You’ve just sent the same cover letter to 60 different job roles, all beginning with “Dear Sir or Madam” and ending with 'Yours sincerely.'
Bad news: you may have just missed your chance to stand out, as generic cover letters are a very common pitfall in job applications.
Did you know recruiters typically shortlist candidates based on how well they meet the job criteria? Failing to address the key requirements can cost you the role.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to tailor your cover letter to align with the job advert or company, ensuring you showcase your value as a candidate.
Cover letter examples for photographer
Explore additional photographer cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.
By Experience
Assistant Photographer
- Relevant Experience: Highlighting extensive experience as a Studio Administrator and Design Coordinator, showing the ability to handle multiple projects efficiently and lead teams successfully.
- Technical Expertise: Emphasising proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and project management, crucial for roles in design and photography environments.
- Achievements and Impact: Showcasing specific achievements like the implementation of a project management system and cost reduction initiatives, demonstrating tangible results and positive contributions to previous organisations.
- Professional Certification: Including the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification underscores commitment to professional development and adds credibility in project management capabilities.
Senior Photographer
- Highlighting specific achievements such as a 25% increase in campaign engagement and a 30% increase in viewership through visual narratives, showcasing the applicant's effectiveness in delivering tangible business results.
- Emphasising proficiency in industry-standard tools like Adobe Suite and key skills such as visual storytelling and strategic communication, reinforcing the applicant's technical expertise and creative abilities.
- Detailing leadership experience in managing high-budget projects and fostering creativity within teams, demonstrating the candidate's ability to lead effectively and drive innovation.
- Mentioning relevant education and professional development courses that align with the role, such as a Master’s in Media & Communications and certifications in photography and marketing strategies, which validate the applicant's academic and professional foundation.
Head Photographer
- The cover letter effectively showcases a wealth of experience in photography management, specifically highlighting proven results such as a 50% increase in client satisfaction and audience engagement, which are essential for senior roles in visual storytelling.
- It strategically emphasises expertise in media rights, a critical skill for protecting assets and reducing licensing disputes, which is crucial for high-level photography management positions.
- This cover letter highlights leadership abilities with accomplishments like enhancing workflow efficiency by 30% and managing a diverse team, aligning with the responsibilities expected of a Head of Photography.
- By expressing passions such as LGBTQ+ advocacy through visual storytelling, the cover letter aligns personal values with professional skills, making it compelling for organisations focused on inclusivity and social impact.
By Role
Wedding Photographer
- Relevant Experience: Ella has over 3 years of experience in wedding and event photography, showcased through roles of increasing responsibility that highlight her skills in managing significant projects and high-profile events.
- Skills and Certifications: The cover letter appropriately highlights Ella's advanced DSLR skills and certifications obtained from reputable institutions, establishing her credibility as a highly skilled photographer.
- Achievements and Impact: Demonstrating concrete achievements, such as increasing company revenue by 15% and enhancing client satisfaction, effectively substantiates Ella's professional impact and success in her previous roles.
- Client-Centric Approach: Emphasising client communication skills and package customisation points to Ella's ability to tailor services to client needs, an essential aspect for building and maintaining client satisfaction and loyalty in photography.
Fashion Photographer
- Emphasising Relevant Experience: Highlight significant achievements with specific numbers, such as a 25% increase in online sales growth and a boost in social media engagement by 30%.
- Showcasing Leadership Skills: Mention leadership experience like leading a team of volunteer photographers, which not only impacts team productivity but also volunteer satisfaction and retention.
- Demonstrating Impact: Describe how past roles have made a positive impact, such as increasing donations by 15% through effective visual storytelling.
- Aligning Skills with Objectives: Link skills in photography and visual storytelling directly to the mission of the organisation, emphasising a passion for supporting life-saving research.
Sports Photographer
- Highlight Relevant Experience: The cover letter effectively showcases Rosie's extensive experience in sports photography, detailing her success in capturing high-quality action shots and managing event logistics.
- Emphasise Client Satisfaction: A significant aspect of the cover letter is the focus on client satisfaction, showcasing a 95% satisfaction rate and repeat business engagement.
