How to get into seasonal photographer jobs?

I'm into photography and was thinking about doing it seasonally to make some money. Does anyone have tips for breaking into seasonal photography gigs or know what kind of opportunities might be out there?

Great that you're looking to turn your passion for photography into a potential income source! Seasonal photography jobs can certainly be fun and rewarding.

Start by identifying your preferred niche - would you be interested in seasonal sports like ski photography or would you rather focus on holiday-themed photoshoots such as Christmas or Halloween portraits? Once you've chosen, it's about showcasing your skills:

1. Portfolio Development: Start by developing a robust portfolio. This can include your personal projects or if you've done any prior professional work. It's like a canvas for your potential employers to understand your style, expertise, and experience. Remember to include relevant photos based on the season you're focusing on. Your portfolio doesn't have to be solely digital, although a website can add credibility and reach.

2. Networking: Attend photography meet-ups, exhibitions, and seminars. Connecting with other photographers and industry experts can help you get valuable insights and job leads. Forums and social media sites can also be quite insightful and provide opportunities for showcasing your work and interacting with potential employers.

3. Cold Approach: Consider directly approaching organizations (like ski resorts or event management companies that host seasonal events) and offering your photography services. Be ready with your pitch, how your services could benefit them, and provide cost estimates.

4. Increasing Your Online Presence: Use online platforms to make yourself visible. Make use of social media platforms like Instagram to regularly upload your work. This not only helps in creating an online presence but also operates as an online portfolio. A LinkedIn profile with your skills, experience, and portfolio could also help. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer also often have independent photography job postings.

5. Intern or Volunteer: You may want to consider interning with a professional photographer or volunteering your time for events in exchange for exposure and experience. This not only shores up your portfolio but also lets you make valuable industry contacts.

Remember, patience is key when starting out, but as you build your portfolio and contact base, you'll find the opportunities will start to come more frequently. Good luck!