Why be represented by an agency as a photographer?

-what are the benefits of being represented as opposed to going freelance?Freelance photography and agency representation are not either or.



In fact you have to be a freelance photographer to be represented by an agent. An agent can't legally represent a photographer who is employed by someone else.





An agent can help a photographer get work. However, they are less common than they used to be. In the past an agent would look at physical portfolios and then work with buyers who were looking for a certain style. Today, a buyer can easily look at a photographer's website, and know right away if they want to hire them without going through an agent.





I still use an agency (Getty) for my stock sale.
An advertising photographer needs a rep, they will represent several photographers with different specialities, fashion, still life, cars,food, people ,to name a few. the rep will quote, organise and be there during the shoot to keep the client happy, he or she will charge around 20-25% of the photo fee, that's not much when you bear in mind how much time it saves you and that they know all the art buyers in every ad agency , something that on your own would never be possible.
A rep will get you business. And may do some of the other business side for you. They may also be a waste of your money.

If you aren't any good, a rep isn't going to do you any good.

Times are very hard, and many photographers are quitting and getting a different job. Mowing lawns is a much lucrative profession in my area. Or cleaning pools, or washing windows. Seriously!

Way too many in the field, and too few customers who are willing to pay decently. And, why should they? Good photographers are undercutting each other right a left, just to pay some bills. Very few are making enough to feed a family. Even those who've been at it for decades.

Photography is fun, and can make you some money, but there are far better jobs out there right now.
its easier to get work and you know you have work unless your fired or let go. also you dont have the expense of advertising. but freelance you get to do your own name and people will get to know you, not the representative.