One type of job that has been affected by the pandemic is the online photo editing job. Before you ask what this job is, a photo editor’s tasks include coordinating and providing assignments to photographers in the field, image editing, and providing their clients with photos with enhanced graphics. Whew, what a mouthful.
So no, it’s not just someone doing photo editing and design in Adobe Photoshop. Oh no, a photo editor’s job is similar to that of an editor for a newspaper or magazine. Part of their job is to ensure that photographs are edited properly and suit the needs of their clients. They serve a vital role in businesses that rely on plenty of images for marketing purposes.
You can earn roughly 25,000 PHP to 60,000 PHP as an online photo editor, depending on your skill level.
And because of the pandemic and the uncertainty of physical meetings, office-based photo editors are now shifting to a work-from-home setup. Here are 7 essentials skills to become in-demand as an online photo editor.
Creativity
It all starts with creativity. Photography is heavily influenced by art. And your creativity connects your client’s ideas to the digital image.
What will be the best way to convey the photo? Can it be used with the current campaigns in mind? Is it consistent with the branding?
Your ability to be creative shines when you can implement edits that reflect beautiful images in line with your client’s messaging
Photography Basics
As a sought-after photo editor, it’s crucial to know the photography basics. You will receive raw footage, and it’s your responsibility to bring out the best in each one.
You should master photography concepts like the rule of thirds and exposure. It helps you create pleasing images with proper proportions and colour.
After which, you can break them, depending on what emotion your client wants to invoke in its audience.
Photo Editing Skills
Sometimes, simple cropping and exposure adjustments won’t fit. You should have deeper photo editing skills to manipulate images to what your client desires.
It can include colour correction, image manipulation, layer masking, and more. You should be adept at using Photo editing tools like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Illustrator.
With this, your creativity is just your limit.
Curation
Your clients have certain themes that they follow for their social media accounts and postings. You should have the curation skills to match that brand image.
Out of all the images, which ones are the best fit? And with your photo editing skills, you can also match their colour schemes and vibe for that consistent message they want to convey.
Time Management
Connected to my previous skill is this one. Work from home means little to no supervision, and with so many distractions, such as social media, you can lose track of time. If you’re like me, who’s easily distracted, 8 hours won’t be enough for your work.
To avoid wasting your time, develop a schedule in mind and stick with it. For example, when starting your shift, look at your tasks for that day. Decide then on how long you’re going to spend on each one. Once you’ve accomplished this, stick with it and develop a habit from it. That way, you can ground yourself to a semblance of your old office setup. If it’s your first time working, it’ll give you a glimpse of working in an office.
Good Communication Skills
Yeah, I know, I know. Saying this is already common sense. But good communication skills are even more vital now that you can’t physically meet both your clients and team members. Internet issues, unfamiliarity with new social media platforms, and conflicting schedules are just some of the problems that you’ll be facing in this new kind of work setup.
To minimize any communication problems, plan and schedule meetings ahead of time and ensure that you and your team and clients have each other’s contact information. When conversing with your team or client, make sure to speak clearly and concisely so that you’re easily understood. Don’t forget to also listen attentively to what they’ll be saying in return to ensure you’re both on the same page.
Adaptability
Definitely, one of the vital skills you’ll need for your online photo editing job. There will be changes in what works and not. Some of the rules in photography can be broken when new trends come in.
You should be adaptable to these changes.
Join groups and discussions within your photography niche. Better yet, follow thought leaders that can elevate your skills further. In this way, you will stay relevant in your field for the days to come.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the skills you will need to become an in-demand online photo editor. Do you have what it takes? Here are some opportunities that you might be interested in this field. Cheers!
