Job Description
Wildlife photography in Australia offers exciting opportunities to work with conservation groups, eco-tourism operators, and international media agencies. From kangaroos hopping across open plains to documenting rare bird species and marine life, this field requires passion, creativity, and technical skills.
Photographers are often engaged in conservation campaigns, eco-tourism promotions, stock photography, documentaries, and research projects. The role demands not only photography skills but also patience, adaptability, and the ability to work in challenging environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Capture high-quality photographs of wildlife in diverse Australian habitats (deserts, rainforests, coastal areas).
- Collaborate with conservation NGOs, eco-tourism companies, and research institutes to document species and landscapes.
- Provide images for print and digital publications, exhibitions, and awareness campaigns.
- Build and maintain stock photography portfolios (Getty, Shutterstock, Alamy, Adobe Stock).
- Travel frequently to remote and rural locations for assignments.
- Follow ethical wildlife photography practices and respect conservation guidelines.
Salary & Earnings (Approximate)
- Entry-Level Photographer (Assistants/Small Projects): AUD $40,000 – $50,000 / year
- Freelance Wildlife Photographer (Full-Time): AUD $60,000 – $85,000 / year
- Research/Project-Based Photographer: AUD $1,500 – $5,000 / project
- Stock Photography Royalties: AUD $1 – $15 per image (average sale)
- International Assignments (Documentaries/Research): AUD $1000+ per week
Detailed Requirements
Education & Background
- Formal degree/diploma in Photography, Media, Visual Arts, or Environmental Sciences (preferred but not always required).
- Specialized courses in wildlife/nature photography or field research training are an advantage.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency with DSLR/Mirrorless cameras, telephoto & macro lenses, drones, and tripods.
- Knowledge of lighting techniques, low-light photography, and long-distance shooting.
- Advanced use of editing tools such as Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One.
- Familiarity with videography equipment for short wildlife films/documentaries.
Field Skills
- Patience and endurance to spend long hours outdoors in difficult conditions.
- Strong observation skills to track animal behavior safely and ethically.
- Ability to work in remote, rural, and sometimes hazardous environments (e.g., crocodile zones, desert heat).
- Survival skills such as navigation, camping, and basic first aid.
Professional Skills
- Strong storytelling ability – turning wildlife images into compelling narratives.
- Excellent communication skills to interact with conservationists, researchers, and tourism companies.
- Business knowledge for contract negotiation, pricing, and portfolio management.
- Ability to work independently or in teams on collaborative projects.
Other Requirements
- Valid passport & travel permits for assignments across Australia.
- Driving license (4WD preferred) for remote site access.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings, late nights, and weekends.
- Physical fitness for hiking, carrying heavy camera gear, and working in outdoor climates.
Benefits
- Exposure to global conservation and eco-tourism projects.
- Opportunities for international recognition through exhibitions and publications.
- Freelance flexibility – combine projects, stock sales, and documentary assignments.
- Chance to contribute directly to wildlife awareness and conservation.
