Photographer
Some people combine their love of art and museums to become museum employees. There are a wide variety of museums across the country. Some showcase artwork, such as paintings, sculpture, or photographs. Others house objects of historical value, such as antique clothing or furniture. Still others display items related to science or natural history, such as dinosaur skeletons. People who work in museums may have several different types of jobs. A curator chooses and obtains the objects that will be displayed in the museum. An assistant curator helps the curator set up the museum exhibits. A conservator cares for and preserves the objects kept in the museum. A tour guide provides information about exhibits to the museum’s visitors and answers their questions.
Photographers are skilled artists who use their cameras to create artwork. Their work varies greatly depending on what type of photographs they take. For example, a catalog photographer works in a studio and takes pictures of objects such as food, clothing, or jewelry. A newspaper or magazine photographer works in the field, taking pictures of people and events in the news.
The degree of education required for a museum worker varies depending on the type of work. Most museum workers, however, are highly educated. Many have advanced college degrees and are considered experts in their field.
CAREER SPOTLIGHTS
Museum Curator
The work of photographers involves more than just taking the pictures. Photographers must first visualize the shot or set it up in an artistic way. After the pictures are taken, many photographers develop their own film in a darkroom. Then they print the slides or photographs. A career as a photographer requires formal training in photography. Many photographers have a college degree in art. Photographers who specialize in certain areas, such as science, may need additional courses in that field. Beginning photographers sometimes receive training on the job by assisting a professional photographer.
Career Spotlights
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