Marine Corps MOS · Support
4541 Combat Photographer
Overview
A Combat Photographer plans, captures, selects, and edits still imagery in studio, field, and combat environments using digital cameras and accessories. This specialist tailors imagery for different audiences and media, supports documentation and public communication requirements, performs quality control, transmits and archives products, and inspects and maintains photographic equipment.
Core Skills
- digital photography
- image editing and post-production
- visual storytelling
- requirements gathering from stakeholders
- media asset management
- working in austere and tactical environments
- time-sensitive content production
- communication and interviewing
- project planning for media missions
- adherence to policy and release guidelines
Civilian Software & Tools
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe InDesign
- Apple macOS
Civilian Career Paths
- Public Affairs
- Project Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Adobe Certified Professional in Digital Video Using Adobe Premiere Pro
- Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design & Illustration Using Adobe Illustrator · Funded
- Adobe Certified Professional in Print & Digital Media Publication Using Adobe InDesign · Funded
- Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop
Career Growth
- Adobe Certified Professional in Web Authoring Using Adobe Dreamweaver
- Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa) · Funded
- Certified Photogrammetric Technologist
- Digital Video Editor (DVE)
What the Work Involves
- Adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus according to a combination of factors, such as lighting, field depth, subject motion, film type, and film speed.
- Create artificial light, using flashes and reflectors.
- Determine desired images and picture composition, selecting and adjusting subjects, equipment, and lighting to achieve desired effects.
- Transfer photographs to computers for editing, archiving, and electronic transmission.
- Use traditional or digital cameras, along with a variety of equipment, such as tripods, filters, and flash attachments.
Related Occupations
- Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
- Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
- Graphic Designers
- Special Effects Artists and Animators
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 4541. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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