cover letter examples for photography

10 Photographer Cover Letter Examples

Photographers excel at capturing moments, telling stories through images, and bringing out the unseen beauty in their subjects. Similarly, your cover letter is your chance to capture the attention of recruiters, tell your professional story, and highlight the unique qualities that make you the perfect candidate. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Photographers, helping you to frame your skills and experiences in the most captivating way.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Photographer cover letter is by grabbing the reader's attention with a strong opening line. This could be a brief statement about your passion for photography, a notable achievement, or a unique skill you possess. For example, "As a photographer who has captured award-winning images for renowned magazines, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creative vision to your team." This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also gives a glimpse of your experience. Remember to address the hiring manager by name if possible, to make your letter more personal and engaging.

Photographers should end a cover letter by summarizing their skills, experience, and passion for photography. They should reiterate their interest in the position and express enthusiasm about the possibility of contributing to the company or client's visual storytelling. It's also important to thank the reader for their time and consideration. For example: "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique vision, technical skills, and passion for storytelling to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my background and skills would be a good fit for your photography needs." Remember to end with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information. This leaves a positive, professional impression and makes it easy for them to reach out to you.

A photographer's cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is enough to succinctly introduce yourself, explain your interest in the position, highlight your relevant skills and experiences, and conclude with a call to action. As a photographer, your cover letter should be concise and impactful, allowing your portfolio to showcase your talent and skills. Remember, hiring managers often have many applications to go through, so a shorter, well-crafted cover letter is more likely to hold their attention.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a photographer can seem daunting, but it's absolutely possible. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting to show you're actively seeking opportunities in photography. 2. Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have professional experience, you likely have skills that are relevant to photography. These could be technical skills like understanding of lighting, composition, and editing software, or soft skills like creativity, attention to detail, and patience. Make sure to explain how these skills can benefit the employer. 3. Showcase Your Passion: Employers want to hire people who are passionate about their work. Talk about why you love photography, what inspired you to pursue it, and how you've been developing your skills. This could include self-taught practice, online courses, or even just a keen interest in visual arts. 4. Include Any Related Experience: If you've done any unpaid work, like shooting for a friend's wedding or a local event, don't hesitate to include it. You can also mention any relevant coursework or school projects. 5. Mention Your Willingness to Learn: Employers understand that everyone has to start somewhere. Express your eagerness to learn and grow in the field of photography. 6. Close with a Strong Conclusion: Reiterate your interest in the position and your eagerness to contribute your skills and passion to their team. Thank them for considering your application and express hope for further discussion. 7. Attach a Portfolio: If possible, attach a portfolio of your work or provide a link to an online portfolio. This gives potential employers a chance to see your skills firsthand. Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Your passion and dedication can often be just as valuable as direct experience. Good luck!

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Photographer Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Photographer Cover Letter

To write a good photographer cover letter, focus on how you can take clear, striking images for the client or organization that posted the job. Link to your online portfolio and emphasize your related skills, such as subject lighting or equipment troubleshooting.

This guide will help you write a cover letter that gets you interviews for your next job as a photographer.

Photographer Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Photographer Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Derek Smith Photographer | [email protected] | (876) 429-7462 | Virginia Beach, VA 18573 | Portfolio

May 7, 2024

Jaime Nguyen Senior Hiring Manager Classic Photographers (746) 7593-1836 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Nguyen,

Last year, I created a client referral scheme that boosted my bookings by 43% in a single fiscal quarter. My high-quality portfolio and talent for building a quick rapport with clients helped me achieve this result. I look forward to generating impressive revenues as a freelancer at Classic Photographers.

As a creative professional with over two years of experience shooting weddings, I am drawn to Classic Photographers’s reputation for superb customer service. My passion for combining cutting-edge techniques with diligent client care makes me the ideal fit for your company. My recent accomplishments include:

• Leading a team of three newly-graduated photographers to shoot a week-long wedding celebration in Bali
• Receiving a 100% client satisfaction rating in 2023
• Consistently scoring in the top 2% of photographers at my agency for image quality and efficiency

Please get in touch to arrange a suitable interview appointment. I look forward to exploring how I can leverage my skills to create unforgettable memories for your wedding clients.

Derek Smith

Maria Mongaraz Photographer | [email protected]  | (123) 456-7890  | Nashville, TN 12345 | Portfolio

August 8, 2024

Melissa Oppenheimer Director of Human Resources XYZ Creatives 765-432-1987 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Oppenheimer,

In 2018, my portfolio project “Scenes of Hope” won first prize in the portrait photography category at the Savannah Arts Festival.  The judges described my work as unique, creative, and insightful. They also praised my talent in using focus and lighting to create attention-grabbing portraits. Those are skills I want to bring to XYZ Creatives as a staff photographer.