- Showcase Leadership and Mentoring Skills: It is important to mention how Rosie has trained junior photographers and increased team productivity, establishing her leadership and mentoring capabilities.
- Include Quantifiable Achievements: The cover letter provides quantifiable achievements, such as a 40% increase in on-site sales transactions and a 30% improvement in photo editing time.
Wildlife Photographer
- Highlighting over seven years of experience in online education and e-learning contributes significantly to establishing credibility and expertise in the role of an Online Educator.
- Emphasising achievements such as increasing student engagement rates by 40% and improving satisfaction scores by 35% underscores the candidate's ability to impact student learning positively.
- Mentioning specific tools and outcomes, like integrating educational technology to support diverse learning styles, showcases adaptability and proficiency with modern teaching aids that are essential for an online educator.
- Drawing attention to advanced certifications such as "Advanced Online Teaching Techniques" and other relevant courses indicates a commitment to personal development and staying current with educational methodologies.
Aerial Photographer
- Highlighting achievements such as winning the 'Best Aerial Photo' at the National Defence Photography Awards demonstrates recognition and expertise in the field, which is crucial for a photography role.
- Emphasising technical skills, such as proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, showcases the candidate's ability to produce high-quality digital imagery, important for roles involving image processing and production.
- Detailing experience in leading teams and developing protocols, as well as training new hires, indicates strong leadership and mentoring abilities, which are valuable in a senior position.
- Featuring advanced courses like the one from the British Institute of Professional Photography helps establish credibility and specialised knowledge in aerial photography, a key aspect for aviation or reconnaissance photography roles.
Underwater Photographer
- Emphasising Relevant Experience: The cover letter effectively highlights Olivia's direct experience in vehicle stock photography and her tenure at various relevant companies. This showcases her familiarity with the automotive industry and demonstrates her career progression, which is essential for roles within this niche.
- Quantifiable Achievements: The letter includes specific metrics (e.g., a 20% improvement in viewer interaction and a 25% reduction in editing time) that provide concrete evidence of Olivia's effectiveness and impact in her previous roles, making her a stronger candidate.
- Specific Skills and Techniques: The cover letter mentions specialised skills like 'Advanced Automotive Photography' and 'Adobe Lightroom Masterclass', pointing out certifications from industry-recognised sources. This indicates Olivia's continuous professional development and expertise in using industry-standard tools.
- Team Leadership and Collaboration: By indicating her ability to lead a team and collaborate with various departments, Olivia demonstrates soft skills beyond photography, such as teamwork and leadership—vital competencies for fostering a cooperative work environment.
Freelance Photographer
- Highlighting Measurable Impact: The cover letter successfully includes specific metrics, such as a "50% social media engagement boost" and a campaign achieving "1 million views," demonstrating measurable impact and success in previous roles.
- Experience with Notable Brands: Showcasing work experience with brands like Red Bull Media House, The North Face, and GoPro adds credibility and indicates proficiency in handling high-profile projects.
- Emphasis on Eco-friendly Initiatives: The mention of pioneering eco-friendly practices in photography shoots highlights a commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly valued in creative industries.
- Complementary Skills and Courses: Listing skills such as "Adobe Creative Suite" alongside relevant courses like "Advanced Nature Photography Techniques" provides evidence of continuous learning and technical competence.
Event Photographer
- Emphasise your experience in developing dual-platform campaigns, such as those conducted on Instagram and TikTok, to showcase your expertise in strategic social media growth.
- Highlight your proficiency in industry-standard software tools, like Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects, particularly when applying for roles with a strong focus on content production and videography.
- Mention any notable awards or recognitions received for your work in content production or innovative campaigns, as this can strengthen your credibility and demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
- Include your multilingual skills when applying to companies with a global presence, as it can be advantageous for roles that require collaboration with international teams or managing diverse audiences.
Commercial Photographer
- Quantified Achievements: The use of specific percentages and numerical data, such as increasing brand visibility by 40% and enhancing client engagement by 30%, effectively demonstrates the impact of Noah's work and lends credibility to the claims.
