Photography Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of visual storytelling, the role of photography instructors has never been more critical.

As visual mediums continue to evolve, the demand for skilled experts who can teach, guide, and inspire budding photographers grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a photography instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art and science of photography instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable photography instructor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get straight into it.

Photography Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Photography Instructors are responsible for teaching the technical, aesthetic, and theoretical aspects of photography to students.

They combine a passion for photography with a desire to teach and inspire others.

The following are some of the typical duties and responsibilities of a Photography Instructor:

• Develop and implement comprehensive lesson plans that guide and support students in learning photography techniques and concepts
• Deliver lectures and presentations on photography topics such as composition, lighting, and color theory
• Teach students how to use different types of cameras, lenses, and other photography equipment
• Demonstrate and instruct on the post-production process including photo editing and retouching, using software such as Photoshop and Lightroom
• Review and provide constructive feedback on students’ work, encouraging their creativity and improvement
• Maintain a safe and conducive learning environment in the classroom or studio
• Keep up to date with the latest photography trends, techniques, and technology
• Plan and organize photography field trips or workshops
• Assess student progress and adapt teaching methods to cater to different learning styles
• Teach students about the history of photography and influential photographers

 

Photography Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled and passionate Photography Instructor to teach classes on various photography skills and techniques.

The Photography Instructor’s responsibilities include preparing lesson plans, guiding students on the art and science of photography, and providing constructive feedback.

Our ideal candidate is a professional photographer with a solid understanding of photography best practices, techniques, and the use of different types of photographic equipment.

Ultimately, the role of the Photography Instructor is to inspire, educate and equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to pursue their passion in photography.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver photography lessons to students of different skill levels.
• Teach students about the fundamental principles of photography.
• Guide students in the use of various photographic equipment and software.
• Provide feedback to students and evaluate their progress.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest photography trends, techniques, and equipment.
• Maintain a positive and motivating learning environment.
• Manage student behavior to ensure a productive and disciplined learning environment.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in professional development activities.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a professional photographer.
• Prior experience as a Photography Instructor or similar role is an advantage.
• Extensive knowledge of photography techniques, equipment, and software.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex concepts in a simple manner.
• Ability to inspire and motivate students.
• Good organizational and time-management skills.
• A degree in Photography, Visual Arts or relevant field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Photography Instructor
• Work Environment: Classroom setting, with potential for outdoor field trips for practical application of lessons.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Head or School Principal.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a portfolio of your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Photography Instructor Do?

A Photography Instructor is a professional who teaches students the art and science of photography.

They are usually skilled photographers who are also knowledgeable in the technical aspects of cameras and lighting.

They can work in a variety of settings, such as art schools, community colleges, or private workshops.

Photography Instructors teach students how to take professional photos, edit them, and prepare them for display or publication.

They cover a wide range of topics such as camera operation, lighting techniques, composition, and image processing.

They may also educate students on the history of photography and the different types of photography, like portrait, landscape, aerial, architectural, and more.

Photography Instructors often assign projects to students to provide hands-on experience.

They review and critique these projects to help students improve their skills.

In addition to teaching, they may also be responsible for maintaining photography lab equipment and keeping up to date with the latest photography technology and techniques.

They often inspire students and help them develop their unique style and vision, fostering a deep understanding and love for the art of photography.

 

Photography Instructor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Photography Instructor should have a blend of technical expertise, teaching abilities and interpersonal skills, such as:

• Technical proficiency in using a variety of photographic equipment and software, such as DSLRs, lighting equipment, Adobe Photoshop, and Lightroom.
• Strong knowledge of photography techniques and principles, including lighting, composition, color theory, and depth of field.
• Experience in various fields of photography, such as portrait, landscape, product, or event photography, to provide students with broad knowledge and practical examples.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to clearly explain complex photographic concepts and techniques to students of varying levels of proficiency.
• Patience and interpersonal skills to work with students who may struggle with grasping concepts or techniques.
• Problem-solving skills to provide creative solutions to photographic challenges or issues that students may encounter.
• Organizational skills to plan and deliver lessons in a structured and systematic manner.
• Continual learner who stays updated on the latest trends, techniques, and technologies in photography.

