I graduated from j-school a few years ago with a major
in journalism and a minor in graphic communication. My ultimate goal is
working full time as a newspaper or magazine photographer, or as an
editor (Who doesn't want to be an editor?).
ASK JOE
A
QUESTION
|
To get your question answered on this page,
send
it to Joe here. Please include your full name in your message to Joe.
If you prefer that your surname not be published, please indicate
that. |
|
My first job was at a
thrice-weekly newspaper, where I was a beat reporter and took photos
(for my own stories and by assignment). My second job, where I'm at
now, is as a graphic designer for a magazine.
All the while, I've worked as a freelance photographer on the side
(everything from family portraits to national magazines). I'm looking
to make a move, so I would happily take a reporter job or another
design/production gig (My current company is unstable.), but I would
prefer a photo department position (not seeing many openings).
How do I apply to publications and market all of my skills without
seeming like I have no direction or specialty? With the huge number of
people wanting to be photographers these days, I don't want to look
like another reporter who just has some knowledge of digital cameras
(There's nothing wrong with that, but my photography skills are really
where I stand out.).
My work should speak for itself, but I can't help but wonder if
recruiters/editors won't give my photo portfolio a glance when they see
that I'm "actually" a reporter or graphic artist. Plus, who is going to
hire a candidate as a reporter or designer who eventually wants to be a
photographer? All through college I was taught that being
multi-talented is the way to go, but now I feel stuck because of it.
Any advice?
Thanks,
Sandra
You don't know it, but you have a great sense of career timing.
You
have become exactly what a lot of newspapers are discovering they need.
Market yourself as multi-media, not merely multi-talented.
That will help us editors and recruiters get it about you.
So many traditional newsrooms are awakening to the fact that
they need reporters who can shoot digital photos, photographers who can
capture video and audio, and journalists who can work on multiple
platforms, that the demand for people just like you is growing.
Re-tool your resume and portfolio, add some online skills to
your bag of tricks, give it six months to marinate, and let us watch you
go.
