With freelancers, stock image companies such as Getty, and news agencies such as the Associated Press, it seems almost impossible for newspapers to budget an in house photography staff and would rather spend the money on photo editors that can do the purchasing and scouting freelance talent. Is the best way to break into this field is to actually become a freelancer, submit photographs to stock image companies or get apply for positions with news agencies? I wouldn't mind working pro bono, but I have to eat too eventually. I know it's not the most lucrative profession either, so why are there such rare opportunities to get into this field.
From those I have talked to, freelance is the best way, not easy though. Set your targets small, build up your portfolio and then hit the syndicates. You may starve for awhile so don't quit your day job. And yes, it can be lucrative if you work hard and don't give up. My daughter is a professional photographer and graduated from a top school. Many of her class went into photojournalism. It's been almost 2 years since they graduated and 2 of them are already getting recognition in their field.
i did the same thing as a youth, in SF Ca, but learned unless you have a topic geared for a particular audience you really can only submit your photos to agencies and hope they get picked up. i now send photos to specific magazines but they're considered "questionable" & i'm not making tons of money, but i do have fun making 'em! lol!!
enjoy!!
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