Log InSign Up

19 Photojournalist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various photojournalist interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

Photojournalist Resume ExampleUse this template

or download as PDF

Common Photojournalist Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in photojournalism?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they may be interested in knowing what motivated the photojournalist to choose this career path. Second, they may want to know what the photojournalist finds most inspiring about photojournalism. Finally, the interviewer may be looking for insights into the photojournalist's creative process. By asking this question, the interviewer can get a better sense of the photojournalist's passion for their work and their commitment to telling stories through their images.

Example: “I have always been interested in photography and telling stories through images. When I was younger, I used to love looking through old family photo albums and hearing the stories behind the pictures. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in photojournalism so that I could tell stories and capture moments that would otherwise be forgotten.

I studied photography in college and interned at a local newspaper. After graduation, I worked as a freelance photographer for a few years before landing a job as a staff photographer at a daily newspaper. I absolutely love my job and feel so lucky to be able to do what I love for a living.”

What do you think are the key skills necessary for success in this field?

There are many different key skills necessary for success in the field of photojournalism, but some of the most important skills include the ability to take high-quality photos, the ability to edit photos, and the ability to tell a story through photos. It is important for interviewers to ask this question because it allows them to get a better understanding of the applicant's qualifications and whether or not they would be a good fit for the position.

Example: “Some key skills that are necessary for success in the field of photojournalism are:

-The ability to take high-quality photos that tell a story or capture a moment.
-The ability to edit photos and choose the best ones to tell the story you want to tell.
-The ability to work quickly and efficiently under pressure.
-The ability to communicate with people from all walks of life.
-The ability to research and find stories that are worth telling.”

How would you describe your approach to photography?

An interviewer might ask a photojournalist how they approach photography because it can give insight into their creative process and the way they work. It can also help the interviewer understand the photojournalist's philosophy on photography and how they approach telling stories through their images.

Example: “I believe that photography is all about capturing a moment in time that can tell a story. Whether it is a portrait of someone, a landscape, or even just a snapshot of everyday life, I strive to create images that are interesting and visually appealing. I am always looking for new ways to approach my photography, and I am constantly experimenting with different techniques and styles.”

What do you think sets photojournalism apart from other genres of photography?

There are a few key things that set photojournalism apart from other genres of photography. The first is that photojournalists are typically trying to capture events or stories as they unfold, rather than posed or staged scenes. This means that they have to be quick on their feet and be able to think on their feet to get the best possible shot.

Another key difference is that photojournalists often have to work in difficult or dangerous situations. They might have to go into war zones or areas affected by natural disasters, for example. This means that they need to be brave and have a strong sense of commitment to their work.

Finally, photojournalists typically have to be able to edit and process their own photos. This means that they need to have a good eye for detail and be able to use editing software to improve their photos.

Example: “Photojournalism is a genre of photography that covers newsworthy events and stories. It is typically characterized by its use of candid, spontaneous, and often times, unposed images. This genre of photography often captures moments of human emotion and can be used to tell stories about the world around us.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges faced by photojournalists today?

The interviewer is trying to gauge the photojournalist's understanding of the field and the challenges it faces. It is important to know the challenges faced by photojournalists because it can help them be more prepared and aware of the obstacles they may face.

Example: “The biggest challenge faced by photojournalists today is the need to constantly adapt to new technology. With the advent of digital cameras and editing software, the way photos are taken and edited has changed dramatically in recent years. Photojournalists must be able to keep up with these changes in order to stay relevant and competitive. Additionally, they must be able to use this new technology to their advantage, using it to create better and more interesting photos.”

How do you think the role of photojournalism is changing in the digital age?

In the digital age, photojournalism is changing in several ways. First, the ubiquity of digital cameras and camera phones means that anyone can be a photojournalist. Second, the ease of sharing photos online means that photojournalists can reach a global audience instantly. Third, the rise of social media means that photojournalists can interact with their audience directly and get instant feedback. Finally, the increasing popularity of video means that photojournalists must be able to tell stories using both still and moving images.

The changing role of photojournalism is important because it is a reflection of the changing media landscape. As traditional news outlets decline in popularity, photojournalists must adapt to survive. The changing role of photojournalism is also important because it allows photojournalists to reach a wider audience and have a greater impact on the world.

Example: “The role of photojournalism is changing in the digital age as the technology used to create and distribute images is evolving. Photojournalists are now able to use a variety of digital tools to capture, edit and share their images with a wider audience than ever before. This has led to a rise in the popularity of photojournalism as a form of communication and storytelling.

While some traditional print media outlets are struggling to adapt to the digital age, others are embracing it and using it to their advantage. Many news organisations now have online platforms where they showcase the work of their photojournalists. This allows them to reach a global audience and gives them the opportunity to tell stories that might not otherwise be told.

