fed2civ

GS-1060 Photography Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Photography (GS-1060) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.

GS Level Mappings

Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.

GS Level Group Corporate Titles Responsibilities Salary Range
1-4 Junior Photographer, Photography Assistant, Photo Editor, Content Creator Assists in capturing and editing images, manages digital assets, and ensures proper equipment maintenance. Contributes to creative projects under the guidance of senior photographers and editors. $35,000 - $45,000
5-7 Photographer, Digital Imaging Specialist, Creative Visual Specialist Responsible for independently executing photography projects, including planning shoots, setting up equipment, and editing images to meet client specifications. Collaborates with marketing teams for visual projects and maintains organized archives of all work. $45,000 - $65,000
8-9 Senior Photographer, Lead Photographer, Photography Manager Oversees photography projects and team members, develops creative concepts, and ensures high-quality production standards. Engages with clients to discuss visual needs and deliver results that align with brand goals. $65,000 - $85,000
10-11 Creative Director of Photography, Senior Visual Content Producer, Photography Studio Manager Leads the photography division, sets strategic vision, manages budgets, and coordinates with other departments to produce compelling visual content. Responsible for mentoring junior staff and enhancing the quality of photographic outputs. $85,000 - $110,000
12-13 Director of Photography, Art Director, Head of Visual Media Establishes overall photographic direction for the organization, directs multiple projects simultaneously, and ensures alignment with marketing strategies. Responsible for research and innovation in photography practices, overseeing large-scale projects and leading teams. $110,000 - $140,000
14-15 Senior Director of Photography and Visual Arts, Vice President of Creative Services, Chief Creative Officer Sets the vision and strategy for all creative visual content across the organization. Acts as a key decision-maker, responsible for budget oversight, talent acquisition, and establishing long-term goals for photography and related visual media initiatives. $140,000 - $180,000
SES Executive Vice President of Visual Strategy, Chief Marketing Officer with a Photography Focus, Senior VP of Artistic Development Provides executive leadership and strategic direction for all visual content within the organization, ensuring alignment with business goals and market trends. Engages with key stakeholders, represents the organization in high-level discussions, and shapes the future of the organization's visual representation. $180,000 - $250,000

Transferable Skills

Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.

  • • Proficient in digital and film photography techniques
  • • Ability to operate and maintain a variety of camera equipment and accessories
  • • Strong understanding of lighting, composition, and color theory
  • • Skilled in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
  • • Ability to manage and organize large portfolios of digital images
  • • Experience in conducting photo shoots in various settings (studio, outdoor, events)
  • • Strong attention to detail and quality control in photographic work
  • • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
  • • Excellent communication skills for interacting with clients and subjects
  • • Project management skills, managing deadlines and multiple assignments
  • • Knowledge of copyright, licensing, and ethical considerations in photography
  • • Ability to create compelling narratives and visual stories through imagery
  • • Marketing and promotional skills to showcase photography work
  • • Networking skills to build and maintain industry contacts and relationships
  • • Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment and software issues

Certifications & Education

Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.

  • Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)

    The Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) credential showcases an individual's expertise and commitment to high standards in photography. This certification can enhance credibility in the civilian market, as it demonstrates not only technical skills but also a professional approach to photography.

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Photoshop

    Obtaining the ACE certification in Photoshop indicates proficiency in one of the most widely used software applications for photo editing and manipulation. This expertise is invaluable in civilian employment, as it sets candidates apart in the competitive field of photography, especially for positions requiring advanced editing abilities.

  • Photography Certificate Programs (Community Colleges/Online)

    Completing a photography certificate program provides foundational knowledge and skills in various photography techniques, equipment usage, and post-production. This formal education can help transition federal employees into the civilian job market by making them more marketable to employers seeking well-rounded photography professionals.

  • Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Member

    Membership in PPA offers access to resources, networking opportunities, and additional certifications that enhance professional development. This affiliation can provide an edge in the civilian sector by connecting individuals with other professionals and potential job leads.

  • Social Media and Digital Marketing Courses

    Courses in social media and digital marketing teach critical skills for promoting photographic work online, which is essential in today's digital-centric market. Understanding how to effectively market one’s services can significantly increase business opportunities for photographers in civilian roles.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts (Photography Focus)

    A Bachelor's Degree with a focus on photography provides comprehensive training in artistic techniques, visual storytelling, and practical skills necessary for a career in photography. This degree not only enhances a candidate's skill set but also serves as a strong signal to potential employers of their commitment and expertise.

  • Drone Pilot Certification (Part 107)

    Certification as a drone pilot opens opportunities for aerial photography, which is increasingly in demand in various sectors including real estate, tourism, and environmental surveying. This skill can make a candidate more attractive to civilian employers looking for innovative photography solutions.

  • Photojournalism Certificate

    A certificate in photojournalism emphasizes storytelling through imagery, which is pivotal in many civilian roles including government communications and news media. This credential equips photographers with unique skills to narrate stories visually, greatly enhancing their employability in related fields.

  • Marketing Photography Courses

    Specialized courses in marketing photography focus on techniques to effectively capture products and services in a way that enhances their marketability. This knowledge is beneficial for anyone looking to enter commercial photography sectors, providing a direct application of skills learned from the GS-1060 series.

  • Visual Communication Degree

    A degree in visual communication encompasses a broader understanding of how images communicate messages, aligning well with photography's critical role in marketing and branding. This background can provide an edge in civilian roles that require more than just photography skills, such as content creation and strategic media management.

Typical Employers

See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.

