Photography Apprenticeships

Can you get an apprenticeship in photography?

100% YES. This is not a drill. You can absolutely accomplish your dreams of becoming the next Rankin through an apprenticeship.

Currently, two apprenticeships are available: a Level 3 (Advanced) Photographic Assistant apprenticeship and Level 4 (Higher) Photographer. Here, you would be carrying out skilled work in the photographic industry utilising common photographic knowledge and skills.

Photography apprenticeships are one of the best ways to jump-start your career, mainly because they combine real-life work experience with gaining an official qualification. You’ll be able to gain valuable skills right out of school, and the best part is you’ll earn a salary.

How does a photography apprenticeship work?

Photography apprenticeships can take place in a studio, on set or outdoors, where you’ll create imagery and video for multiple clients.

The photography apprenticeships lasts around 18 months. You’ll get a ton of practical experience and key skills to help you develop your business sense and become a photography pro.

Some of your tasks will include:

• Assembling and dismantling photography equipment

• Making sure images are to the customer's brief

• Scouting locations and preparing set design

• Using software to edit and process images

• Art direction and taking photos.

Modules will cover:

• Lighting your shoot

• Photography direction

• Photoshop and retouching

• Legal training

• Cybersecurity, storage and backup.

You'll put that knowledge into practice and get out in the field. You’ll spend much of your time working on campaigns ranging from commercial advertisements to magazine editorial images. Don’t get too comfortable in the studio. 

Shoots can often be on location where you’ll be expected to work in various conditions. It’s a bit like being in a nature documentary, just more glamorous.

Depending on who you do your apprenticeship with, you’ll also join the Royal Photographic Society (RPS). Photographers for photographers run it, and there are some pretty decent perks with joining. 

These include:

• Premium Qualifications & Certifications

• Inclusive Mentoring

• Monthly Critiques

• Over 500 hours of learning in video archives and articles

• Membership in the Royal Photographic Society

• Annual International Competition & Event.

Many training providers offer this membership as part of the apprenticeship. 

What type of photography apprenticeships are there?

Photography apprenticeships come in various forms, each focusing on distinct aspects of the industry. Let’s explore the main types you might encounter: 

• Studio photography apprenticeships. You will work in a professional studio setting, assisting with lighting, camera setups, and editing. It’s common in portrait, fashion, or product photography. And you can learn about client communication, shoot planning, and post-production workflows.

• Photojournalism apprenticeships. This combines photography with storytelling, often for news outlets or documentary projects. You get to capture real-life events, people, and places under time pressure. And learn about ethics, media law, and working in fast-paced environments.

• Commercial and advertising photography apprenticeships. Your focus would be on creating high-quality images for brands, marketing campaigns, and products. Involves working closely with creative teams, stylists, and art directors. 

• Photography Assistant Apprenticeships. Entry-level roles that support established photographers. Tasks may include setting up equipment, managing files, and editing photos. Offers a behind-the-scenes view and hands-on learning in real-world shoots.

Which companies offer apprenticeships in photography?

JGA Group

Training provider JGA Group offers the Level 3 Photography Assistant apprenticeship.

Led by Anthony Milner, who has a really impressive CV, including work for Vogue, Savills and Aston Martin, you’ll learn everything a photographer needs to know, plus some essential skills such as developing a strong work ethic and how to be organised.

If you’d like to know more about training providers offering photography apprenticeships, you can check out gov.uk for more information.

The Royal Air Force

You read that correctly. The RAF does indeed offer photography apprenticeships as well as photography jobs. As a photographer, you’ll sit within the engineering team, where you’ll create still imagery for varying aspects of life in the RAF. 

You’ll capture everything from brand photos and crime scenes to sports and VIP visits (including royalty). Some of your responsibilities include;

• Shoot training video films

• Gather photographic evidence for engineering, security and accident investigations

• Print target identification images for aircrews.

You’ll work towards a Level 3 apprenticeship qualification awarded by the British Institute of Professional Photography and be paid around £16,800 in your first six months, which will move up to around £21,400. 

You’ll also receive many very generous benefits, including subsidised rent, food and a free gym membership.

Here’s what a level 3 video and photography assistant apprentice said about their time with Mace:

What GCSEs and A-levels do you need for a photography apprenticeship?

Every level of apprenticeship has a different entry requirement. We’ve listed these below;

• Level 2 - Some ask for two or more GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C). However, lots of Level 2 apprenticeships don’t require GCSEs.

• Level 3 - Five GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A* to C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship

• Level 4/5 (Higher) - Two A-levels or equivalent (like a BTEC or an NVQ/SVQ).

• Level 6/7 (Degree) - Three A-levels graded at A* to C or equivalent.

Creative subjects like art, design, or photography may also help you stand out in your application process, but are unlikely to be necessary to apply. 

It’s always a good idea to check with the employer directly if you're unclear about their entry requirements. Normally, however, they have what they're looking for in an apprentice in the job description. 

How much do you get paid for a photography apprenticeship?

Typically, this will depend on what level you are completing your apprenticeship at, and what type of photography you are doing. You will get at least the national minimum wage for an apprenticeship. However, a lot of companies pay a lot more than this, with the average being £20,000 a year!

With a photography apprenticeship, you also have the opportunity to earn big. While the job market for photographers is competitive, there is still demand for their services!

How to apply for a photography apprenticeship

Applying for a photography apprenticeship starts with finding the right opportunity. You can search creative job boards or directly on the websites of photography studios, media companies, or marketing agencies. Some training providers and colleges also list apprenticeship openings in partnership with local employers, so it’s a good idea to check them out as well!

Once you’ve found a role, you’ll usually need to submit a CV and cover letter. It’s a good idea to include a portfolio of your work, even if it’s just personal or school projects, as this shows your creative eye, technical skills, and passion for photography. 

If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview or informal chat, where you can talk about your interest in photography, your experience, and what you hope to learn. A willingness to learn, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude can go a long way, even if you're just starting.