This post is an update to a question I answered on Twitter: Do I need job experience to work as a photographer on ships?
Don’t worry, that’s not required reading. If you don’t care to read the post linked above, that’s just fine because the answer to Pia’s question is a simple YES. You definitely do need work experience.
Job qualifications required by some Principals through their Manning Agencies are as follows:
Must have at least 2 years work experience related to photography in Cruise, Hotel, Resort or Reputable Studio Photo Shop;
Last work experience should not be more than 2 years ago;
Must have a passport valid for at least 24 months;
No visible body tattoo (arms, neck, legs, nape etc.)
Source: MMC for Image and TED
Must have at least 1 year work experience as a Photographer or freelance work related to photography in Cruise ships, Hotels, Resorts or Reputable Studio Photo Shops;
et cetera.
Source: MMC for Costa
Diploma in photography an advantage and/or 1 year of industry experience;
Fit & Healthy (emergency duty responsibilities);
Fluent in English;
et cetera.
Source: Glassdoor for TSP