460 photojournalists to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical photojournalist. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a photojournalist?
Low
High
Working as a photojournalist typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a photojournalist?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a photojournalist typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a photojournalist?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically difficult to find a job as a photojournalist.
Do photojournalists work full-time or part-time?
46% of photojournalists work in full-time roles while 54% work part-time.
Is being a photojournalist stressful?
Low
High
Stress is not uncommon amongst photojournalists, with daily work sometimes being quite demanding.
Is being organized important as a photojournalist?
Low
High
Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a photojournalist.
How competitive is the workplace for photojournalists?
Low
High
Photojournalists tend to see lots of competition in the workplace, with desire to get ahead of co-workers being common.
Does being a photojournalist require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Photojournalists will have to sometimes face time pressure on the job.
Are photojournalists allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Photojournalists are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.
Do photojournalists have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Photojournalists have high flexibility in the direction of their work, allowing them a lot of freedom in how they accomplish their goals.
Is being a photojournalist physically demanding?
Low
High
Being a photojournalist may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.
Are photojournalists exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Photojournalists tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a photojournalist require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a photojournalist.
Does being a good photojournalist require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a photojournalist.