Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Press Photographers – 2025

Preparing for a press photographer job interview? Here are some essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your technical skills, creative eye, and ability to capture compelling images in high-pressure situations. Whether you're applying for a role as a photojournalist, event photographer, or news photographer, these questions will cover all key areas of your job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about your experience as a press photographer.
  As a press photographer, I have worked with various media outlets and covered a wide range of events and stories. I have experience working under tight deadlines, capturing important moments, and delivering high-quality images that tell a story.
• 2. What motivates you to work as a press photographer?
  I am passionate about storytelling through images and capturing moments that have an impact on people's lives. Working as a press photographer allows me to combine my love for photography with a sense of purpose and responsibility.
• 3. How do you handle difficult or sensitive situations while on the job?
  I understand that as a press photographer, I am often in challenging environments and may encounter sensitive situations. In these cases, I prioritize respect, empathy, and professionalism. I am always mindful of people's privacy and boundaries, and I communicate clearly with my subjects to ensure their comfort and consent.
• 4. How do you stay updated on current events and trends in the industry?
  I regularly follow news outlets and social media, as well as attend workshops and conferences. I also network with other press photographers to exchange ideas and stay updated on industry trends and techniques.
• 5. How do you handle criticism or feedback on your work?
  I see criticism or feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I am always open to constructive criticism and take the time to reflect on it and make necessary changes to my work. I believe that receiving feedback is essential in any creative field.
• 6. Can you explain your process for selecting and editing images?
  When selecting images, I look for ones that tell a story and have a strong composition. I also consider the end use of the images, whether it be for print or online. When editing, I prioritize maintaining the integrity of the image while also enhancing its visual impact.
• 7. How do you handle working with strict deadlines?
  I am used to working with tight deadlines as a press photographer. Planning, organization, and being efficient with my time are key in meeting these deadlines. I also communicate effectively with my clients to ensure that we are on the same page about expectations and timelines.
• 8. How do you handle unexpected equipment malfunctions on the job?
  I always come prepared with backup equipment and supplies in case of any malfunctions. In the rare event that all my equipment fails, I am able to think quickly and creatively to find alternative solutions, whether it be borrowing equipment from another photographer or using a different shooting technique.
• 9. How do you handle difficult lighting situations during a shoot?
  I am proficient in using different lighting techniques and equipment, such as reflectors and flashes, to create the desired lighting for a shoot. I also pay close attention to the available natural lighting and adjust accordingly to capture the best possible images.
• 10. Can you walk me through your workflow for a typical assignment?
  Before an assignment, I research and plan accordingly, making sure I have all the necessary equipment and permits. On the day of the assignment, I arrive early to scout the location and set up my equipment. During the event, I continuously take and review images, making necessary adjustments. Afterward, I quickly edit and deliver the images by the agreed deadline.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Tell me about a time when you had to work under extreme time pressure.
  During a high-profile event, I was given a last-minute request to capture specific moments for a breaking news story. Despite the time pressure, I was able to stay calm and organized, capturing the required shots and delivering them within the deadline.
• 12. Describe a challenging assignment you worked on and how you overcame it.
  I was tasked with capturing images during a natural disaster, where communications and transportation were severely affected. Despite these challenges, I was able to adapt and find alternative methods to get the necessary images, ensuring that the story was adequately covered.
• 13. Share a time where you had to collaborate with a team on a project.
  I worked with a team of journalists and photographers on a long-term investigative piece. We had to coordinate our efforts and ensure that we were all on the same page, despite different schedules and styles. Through effective communication and mutual respect, we were able to deliver a powerful story with compelling images.
• 14. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements in the workplace?
  I believe in open and respectful communication when resolving conflicts. I also prioritize finding a mutually beneficial solution and understanding the other person's perspective. I believe that a collaborative approach is key in diffusing tensions and maintaining a positive work environment.
• 15. Describe a time where you had to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  During a busy event season, I was working on several assignments at once with strict deadlines. I created a detailed schedule and effectively communicated with my clients to ensure that all projects were completed on time without compromising on quality.

Technical Questions

• 16. Can you explain the differences between shooting in RAW vs. JPEG?
  RAW files contain all the data captured by the camera's sensor, allowing for more flexibility in editing. JPEG files, on the other hand, are compressed and may result in loss of quality. RAW files are preferred for professional photography.
• 17. What camera equipment do you use for press photography?
  I use a full-frame DSLR camera with a variety of lenses, including a standard zoom, telephoto, and wide-angle. I also carry backup batteries, memory cards, and a tripod for longer events.
• 18. How do you ensure your images are legally and ethically sound?
  I always obtain proper permits and permissions before capturing images and follow ethical guidelines for photojournalism. I also clearly communicate with my subjects and respect their privacy and boundaries.
• 19. Can you explain the basic principles of composition in photography?
  The basic principles of composition include rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and balance. These techniques help create visually appealing images with strong focal points and depth.
• 20. Can you discuss the process of printing and delivering images to a client?
  I work with professional printing labs and ensure that the images are printed in the desired size and medium. I also use high-quality paper and inks to maintain the integrity of the images. Once printed, I package the images securely and deliver them either in person or through a trusted courier service. I also provide digital copies of the images in the requested format.