Photographers tend to specialise in one particular area of photography such as press and photojournalism, fashion or scientific and medical photography. Their work typically entails:

• setting up photographic equipment
• taking pictures
• editing and retouching images
• choosing and setting up locations
• reproducing and framing photographs
• promoting their business (especially if self-employed)
• researching and making contacts
• general administration.

The majority of their work is undertaken 'on location', so travel and irregular working hours are common features of the job.