The mission at XYZ Creatives is to use photography to tell a story. My portrait techniques can help your business achieve this mission. Since graduating from the photography program at Savannah College of Art and Design, I have spent the past two years taking headshots, graduation photos, and other portraits as a freelance photographer. In my free time, I volunteered my photography skills to take professional headshots for women fleeing domestic violence who needed to find employment.

These projects helped me develop key skills, including:

• Connecting with photographic subjects
• Using color to create atmosphere
• Adjusting light and shadow to draw the eye

Portrait photography is my passion. I look forward to discussing how my work can benefit XYZ Studios with you.

Maria Mongaraz

Jermaine Burnett Photographer | [email protected] | (874) 395-2948 | Montgomery, AL 43019 | Portfolio

May 11, 2024

Andrea Levison Senior Hiring Manager Mom365 (745) 103-4928 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Levison,

In my first year as a newborn photographer, I exceeded my individual sales targets by 76%. My warm and sensitive interpersonal style and ability to adapt my service according to each family’s needs allowed me to achieve this result. I am excited to demonstrate the same outstanding customer care as a photographer at Mom365.

As a creative and passionate individual with specific expertise in capturing images of babies and children, the chance to work for an industry leader like Mom365 is irresistible to me. My latest achievements show I have the technical and soft skills to fit perfectly into your organization. These include:

• Achieving full marks during a recent spot check to ensure compliance with hospital and HIPAA regulations
• Receiving a personal email of thanks for creating beautiful images for a mother who had experienced a traumatic labor
• Consistently exceeding monthly productivity targets by at least 23% throughout my employment

I look forward to meeting you to discuss how my skills and 1 year of newborn photography experience can benefit your company and its customers. Please get in touch to arrange an interview.

Jermaine Burnett

A great photographer cover letter usually has five sections, outlined below. When possible, connect each section back to your defining skills and the employer’s photography needs. The following advice and examples show what to include in your cover letter so it’s optimized for each job application.

At the top of the page, include your resume contact header, the date, and any basic details you have about your recipient (as in the example below). To set a clear focus, add the title Photographer to your contact header and provide a link to your portfolio or online work samples. You can then modify your title to align with each job posting. For instance, you could use the title Travel Photographer if that’s closer to the role in question and still true to your experience.

(Note: Feel free to omit this section if you send your letter by email and your contact details are part of your signature.)

2. Salutation

Whenever you can, address your recipient by name – it’s the quickest way to signal you’re sending a job-specific letter and not a boilerplate. If you can’t find the recipient’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager” so your greeting is still tailored somewhat to each job application.

Dear Classic Photographers Hiring Manager:

3. “Hook” or introduction

Catch the reader’s attention by starting your letter with a clear example or measure of your success. What’s a key way you’ve been recognized for taking unique, creative, or insightful photos? For instance, maybe you recently won an arts festival award for outstanding portraits. Your cover letter intro should leave no doubt as to your relevant photography skills and interests.

In my first year as a newborn photographer, I exceeded my individual sales targets by 76%. My warm and sensitive interpersonal style and ability to adapt my service according to each family’s needs allowed me to achieve this result. I am excited to demonstrate the same outstanding customer care as a photographer at Mom365.

4. Body paragraph(s)

Use the main section of your letter to tell why this photography job opening suits you. For example, maybe you identify with the company’s mission around visual storytelling. Or perhaps the role uses lighting techniques or photo-editing software in which you have advanced expertise.

Following this explanation, cite a few more of your main skills or achievements , possibly as bullet points.

• Leading a team of three newly graduated photographers to shoot a week-long wedding celebration in Bali

5. Call to action

Finally, request an interview for the position. Consider briefly restating your ability to generate compelling images. To end your cover letter, use a simple closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and then your name.

Photographer Cover Letter Tips

1. highlight your varied skill set.

As part of your letter’s body text, add a short list of bullet points to show your expertise in key work areas such as image editing, technical troubleshooting, or cross-team collaboration. This is a great way to emphasize you have the well-rounded skill set required by many photographer jobs.

2. Point to your overlapping experience

Based on the job posting, have you worked in similar media, subject matter, or photography styles? Feature that related work on your cover letter so the hiring manager sees you’d be a great fit.

As a creative and passionate individual with specific expertise in capturing images of babies and children, the chance to work for an industry leader like Mom365 is irresistible to me. My latest achievements show I have the technical and soft skills to fit perfectly into your organization.