- Cohesive Career Narrative: The cover letter outlines a clear progression in Noah's career, showcasing experience with prestigious companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and McLaren Automotive, which establishes expertise and builds trust in the specialised field of automotive photography.
- Emphasis on Collaboration: Highlighting cross-department collaboration and team-led initiatives underscores Noah's ability to work effectively with others, a critical skill in complex projects often seen within the automotive industry.
- Relevant Education and Courses: The inclusion of details about both the Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Photography, along with specific courses related to automotive photography, strengthens the application by demonstrating a solid educational foundation aligned with the job role.
Food Photographer
- Highlight Relevant Experience: The cover letter effectively showcases over 7 years of experience in professional food photography, listing positions with well-known companies like Morrisons, BBC Good Food, and Sainsbury's, reflecting valuable industry experience critical for a specialised role.
- Emphasise Technical Skills: It mentions proficiency in tools such as Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and Canva, as well as expertise in advanced lighting and real-time photo editing, emphasising essential technical skills needed for a media specialist role.
- Include Measurable Achievements: The letter effectively presents quantifiable results such as a 30% increase in client engagement and a 40% boost in seasonal product reach, underlining the candidate's capability to drive positive business outcomes through visual strategies.
- Feature Specialised Training: By mentioning certificated course work like Advanced Food Photography Techniques, the candidate illustrates commitment to professional development, which is important for staying competitive and relevant in the field.
Medical Photographer
- Highlighting experience with advanced Photoshop and IT skills is crucial for a Clinical Photographer role, as proficiency in digital imaging and editing software is essential.
- Showcasing achievements in improving operational efficiencies and client satisfaction emphasises the candidate's ability to deliver high-quality services and streamline workflow processes.
- Mentioning relevant educational background, such as a BSc in Medical Illustration and an MSc in Medical Photography, demonstrates a strong foundation and commitment to the field.
- Providing examples of collaboration with clinical staff across departments highlights the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment, which is important in medical settings.
Scientific Photographer
- Relevant Experience: Highlight over 8 years of experience in editorial roles, with specific mention of previous positions at reputable cultural institutions like the British Museum and the National Galleries of Scotland.
- Quantifiable Achievements: Emphasise quantifiable improvements in engagement, such as a 25% enhancement in audience comprehension due to precise language adjustments, demonstrating the ability to effectively communicate complex topics to a broad audience.
- Specialised Skills and Courses: Mention specialised courses, such as the Advanced Copyediting Techniques and Science Communication Masterclass, underscoring dedication to continued professional development in roles requiring precision and effective science communication.
- Passion for Cultural Heritage: Convey a passion for cultural heritage and editorial work, reinforcing a connection to the values and mission of potential employers in the museum or cultural sectors.
Real Estate Photographer
- Emphasis on Relevant Experience: The cover letter highlights over 3 years of experience in property photography, which aligns well with the role and shows a proven track record in the industry.
- Quantifiable Achievements: It includes specific achievements, such as boosting client engagement by 40% and increasing property views by 30%, providing concrete evidence of the applicant’s impact.
- Highlighting Key Skills: The cover letter mentions proficiency in advanced editing techniques using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, which are crucial skills for a Property Photographer/Videographer.
- Integration of Education and Courses: References to a Master of Arts in Photography and specialised courses showcase the applicant's formal background and continuous learning in real estate photography.
Travel Photographer
- Emphasises specific experience in dance photography, showcasing relevant expertise and the ability to deliver high-quality images in a niche market.
- Highlights key achievements such as increasing client satisfaction and efficiency improvements, demonstrating impact and effectiveness in previous roles.
- Mention of team leadership contributes to demonstrating the ability to manage and mentor others, a valuable skill for roles that may involve supervising assistants or junior photographers.
- Outlines relevant educational background and certifications in photography, reinforcing technical proficiency and commitment to continuing professional development.
Portrait Photographer
- Spotlight the Photoshop expertise and advanced techniques by referencing the "Adobe Certified Expert" course and projects showcased in major magazines, underscoring specialisation in portrait photography modification.
