Capturing and sharing photographic images is now a principal and democratic form of communication without international boundaries and open to all. So how can a photography student create a successful photographic professional practice and define themselves as a professional photographer in the twenty-first century digital environment? The Essential Student Guide to Professional Photography is the first book for students that addresses and answers that question, presenting them with an understanding of the world of professional photography and the expectations within it. This book contains crucial, practical, engaging and inspirational insider information on: finding your area of specialization, developing personal projects, creating a professional website, securing internships, mastering social media as a business tool, working with commissioning editors and clients, understanding the importance of the moving image, engaging with professional photographic communities, building an appropriate marketing strategy, understanding the role of agents, stock libraries and syndication agencies, securing commissions, invoicing and understanding copyright, The Essential Student Guide to Professional Photography includes advice and real-life experiences from inspirational professional photographers, creative projects and assignments, and lists of photographers, websites and vital equipment. This book is a must-have for any student entering this competitive, exciting and highly creative industry. Book jacket.