Page 298 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

unpredictable. These depend on the client’s requirements and demands, as well as on the type of photography.
The typical work environment will depend on the nature of the job. Sports and Event Photographers are sometimes expected to work weekends and evenings to cover fixtures and events, while Wedding Photographers can expect a huge workload during the peak wedding seasons. However, a Photographer may opt to work solely in a studio setting. Freelance Photographers may have periods of working at maximum capacity followed by periods of little or no work.
Occupation data
Entry level education / special licences / warrants
To work as a Photographer, one would usually need experience and a portfolio of their work. Although Photographers are usually not required to have any formal qualifications, a qualification in Photography or a related area may be considered an asset. Training programmes include:
• Advanced Diploma in Photography (MCAST) (MQF Level 4)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Photography (MCAST) (MQF Level 6)
• Bachelor of Communications (Honours) (University of Malta) (MQF Level 6)
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) in Digital Arts (University of Malta) (MQF Level 6)
Part-time courses include:
• Photography – Introduction (MCAST)
• Photography – Intermediate (MCAST)
• Digital Photography and Basic Photoshop
Editing (MCAST)
For further details on specific entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the respective educational institution’s website.
Qualifications awarded by foreign bodies need to be recognised or pegged with a particular MQF Level by the MQRIC office within NCFHE.
On-the-job training is usually offered by the employer.
Knowledge and skills
Photographers are expected to have:
• Knowledge of industry standard photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
• Marketing skills
• Knowledge of industry specific hardware
such as cameras, lighting, camera lenses
and laser printers and the ability to use them
• The ability to compose and shoot the pictures
• An understanding of photography jargon
such as ISO, exposure and focal length
• The ability to understand and interpret the
client’s needs
• Knowledge of price setting and current
market rates
Transferable skills should include:
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Numeracy skills
• IT skills
• Customer care skills
• Budgeting skills (particularly for freelancers)
• Organisational and planning skills
Number of employees (2017)
98
Share of foreigners (2017)
30%
Job Outlook (2018 - 2022)
+30%
Median Pay (per annum)
€17,100
Jobsplus
298