Photojournalist Resume Examples & Templates

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that scan resumes for keywords and structure. ATS rank resumes by keyword matches and can reject files with unreadable formatting.

For a Photojournalist, ATS often look for terms that match newsroom needs. Common keywords include "photojournalism", "DSLR", "mirrorless", "Adobe Lightroom", "Adobe Photoshop", "AP Style", "caption writing", "deadline shooting", "news editing", "freelance assignments", and "media law".

• Use clear section titles: "Work Experience", "Education", "Skills", "Certifications".
• Place keywords naturally in bullets and job descriptions.
• Use .docx or PDF files without heavy design.

Avoid complex formatting like tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or embedded graphics. ATS often skip content inside those elements. Keep layout single-column and linear.

Pick standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use simple bullets and consistent dates like "Jan 2020 - Jun 2022". Spell out acronyms at least once, for example "Associated Press (AP)".

Common mistakes matter. Replacing keywords with creative synonyms can cost you interviews. Relying on a header or footer for contact details can hide that data from the ATS. Omitting core skills like Lightroom or AP Style will lower keyword match scores.

Finally, tailor your resume for each job posting. Scan the job for required tools and methods. Then add those exact phrases naturally, so both humans and ATS see the fit.

Choose a clean, photo-friendly template for a Photojournalist. Use a reverse-chronological layout so hiring managers see your recent assignments first. Keep the template simple so applicant tracking systems can parse dates, job titles, and skills easily.

Keep length tight. One page usually works for entry-level and mid-career photojournalists. Use two pages only if you have long-form projects, named exhibitions, or many editorial credits.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10-12pt and headers to 14-16pt. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and add clear margins so images and captions breathe.

Let your images support your work history, not replace it. Use small, embedded thumbnails with clear captions and links to full galleries. Put gallery links in a clear Contact or Portfolio section so recruiters can open them easily.

Avoid common formatting mistakes. Don’t use heavy columns, complex tables, or layered graphics that break parsing. Don’t use many colors or custom fonts that ATS often drop. Don’t cram too many lines per inch; white space helps readability.

Structure your resume with clear headings like Contact, Professional Experience, Selected Assignments, Education, Skills, and Awards. Start each bullet with a strong action verb and add one measurable outcome when you can. Keep each section short and scannable so editors can digest your story fast.

Tailoring a cover letter for a Photojournalist matters. A letter shows why you care about the story and how you shoot it. It complements your resume and helps editors see your voice and judgment.

Header: Put your name, email, phone, portfolio link, and date at the top. Add the company's name and the hiring manager if you know it. Keep this short and easy to scan.

Opening paragraph: State the Photojournalist role you want and why you want it. Say where you found the posting or who referred you. Lead with your strongest qualification or a quick snapshot of a key project.

• Body: Connect your work to the job needs. Mention specific skills like editorial photography, caption writing, or multimedia editing. Note soft skills such as judgment, speed, and ethics. Include one or two short, quantified achievements, like published assignments or awards.

Body paragraph tips: Use short paragraphs and one main idea each. Match words from the job description. Show you understand the newsroom, audience, or beats they cover.

Closing paragraph: Reiterate interest in this Photojournalist role and the company. Express confidence in your ability to contribute. Request an interview or a time to talk and thank the reader for their time.

Tone and tailoring: Keep the tone professional, confident, and warm. Write like you’re speaking to one editor. Use short sentences and active verbs. Customize each letter; don’t reuse a generic template without edits.

Practical checklist before sending: proofread captions and links, confirm portfolio loads on mobile, and keep the letter to one page. Small details show you care about editing and presentation.

Photojournalism hires people who capture truth with images and words. Your resume must show your visual skills, ethics, and quick judgment.

Small mistakes can cost you interviews. Pay attention to captions, formats, and clear impact statements so editors can trust your work.

If you're a Photojournalist, this set of FAQs and tips will help you shape your resume to show storytelling, technical skill, and editorial judgment. You'll find quick answers on format, what to include, and how to present your portfolio so editors can judge your work fast.