  • Photography Studios
  • Advertising Agencies
  • Graphic Design Firms
  • Media Production Companies
  • Press and Publishing Houses
  • Corporate Marketing Departments
  • Event Planning Companies
  • Freelance Photography
  • Travel and Tourism Companies
  • Public Relations Firms

Career Transition Advice

Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.

  • Update your portfolio to showcase a diverse range of photography styles and techniques. Include both personal projects and professional work to highlight your versatility and creativity.
  • Network with professionals in the civilian photography industry through platforms like LinkedIn, industry events, and photography meetups to gain insights and job leads.
  • Consider obtaining certifications in photography or related areas, which can help enhance your marketability and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to civilian roles by using industry-specific keywords from job postings and emphasizing transferable skills such as project management, teamwork, and communication.
  • Stay informed about the latest trends and technologies in photography to remain competitive in the civilian market, and consider specializing in a niche that interests you.

Industry Trends

Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.

  • 📈 Increased demand for digital photography and videography skills as more agencies transition to online platforms for communications and marketing.
  • 📈 Growth in the use of drone technology for photography and visual documentation in fields like disaster response and environmental monitoring, creating new job opportunities.
  • 📈 Heightened importance of visual storytelling in government communications, particularly for social media, necessitating professionals who can blend photography with strategy and narrative techniques.
  • 📈 Emphasis on cybersecurity and the need for photographers to understand data protection, especially with sensitive imagery or media created for federal use.
  • 📈 A shift towards remote and hybrid work environments may expand the types of projects photographers will engage in, promoting versatility and adaptability in skills.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a federal GS-1060 Photography role to a private sector job can feel daunting, but with the right strategies and mindset shifts, you can navigate this change successfully. Below, you’ll find comprehensive advice focused on the key areas of mindset, resume and interview tips, networking, and translating your federal experience into private sector language.

Mindset Shifts

  1. Embrace Change: Moving to the private sector will likely involve a different culture and pace. Acknowledge that you’re stepping into a new environment with diverse dynamics and expectations. Being open to adapt will position you for success.
  2. Value of Your Experience: Understand that your federal experience is valuable. You’ve gained skills in professionalism, project management, and compliance that many private sector employers seek. Frame your federal work as a foundation for your new role rather than a limitation.
  3. Proactive Learning: Equip yourself with knowledge about the private sector you wish to enter. This may include understanding emerging trends in photography, media, or digital platforms. Embracing a continuous learning mindset will help you stay relevant and confident in discussions.
  4. Confidence in Skills: Recognize that the technical skills you possess in photography are sought after. Your creative eye, technical knowledge, and understanding of visual storytelling are assets. Have confidence in articulating these strengths during your job search.

Resume and Interview Tips

  1. Translate Federal Language to Private Sector: Use layman’s terms wherever possible. Instead of using federal jargon, describe your responsibilities in a way that highlights your skills. For example, instead of "conducted photographic documentation for federal projects," you can say "captured and produced professional photographs that effectively communicated project goals to stakeholders."
  2. Focus on Results: When detailing your experience, focus on accomplishments and contributions. Use quantifiable impacts where possible, such as "Increased engagement in visual campaigns by 30% through expert photography during community outreach programs."
  3. Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each position you apply for. Identify keywords in the job description and ensure those are reflected in your resume. Highlight relevant skills such as team collaboration, project management, and technical proficiency with photography equipment/software.
  4. Prepare for Common Interview Questions: Anticipate standard interview questions and formulate your responses in line with your federal experience. For example, when asked about teamwork, you could explain how you collaborated with diverse teams on federal projects to achieve photographic excellence and meet deadlines.
  5. Practice Sample Scenarios: Be prepared to describe your experiences in terms of the STAR approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This structured format helps convey your experience compellingly and clearly.

Networking Strategies

  1. Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your transition. Connect with professionals in your desired field, join relevant groups, and actively engage with posts related to photography and marketing.
  2. Attend Industry Events: Participate in local or national photography conferences and workshops. Networking face-to-face can provide valuable connections and insights into the private sector. Look for events that focus on media, marketing, or creative roles.
  3. Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals working in roles you aspire to. Most professionals appreciate an opportunity to share their experiences. Propose a brief chat over coffee or a phone call to discuss their career path and ask for tips on transitioning effectively.
  4. Utilize Alumni Networks: If you have attended college or university, tap into alumni networks. Alumni can be a valuable resource for job hunting tips, networking opportunities, and insider information about job openings.

Translating Federal Experience into Private Sector Language

  1. Showcase Transferable Skills: Identify and express your transferable skills. Skills such as time management, adherence to compliance standards, and ability to work under pressure translate well in many roles. For instance, mention how handling multiple projects under tight deadlines equipped you with excellent time management skills.
  2. Focus on Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Many private sector jobs emphasize teamwork and stakeholder engagement. Highlight instances from your federal role where successful collaborations led to project success or enhanced communication with stakeholders.
  3. Highlight Innovative Approaches: If you incorporated innovative or creative solutions in your federal role, make sure to mention them. The private sector values creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, so provide examples of how your photography contributed to innovative presentations or campaigns.
  4. Express Adaptability: The private sector often requires flexibility due to rapidly changing environments. Cite experiences where you adjusted your approach based on project needs or client feedback, demonstrating your ability to adapt to new challenges.

Conclusion

Transitioning from the federal sector to private employment may seem challenging, but with deliberate efforts, you can effectively market your photography skills and experience. Remember to engage with the process actively, build connections, and embrace the opportunities for growth and learning in the private sector. By translating your federal experiences into relevant private sector skills, adjusting your mindset, and strategically networking, you’ll set yourself up for a successful transition. Each step you take moves you closer to landing a fulfilling new role where your talents will shine.