Today everybody seems to be taking pictures of themselves and everything else. Photos are posted online immediately so the whole world will know how great you look. Most of these pictures aren't very good, and some of them are terrible. Taking good photographs requires talent, skill, and knowledge. If you are someone who likes to take interesting photos and has an interest in architecture, you might become a successful architectural photographer.

If you own a cell phone, you could probably take a picture anywhere and anytime you want. When you are learning the art of photography however, you are going to need better and more sophisticated equipment. You will also have to learn how it works. Instead of going out and buying the most expensive camera you can find, it is a better idea to start with something fundamental and affordable. Even these cameras have a multitude of options you can experiment with.

An advanced education is not a requirement to become a successful photographer, but you have a better chance of getting good jobs when you can put a bachelor's degree under the education section of your resume. You may have natural talent, but even talented craftsmen can learn from experienced professors who teach basic and advanced composition, lighting, color, structure, and software manipulation technique courses.

Photographers are visual artists, and that usually means they need to have visual resumes in the form of portfolios. While you are in college, there will be projects you are proud of and want to include in your portfolio presentation. As you gain more experience, your portfolio will change and evolve along with your confidence and experience.

The tradition of young artists apprenticing themselves to older, more mature, and experienced craftsmen has passed. In its place, today's young professionals tend to become assistants to successful and admired craftsmen willing to spend the time as mentors. If you are smart, you will soak up all the knowledge you can. It will be invaluable when you set out on your independent career.

Networking is an excellent way to advance your career, no matter what kind of work you do. As a working photographer, there are a number of organizations you can join where you will meet and brainstorm with others in your field. The more you are around talented photographers, the better your own work will become.

No one ever gets too old to learn. The most successful professionals are those who continue to find new and exciting ways to express themselves. In the world of photography, technology and technique are important. You need to keep up with innovations in order to remain relevant and competitive. Even good styles and techniques get stale unless they are injected with fresh ideas.

You may never be a world famous photographer, but you can become successful and earn a good living taking pictures of interesting buildings. Travel may be necessary, and standing for long periods of time will probably become the norm. You will have the satisfaction though of doing something you love and that is admired by others.