3. Focus on client relations

Many photographer jobs require you to work closely with clients. When applying to a customer-facing position, give one or two examples of your related success to show you have the communication skills and emotional intelligence the role requires.

Photographer Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most important part of a cover letter -.

Any explanation you give for why this photography job or employer interests you. These details distinguish the cover letter from your resume and other application materials and can help you get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) . They also set up a good interview discussion about how you fit the role and/or the organization’s work culture.

Do hiring managers read cover letters? -

Some don’t, but many do. And all hiring managers seek fast ways to reduce a large pile of applications to just a few promising candidates. One common way they do this is by focusing on applications that include cover letter and then on cover letters that speak to their hiring needs. Send a custom cover letter with your resume, and you can be confident you’d make that select group.

Should I say “My name is…” on a cover letter? -

No. As long as your name appears in the letter’s closing section, you don’t need to state it otherwise.

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Photographer Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout photographer cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Are you looking to break into the creative and exciting world of photography? A great cover letter is the perfect way to showcase your skills and convince employers that you're the right fit for the job. Our Photographer Cover Letter Guide will provide you with everything you need to know to create a compelling cover letter and secure the job you want.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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Photographer Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the position of Photographer at [Company Name]. I have a deep passion for photography and I believe I have the necessary skills and experience to be an excellent addition to your team.

I have been a professional photographer for over six years and have had the pleasure of working with a wide variety of clients on a range of projects. I have a well-rounded knowledge of the field, both in terms of technical ability and in terms of creative insight. I am confident that I can bring a great deal of enthusiasm and skill to your team.

I have an extensive portfolio of work that demonstrates my commitment to quality and my ability to capture unique and compelling images. I am experienced in shooting in a variety of settings, from outdoor locations to studio environments. I am also adept at using a range of digital and analog equipment and familiar with the latest post-production software.

I am an excellent communicator and have the ability to work well with clients. I am able to take direction and am comfortable working in a collaborative environment. I am also very organized and have the ability to manage multiple projects at once.

I am confident that I can provide the skills and experience necessary to contribute to the success of your organization. I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and I am happy to provide any additional information that you may require. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Photographer Cover Letter?

• A Photographer cover letter is an important tool to help you stand out from other applicants and make a good impression on potential employers.
• It allows you to showcase your skills and experience related to photography, and highlight any unique qualifications that make you stand out from other photographers.
• Writing a cover letter also gives you an opportunity to explain why you are passionate about photography and why you believe you are the right fit for the job.
• Having a well-crafted cover letter can help make sure you are taken seriously and given serious consideration for the job.
• It also helps you to demonstrate your personality and enthusiasm, which can give employers a better understanding of your character and make you stand out from other applicants.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page
• Address the cover letter to the specific individual who will be reading it
• Start your cover letter with a strong opening paragraph that explains who you are and why you are writing
• Explain the skills and experience that you have that make you a great fit for the job
• Include relevant examples of your work and accomplishments
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and the company
• End your cover letter with a call to action
• Proofread your cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors

What's The Best Structure For Photographer Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Photographer resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Photographer cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Photographer Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to apply for the position of Photographer at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board Name]. With my creativity, technical skills, and passion for capturing beautiful images, I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to your team.

I have five years of professional photography experience, specializing in portraiture and event photography. During this time, I have developed a strong understanding of the industry, as well as a keen eye for detail. I am comfortable working with a variety of cameras and lighting equipment, and I am highly proficient in post-production software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

I am also a highly organized and reliable professional. I have a deep understanding of the importance of deadlines and I always ensure that all projects are completed on time and to the highest standards. I am also an excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing. I am able to work well with clients and colleagues, and I am passionate about collaborating on creative projects.

I am excited at the prospect of joining your team and helping to create beautiful, lasting images for your clients. I believe that my experience, technical skills and creative flair would be an asset to your team. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in further detail.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Photographer Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Failing to include contact information
• Leaving out a professional greeting
• Using overly casual language
• Not addressing the letter to a specific person
• Including irrelevant information
• Making statements that are too vague or boastful
• Not customizing the letter to the position
• Using an unprofessional email address
• Making spelling and grammar mistakes
• Including a generic objective statement
• Not providing enough details about your skills and experience

Key Takeaways For a Photographer Cover Letter

• Highlight relevant experience and skills in photography and other creative disciplines.
• Emphasize your knowledge of latest trends in photography and digital media.
• Demonstrate a commitment to quality and creative excellence in your work.
• Describe the type of photographic assignments you've been involved in.
• Showcase your professional accomplishments in the photography field.
• Express enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the organization.
• Include contact information and make sure the cover letter is professional and error-free.