The rise of social media has also had an impact on the role of photojournalism. Photojournalists can now use platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat to share their images with a wider audience. This instant sharing of images has led to a new form of photojournalism known as citizen journalism, where everyday people document events and share them online.

Overall, the digital age has had a positive impact on photojournalism. The ability to reach a global audience and instantaneously share images has made it an increasingly popular form of communication.”

What do you think is the most important thing for a photojournalist to remember?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a photojournalist. First, it allows the interviewer to gauge the photojournalist's level of experience and knowledge. Second, it allows the interviewer to see how the photojournalist thinks about the role of a photojournalist. Finally, it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the photojournalist's values and priorities.

Example: “There are a few things that are important for a photojournalist to remember. First, it is important to be impartial and objective when documenting events. This means avoiding any sort of personal bias or opinion in your work. Second, it is important to be accurate in your reporting. This means verifying information and being mindful of the context in which photos are taken. Lastly, it is important to be respectful when taking photos of people and events. This means being considerate of people's privacy and not causing any undue distress.”

What do you think is the best way to learn more about photojournalism?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they could be trying to gauge your level of experience and knowledge in the field. Second, they may be interested in your thoughts on the best way to learn more about photojournalism so that they can better understand the field themselves. Third, they could be considering hiring you as a photojournalist and want to know how you would approach the job.

It is important for interviewers to ask questions like this because it allows them to get a better sense of who the person is that they are interviewing. It also allows them to see how the person thinks about the field of photojournalism and whether or not they would be a good fit for the position.

Example: “There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to learn more about photojournalism will vary depending on your individual learning style and preferences. However, some suggestions for ways to learn more about photojournalism include studying the work of established photojournalists, attending workshops and seminars offered by professional organizations, and practicing your skills regularly. Additionally, keeping up with industry news and developments by reading trade publications or following relevant blogs and social media accounts can help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in photojournalism.”

What are your thoughts on the current state of the photojournalism industry?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer would ask this question to a photojournalist. First, the interviewer wants to know if the photojournalist is aware of the current state of the industry and how it is changing. This is important because the interviewer wants to know if the photojournalist is able to adapt to change and continue to produce high quality work. Second, the interviewer wants to know the photojournalist's thoughts on the current state of the industry in order to gauge their level of experience and expertise. This is important because it will help the interviewer determine if the photojournalist is a good fit for the position.

Example: “The current state of the photojournalism industry is one of flux. With the advent of digital technology, many traditional print outlets for photojournalism have closed or are struggling to stay afloat. This has created opportunities for new online outlets, but has also meant that there is less money available for photographers. In addition, the rise of social media has changed the way that people consume news, and has made it easier for anyone to be a "citizen journalist." While this has democratized the field to some extent, it has also made it harder for professional photojournalists to make a living.”

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing photographers today?

Photojournalists face a number of challenges in today's media landscape. With the rise of digital media, there is more competition for attention and eyeballs. Photojournalists also have to be increasingly careful about the way they present their work, as images can be easily manipulated and taken out of context. Additionally, the 24-hour news cycle means that there is constant pressure to produce new and interesting content.

Example: “There are a number of challenges facing photographers today, ranging from technological advancements to the way in which the industry is changing. One of the biggest challenges is the increasing popularity of digital photography. This has led to a decline in the demand for traditional film-based photography, as well as a decrease in the prices that photographers can charge for their work. In addition, digital photography has made it easier for people to take their own photos, which has further reduced the demand for professional photographers.

Another challenge facing photographers is the way in which the industry is changing. In the past, most photographers worked freelance, selling their photos to magazines or newspapers. However, with the rise of social media, many people are now sharing their photos online for free. This has made it harder for photographers to make a living from their work.

Finally, another challenge that photographers face is that there are now more ways than ever before for people to view photos. In addition to traditional print media, photos can now be viewed on computers, smartphones and tablets. This means that there is more competition than ever before for people's attention when they are looking at photos.”

How do you think technology is changing the field of photography?

As technology advances, the field of photography is constantly changing. Photojournalists must be able to adapt to new technologies in order to stay ahead of the curve. By understanding how technology is changing the field of photography, photojournalists can be better prepared to take advantage of new opportunities and produce high-quality work.

Example: “The field of photography is changing rapidly due to advances in technology. Digital cameras and smartphones have made it easier than ever for people to take and share photos. Social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat have also changed the way people consume photos.

Professional photographers are now using more sophisticated equipment to capture images, such as drones and 360-degree cameras. They are also using editing software to create unique and eye-catching images. As a result, the demand for professional photographers is increasing.”

What do you think is the most important thing for a photographer to remember?

An interviewer would ask this question to a photojournalist to gauge their understanding of the responsibility that comes with the role. As a photojournalist, it is important to remember that you are documenting real life events and telling a story that is true and accurate. It is your responsibility to ensure that the images you capture are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also convey the reality of the situation.

