Pathways in Professional Photography

The majority of photographers working today sustain their professional work through a range of approaches — skills that expand far beyond making great photography. Hear insights from working professionals about how to pitch stories to photojournalist editors, apply for a fellowship, teach others, or take on commercial work — some of the most common pathways to grow your profession.

This 60-minute mini-workshop will begin with a short panel discussion led by Erica Garber (CatchLight), with Jordan Vonderhaar (Texas State University) and Pu Ying Huang (The Texas Tribune), before breaking into smaller groups to dive more deeply into the specific areas connected to the speakers’ expertise.

Participants will be asked to share their key questions in advance of the session — these will be addressed in the opening panel. For the breakouts, participants are welcome to bring an edit of 5-10 images (either on your laptop or as prints, not on your phone, please) and/or a 250-word project statement with their group for discussion. All participants will depart with a list of resources.

Whether you are an emerging photographer or a seasoned veteran moving your work in a new direction, this session will help you make the most of the opportunities on the horizon. The workshop is a part of an ongoing series, Perfecting the Pitch, made possible by CatchLight’s education partner, PhotoWings.

PhotoWings’ mission is to highlight and help facilitate the power of photography to influence the world. They help photography to be better understood, created, utilized, seen, and saved.

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⚠️ Parking will be restricted due to road closures for The Texas Tribune Festival. Please plan your travel accordingly.

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CatchLight is a visual-first media organization that leverages the power of visual storytelling to inform, connect, and transform communities.

PhotoWings is a nonprofit organization dedicated to utilizing the power of photography to further deep thinking, communication, and action.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, digital-first, nonpartisan media organization that informs and engages Texans about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.