Hello all. I have learned so much from this community in terms of taking better pictures. I was looking through the local classified ads when I came across an job ad for "Experienced Sports Photographers". They are looking for a resume and some prints.
All of my job history has been in manufacturing with nothing to do with photography. Photography has just always been a hobby. I have taken pictures of all of my sons sports games, taken pictures for the local high school's football program (free of charge), etc.
So my question to you guys and gals, is how do you put a resume together for a job ad that is asking for "experienced" sports photographers when you have no true "professional" photography experience?
Everyone has to get over this hump eventually, from the realm of hobbyist to a pro. There are plenty of hobbyists who take shots deserving of a pro, and lots of pros taking shots that a hobbyist would be ashamed of. Take enough photos in your free time for no pay until, when showing your portfolio, you don't have to add a disclaimer of "I'm just a n00b" each time. You do need those initial shots, though. It's hard to have faith in someone who says they're good but can't prove it.
is this a job as in: you shoot the job and then invoice it
or is it as in: you go and clock hours and work for a number of years?
you might just want to call and get some details about the job. maybe your skills cover it. then you can throw a resume together, maybe make some prints (if they fit the bill), and go from there
imho, resume may equate to portfolio, or it may not. If they are more concerned with getting the shots then certainly your portfolio will go a long way in determining if you meet their qualifications. If, on the other hand, they are seeking someone who has dealt with deadlines, captioning, transmitting, as well as getting the shots, then further discussion with the employer would be needed. I am more inclined to agree with nathan on this.
btw, are you looking to change careers? I would definitely be honest with them about your experience. You may be exactly what they're looking for or you may need to continue to work toward it. Just don't get discouraged if you're not what they're looking for right now. Keep shooting and keep learning.
I recommend you purchase a book: "One Minute and You're Hired"
Or it may be "60 Seconds and You're Hired"
It tutors you very successfully in facing the interview. It will also help you in putting together a resumé in that when you know how the interview might go, you know what to put in, or leave out, of a resume.
Also, go to the library and look at some good books on resumé writing unless you think an investment in having it professionally written might be worth your money, and you can afford it.
You don't. They're looking for experienced sports photographers. "Experienced" obviously varies according to industry, but I would imagine their preference is someone who has shot for several years in college or pro sports. But then again, I don't know what is "local classifieds." Just guessing that placing an ad in local classifieds means you might have some wiggle room if not many people respond or if they are impressed by your work despite your lack of experience. It's going to be very hard to write a memorable resume for this position when you have no prior job experience or references in the field.