Example: “There are a few things that are important for a photographer to remember, but one of the most important is to always be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of what is happening in front of you and behind you, as well as to the sides. It also means being aware of any potential hazards that could impact your safety or the safety of your subjects. Another important thing for photographers to remember is to always be respectful of their subjects. This means not only respecting their privacy, but also their personal space. If someone does not want their picture taken, it is important to respect their wishes and not take their photo without permission.”

What do you think is the best way to learn more about photography?

There are many ways to learn more about photography, and the best way depends on the individual. Some people learn best by taking classes, while others prefer to read books or articles, or to experiment on their own. The important thing is that the photographer is constantly learning and improving their skills.

Example: “There is no one answer to this question as everyone has different learning styles and preferences. However, some ways to learn more about photography include studying the work of other photographers, taking classes or workshops, practicing regularly, and experimenting with different techniques. Additionally, keeping up with industry news and developments can help you stay current on new trends and technologies.”

How did you first get interested in photography?

An interviewer might ask "How did you first get interested in photography?" to a photojournalist in order to better understand the photojournalist's motivations and reasons for pursuing a career in photography. It is important to know the photojournalist's backstory in order to understand the photojournalist's approach to their work.

Example: “I first got interested in photography when I was a teenager. I was always fascinated by the way pictures could capture a moment in time and tell a story. I started taking pictures with my father's camera and developed a passion for it. After high school, I studied photography at the college level and eventually became a professional photojournalist.”

How has your photography evolved over the years?

An interviewer might ask "How has your photography evolved over the years?" to a photojournalist to learn about the photojournalist's creative process and how their approach to photography has changed over time. This question is important because it can give the interviewer insight into the photojournalist's creative process and how they have developed their skills over the years.

Example: “My photography has evolved significantly over the years. When I first started out, I was mostly shooting landscapes and nature scenes. However, as I've developed my skills and gained more experience, I've started to branch out into other genres, such as portraiture, street photography, and photojournalism. I've also started to experiment more with different techniques, such as long exposures and light painting.”

What are some of your favorite subjects to photograph?

Photojournalists are typically assigned to cover a wide variety of events and subjects, so it is important for the interviewer to know what kinds of subjects the photojournalist is most interested in. This will help the interviewer determine whether or not the photojournalist is a good fit for the assignment. Additionally, knowing the photojournalist's favorite subjects to photograph will give the interviewer a better understanding of the photojournalist's style and approach.

Example: “I love photographing people in candid moments, as well as landscapes and cityscapes. I also enjoy taking portraits and action shots.”

How do you approach each new project?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask a photojournalist how they approach each new project. One reason could be to gauge the photojournalist's level of preparedness and professionalism. It is important for a photojournalist to be able to approach each new project with a clear plan and vision in mind. Another reason the interviewer might ask this question could be to get a sense of the photojournalist's creative process. It is important for a photojournalist to be able to be creative and think outside the box in order to get the best results.

Example: “I approach each new project with a great deal of excitement and anticipation. I can't wait to see what I will be able to capture and how the final product will turn out. I am always looking for new and interesting subjects to photograph, so each new project is an opportunity to explore something new.”

How do you think about composition when taking photos?

Composition is important to a photojournalist because it can help tell the story that the photo is trying to convey. By carefully composing a photo, a photojournalist can make sure that the viewer sees what is important in the photo and that the photo is visually appealing.

Example: “There are a few things to consider when thinking about composition in photography. The first is the rule of thirds, which is the idea that an image should be divided into thirds both horizontally and vertically, with the subject placed on one of the intersecting lines. This creates a more balanced and pleasing composition. Another thing to consider is leading lines, which are lines that lead the eye into the photo and toward the subject. These can be created by roads, fences, or other objects in the scene. Finally, negative space can be used to create a sense of balance and calm in an image. This is the empty space around the subject, and using it effectively can make for a very powerful composition.”

What challenges do you encounter when photographing people?

There are many challenges that photojournalists can face when photographing people. For example, they may have to deal with people who are reluctant to have their photo taken, or who are uncomfortable in front of the camera. They may also have to deal with challenging environments, such as low-light conditions or crowded areas. It is important for photojournalists to be able to overcome these challenges in order to get the best possible photos.

Example: “There are a few challenges that I encounter when photographing people. The first challenge is getting people to feel comfortable in front of the camera. A lot of people are self-conscious and don't want their picture taken. I have to be able to make them feel comfortable so that I can get natural expressions and poses.

Another challenge is getting people to cooperate. Sometimes people don't want to do what I ask or they start doing their own thing. I have to be able to direct them and keep them on track so that I can get the shots that I need.

The last challenge is dealing with different personalities. Some people are easy to work with and others are more difficult. I have to be able to adjust my approach depending on the person so that I can get the best results.”