The term “art photographer” can refer to a variety of photographers, but in general, such a professional will take photographs and sell them to others for personal or commercial use. Unlike some other photographers, an art photographer is more concerned with the artistic expression of a photograph than with its practical applications. Customers who purchase such photographs can use them to decorate their homes or offices, use them on a calendar or poster, or even display them in a museum or art shop. Many photographers combine such images with other types of images to create a more diverse portfolio.
Since the introduction of digital photography and computer-based photo editing software, the art photographer has had far more control over the presentation of a photograph. To create new types of art, the photo can be manipulated or completely altered in a computer program, or the art photographer can focus on creating artistic images without the use of digital enhancements. The photographer’s main goal, in either case, is to create an image that can be appreciated for its beauty, uniqueness, quirkiness, or even societal value. After all, art can be a reflection of society and human behavior, so art photography can be interpreted in a variety of ways the viewer.
The ways in which an art photographer presents and sells his or her work can vary. Some professionals choose to work on a freelance basis, establishing their own company to serve a variety of clients. Others may open an art studio in which they exhibit only their own work or the work of others. Others may work for a specific media outlet, such as a magazine or website, creating images tailored to a specific audience for that publication.
Of course, some artists may choose to use their images for consumer products such as calendars, posters, mouse pads, computer desktop backgrounds, or even book covers rather than attempting to sell their work in museums or art stores. The line between commercial and art photography, which includes photos taken for profit or to be sold, is often blurred, so a skilled photographer may combine the two. A well-rounded art photographer will frequently create images for a variety of purposes, ranging from artistic to commercial to editorial. Wedding photographers, prom photographers, and other event photographers can take artistic photos at weddings, proms, and other events.