 

Photography Instructor Experience Requirements

For Photography Instructors, experience is vital and is generally gathered through years of practical photography work.

This can be through freelance work, employment in a photography studio or photojournalism, or other roles that heavily involve photography.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of hands-on photography experience, often through internships, part-time roles, or personal projects.

They may also have a solid foundation in photography theory, which can be obtained through formal education or self-study.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often proficient in a wide range of photography styles and techniques.

They may have experience in specific photography genres such as wedding, portrait, landscape, wildlife, or commercial photography.

Furthermore, they may have begun sharing their skills through workshops, online tutorials, or other informal teaching methods.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically seasoned photographers who have honed their craft over the years.

They may have a portfolio showcasing a breadth of work across various themes and settings.

At this stage, they would likely have some teaching or mentoring experience.

They may be ready to take on the role of a Photography Instructor in a formal educational setting, where they can impart their wisdom and experience to aspiring photographers.

In all cases, solid technical knowledge of cameras and other photography equipment is crucial.

Familiarity with photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop is also typically required.

In addition, effective communication and teaching skills are essential for successfully transferring knowledge and skills to students.

 

Photography Instructor Education and Training Requirements

Photography Instructors typically have a bachelor’s degree in photography, visual arts, or a related field.

This education allows them to gain a solid understanding of different types of photography, techniques, and equipment.

In addition to a degree, they should have a considerable amount of practical experience in photography.

This experience can come from freelance work, internships, or previous employment in a photography-related role.

Many institutions prefer Photography Instructors who have some teaching experience, whether that’s as a teaching assistant during their studies, providing one-on-one tutorials or running photography workshops.

Certain positions may require Photography Instructors to have a master’s degree in photography or education, especially for teaching at the college or university level.

Photography Instructors can also benefit from a certification in teaching.

This certification, although not always required, demonstrates a formal understanding of teaching methodologies and principles, which can enhance their effectiveness in the classroom.

Continuing education is important in this role due to the constant developments in photographic technology and techniques.

Therefore, Photography Instructors should be committed to ongoing learning and staying updated with the latest trends in the photography industry.

 

Photography Instructor Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Photography Instructor is around $49,282 (USD) per year.

The actual income can differ based on factors such as years of teaching experience, the location of the institution, and the type of courses being taught.

 

Photography Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Photography Instructor need?

Photography Instructors should possess excellent knowledge of camera equipment, lighting, and composition.

They should be skilled in various forms of photography such as portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and photojournalism.

In addition to technical skills, they should have strong communication and presentation abilities to effectively teach students.

Patience and empathy are also important in understanding the different learning paces and styles of students.

 

Do Photography Instructors need a degree?

While a degree in Photography or a related field can be beneficial, it isn’t always necessary.

The crucial requirement is extensive experience and skills in photography.

However, if the position is in an academic setting, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree might be necessary.

In addition, a teaching certification might also be required, depending on the institution.

 

What should you look for in a Photography Instructor’s resume?

Look for a solid background in photography, showcasing their experience and the variety of projects they have worked on.

Also, check for any teaching or mentoring experience.

Certifications or degrees related to photography or education should also be noted.

Evidence of continued learning and staying updated with the latest photography trends and techniques is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Photography Instructor?

A good Photography Instructor is passionate about photography and is enthusiastic about sharing that passion with their students.

They must be patient and adaptable, adjusting their teaching methods according to the needs of individual students.

They should also have excellent communication skills to deliver complex concepts in an understandable way.

Being open to feedback and willing to constantly improve their teaching methods is also a sign of a good instructor.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Photography Instructor?

Hiring a Photography Instructor can be challenging as you need to find someone who not only has a deep understanding and skill in photography but also has the ability to effectively teach and inspire students.

They also need to be adaptable and up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in photography.

Therefore, it’s important to have a thorough hiring process to ensure you find the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shone a light on what it truly takes to be a photography instructor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about taking pictures.

It’s about capturing the world through a lens and teaching others to do the same.

With our definitive photography instructor job description template and hands-on examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your compass to perfect job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every snapshot is a piece of the bigger panorama.

Let’s capture that world. Together.