Photographers produce images that paint a picture, tell a story, or record an event.

Most photographers specialize in one of several areas.

• Portrait photographers pose their subjects and carefully arrange lighting
• Commercial photographers take pictures of products, scenery, or buildings
• Industrial photographers take photos of equipment, products, and workers
• News photographers record people, places, and events in the news
• Fine arts photographers sell their photos as artwork
• Scientific photographers may use equipment such as electron microscopes to take photos of tiny items

All photographers have several tasks in common. They select the camera and equipment that will best meet the needs of the job. Photographers must choose film, lenses, filters, and flash attachments. They set up the camera to frame the subject for the best composition. They arrange the background and lighting to create the desired effect. They also arrange people or objects in the desired position. In studio settings, photographers can control all these elements. When working in the field, they must often make do with the available conditions.

Photographers focus the camera and adjust the settings based on lighting, subject matter, distance, and film or shutter speed. Some develop their own film and print photos. Those who work with color film often send it to laboratories for processing. Photographers who use digital cameras often will process their prints with computer software. They may print photos themselves using photo paper and printers or have them printed elsewhere.

Photographers who work for large operations may direct the work of others. Self-employed photographers carry out basic business tasks. For example, they order supplies, keep records, and bill clients.