Freelance photographer is a term used to describe a photographer who works for themselves, rather than being employed by a company. The word 'freelance' is spelled /ˈfriːlæns/, with emphasis on the second syllable. 'Photographer' is spelled /fəˈtɑːɡrəfər/, with emphasis on the third syllable. The word 'photographer' originates from the Greek words 'phos', meaning light, and 'graphein', meaning to write. In combination, these two words mean 'to write with light', which is a fitting description of a photographer's job.
A freelance photographer can be defined as an individual who works independently and is not employed by a specific company or organization, but rather offers their services on a project-by-project basis. They are professionals in the field of photography and use their skills, creativity, and expertise to capture images for various clients.
Unlike a staff photographer who is employed by a particular company or media outlet, a freelance photographer operates as a self-employed entrepreneur. They have the freedom to choose the assignments they accept, negotiate the terms of their work, and set their own prices and schedules.
Freelance photographers often specialize in specific areas of photography such as weddings, portraits, fashion, sports, nature, or events, among others. They may work on-location or in a studio, using various cameras, lenses, and equipment to capture high-quality images.
To succeed as a freelance photographer, one must possess technical skills in photography techniques, editing software, and lighting. They must also be proficient in marketing their services, as they are responsible for finding clients and securing contracts independently. It is essential for freelance photographers to continuously update their portfolio and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in photography.
Overall, a freelance photographer’s main objective is to provide clients with visually stunning and impactful photographs that meet their specific needs and requirements.
The word "freelance" originated in the early 19th century and is composed of two parts: "free" and "lance". "Free" comes from the Old English word "freo" meaning "exempt from" or "not a slave", while "lance" refers to a type of soldier or warrior, particularly one employed for hire. The term "freelance" was originally used to describe medieval mercenaries who were not bound to any particular lord or ruler, and instead offered their services to the highest bidder.
The word "photographer" emerged in the mid-19th century and is derived from two Greek roots. "Photo" comes from the Greek word "phos" meaning "light", and "graph" originates from "graphein", which translates to "to draw" or "to write".