As an amateur photographer, you’re probably looking for any opportunity to gain experience and to begin your portfolio of photography. A portfolio is important if you want to be able to gain jobs in the future. A strong collection of photos can be the deciding factor of whether a client chooses you over other photographers. Be on the lookout for events in your area that you can show up to – parties, graduations, sporting events, and even family reunions.

As a beginner, you should not expect to be paid for your first several “shoots.” These events are for you to gain experience to become a better photographer. Ask family members and friends about upcoming events, and be there to capture the action. You can volunteer to photograph a family member’s birthday party. There are weddings, rehearsals, conventions, and recitals. And there are an endless list of parties that you can attend, which will give you a different experience each time – birthday, engagement, baby shower, anniversary, bridal, and the list goes on. The key thing to remember when shooting for others, is that you need to find out what your client is looking for. If you are unable to meet their requests, they’ll be more unlikely to hire you again.

Get acquainted with your camera and the methods you will develop to taking a great photo. If you aren’t completely happy with your work in the beginning, don’t stress. As you photograph more events, you’ll learn what techniques and styles are best for you. Test your skills at events that don’t allow you as much freedom to move around. Professional sporting events are a perfect example of this, because there will be times where you’ll be stuck in the stands with everyone else, battling to capture a good shot. Unless you receive special access, you won’t be allowed to photograph on the field. You will get more freedom at high school sporting events that will allow you more movement and to capture shots at varying angles.

There are many other places for a photographer to shoot, and if you’re willing, you should make yourself available for as many of these as possible. Look for any opportunity in your area to photograph. Other popular events include high school and family reunions, conventions, baby showers, engagement parties, anniversary parties, concerts, recitals, proms, and graduations. These are perfect chances for a photographer to learn and improve skills.

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