- Emphasise leadership skills gained from heading a team of photographers, which led to a 15% increase in team performance, showcasing the ability to foster a collaborative and productive work environment.
- Highlight the Master of Arts in Photography from the University of Brighton, reinforcing a solid educational background that complements practical experience in studio settings.
- Detail achievements such as the Award-Winning Portrait Series, which not only demonstrates exceptional talent but also contributes to increasing the studio's regional recognition and brand visibility.
Product Photographer
- Highlighting Achievements: The cover letter effectively showcases Chloe Bell's accomplishments, such as increasing photo engagement rates by 20% and sales by 10%, which helps demonstrate tangible results and her impact on past employers.
- Relevant Experience: Chloe emphasises her experience with well-known companies like Selfridges, Next, and Marks & Spencer, which lends credibility and reinforces her expertise in still life photography and brand collaboration.
- Specific Skills: Key skills like advanced photography techniques, Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and creative direction are well articulated, aligning with the role's requirements and demonstrating technical proficiency.
- Continuous Learning: The mention of completed courses, such as the "Advanced Lighting Techniques" certification, highlights Chloe's commitment to continuous professional development, which is crucial for a specialised field like photography.
Photographer cover letter example
Mia Ward
Newcastle
+44 1234 567890
help@enhancv.com
Dear Hiring Manager,
I'm writing to express my interest in the Professional Photographer position within your highly creative team. During my research, I discovered your company's commitment to innovation and high-quality visual content, which perfectly aligns with my professional values and experience.
As a Senior Photographer at Imagenie Studios, I spearheaded a marketing campaign that achieved a remarkable 150% increase in engagement. By leveraging advanced lighting techniques and strategic cross-functional collaboration, our team was able to enhance brand visibility significantly. This experience honed my ability to manage large-scale projects efficiently while driving creative growth.
I would appreciate the opportunity to share how my skills and experiences align with your needs and vision. I am eager to further discuss how I can contribute to your company’s future success. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
Sincerely,
Mia Ward, Professional Photographer
What sets this cover letter apart:
- Highlighting specific achievements: Mentioning a quantifiable success, such as spearheading a marketing campaign that led to a 150% increase in engagement, effectively demonstrates the candidate's results-driven approach and impact on past projects.
- Aligning values with the company: Expressing how the company’s commitment to innovation and high-quality visual content matches the candidate's professional values helps create a connection and shows genuine interest in the role.
- Emphasizing relevant skills: Discussing the use of advanced lighting techniques and strategic cross-functional collaboration showcases the candidate's technical skills and ability to work collaboratively, which are crucial in the photography field.
- Demonstrating enthusiasm for the role: Clearly expressing eagerness to discuss how the candidate can contribute to the company's success underlines commitment and a proactive attitude.
Importance of cover letters in the United Kingdom
Cover letters are a crucial tool in making your application personal and engaging.
Here are three reasons why they matter:
- Personalisation: Unlike a CV, a cover letter allows you to show your enthusiasm for the role, giving a more personal insight.
- Addresses details about your career: Whether you’re changing careers or have gaps in employment, your cover letter offers a space to explain these in a constructive way.
- Meeting the job requirements: Your cover letter should be unique and tailored, clearly showing how your skills align with the role requirements.
What UK employers expect from a cover letter
Want to make an excellent first impression on your UK employers with your cover letter?
Here are three handy tips and tricks to keep in mind when creating yours:
- Take the time to research: Invest in learning about the company and role by exploring their website, social media, and doing a thorough Google search. Focus on the products and services they offer, as well as awards and industry recognitions.
- Focus on the company's values: Refer back to your research and to uncover what the company believes in. Integrate those values into your cover letter by explaining how you embody them. For example, if they value diligence, highlight how you’ve consistently met tight deadlines or successfully managed heavy workloads.
- Align your skills with the job requirements: Read the job advert carefully and identify the most sought-after skills. Select the top three skills that you can substantiate with your most noteworthy achievements, to demonstrate your expertise in those areas.
How to format a photographer cover letter
Your cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong impression, so its structure must be professional and clear.
Here's an overview of how a UK cover letter should be structured:
- Begin with your address and contact details at the top.
- Include the employer’s name and address directly below.
- Add the date to the left or right of the page.
- Use an appropriate greeting, such as 'Dear Mr Smith' or 'Dear Sir/Madam.'
- Open with a strong introductory paragraph.
- Develop your points in the middle paragraphs, focusing on relevant skills and experience.
- Close with a concise conclusion, reiterating your interest and suitability for the role.
- Sign off formally with your name and signature.
The software used to match your profile to the job, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), won’t scan your cover letter. Instead, the cover letter reads as a more personalised note to the recruiter.
When it comes to choosing a font, consider modern options like Lato, Rubik, or Chivo, which should also be applied to your CV to maintain a consistent appearance.
Additionally, your cover letter should be single-spaced with 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins on all sides (our templates are pre-set with these specifications so you can focus on your cover letter content).
Finally, always send your cover letter as a PDF to preserve the formatting and prevent edits.
How to write your photographer cover letter salutation
In a world of AI and instant prompts, taking the extra time to personalise your cover letter truly makes a difference.
Address the hiring manager directly with a customised greeting (e.g., 'Dear Mr Bond', 'Dear Ms Penny').
You can often find their name on LinkedIn (under the job listing or by searching) or in the ‘About’ or ‘Meet the Team’ section of the company's website. If in doubt, you can also contact the reception for assistance.
If you can't find the name, rather than using 'Dear Sir or Madam', opt for something more personal, such as 'Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager'.
How to write your photographer cover letter intro
Employers do want someone who not only delivers results but does so with enthusiasm.
Thus, a great way to start your cover letter is by showing how your personal passions align with the role.
Highlight one or two aspects of the job description that resonate with you, and explain why this makes you a perfect fit for the company and its culture.
Cover Letter Intro
As a photographer who passionately embraces storytelling through visual artistry, I am drawn to join [Company Name]. Your commitment to sustainable practices and the celebration of diverse narratives aligns perfectly with my creative values and professional aspirations.
RIGHT
How to write your photographer cover letter body
Which makes for a stronger cover letter body: a long-winded account of everything you’ve ever done, or a focused achievement that’s directly relevant to the job?
Hint: recruiters prefer the second.
When writing your cover letter, select your most impressive achievement that:
- Directly aligns with the job description and role.
- Is quantifiable with tangible metrics like numbers or percentages.
- Maps out your hard and soft skills, showcasing what makes you unique.
- Tells the story of the impact you could have on the organisation.
Cover Letter Body
During my six-year tenure at Ashton Photography Studio, I spearheaded a project to enhance our post-production workflow efficiency, which resulted in a 35% reduction in editing time. This significant achievement was primarily driven by my deep understanding of editing software and my ability to implement a more streamlined process, allowing our team to service clients more swiftly and effectively. This change not only increased client satisfaction, reflected by a 20% boost in repeat business, but also provided our photographers with more creative time behind the lens, strengthening the overall quality of our portfolio. My proficiency in utilising technology to optimise operational efficiency made a lasting impact that continues to benefit the studio now.
RIGHT
How to write a closing paragraph
Looking to leave a lasting impression with your cover letter closing?
Then, you should certainly end with a promise—one that outlines what you aim to achieve in the role. Ensure your goals are realistic and align with the company’s needs.
You might also include a call to action, enquiring when you can expect to hear back and what the next steps in the hiring process will be.
Cover Letter Closing
In closing, I am eager to bring my passion for photography and my proven track record of creative innovation to [Company Name]. I am confident that my skills and experience will prove to be an asset to your esteemed team. I would be thrilled to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of your company, and I warmly invite you to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together.
RIGHT
Conclusion
Creating a compelling cover letter is vital in making a positive first impression on potential employers. Personalise your letter by addressing the hiring manager directly and ensuring your skills align with the job description.
Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the role, and express genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity. Finally, maintain a professional format that complements your CV for a cohesive application.
