Photography in the Military: Which Branch to Join?

Hi all, I'm an aspiring photographer, and I've been thinking about joining the military to both serve my country and continue my passion for photography. Do you guys have any insights on which branch would offer the best opportunities for this?

Sure! Each branch of the military offers opportunities for those interested in photography but how you engage with photography can differ between branches.

In terms of size, the Army and Air Force, being the largest branches, tend to have more opportunities strictly by virtue of their size. They might have more positions open for photographers and the range of assignments could be more diverse. In the Army, you'd typically be a Combat Documentation/Production Specialist, where you'll document combat and non-combat operations with both still and motion photography. In the Air Force, a similar role would be a Public Affairs specialist.

The Navy also provides opportunities as a Mass Communication Specialist, enabling you to not only apply your photography skills but also work on journalistic writing, graphic design, and multimedia production. The variety of experience could be beneficial to your long-term career.

The Marines have the role of Combat Camera Marines, where you'd be responsible for capturing still and video imagery in direct support of combat and humanitarian operations. However, keep in mind that this role in the Marines will require additional combat training that may not be as intense in other branches.

The Coast Guard also has a Public Affairs Specialist role, like the Navy, but again, it's the smallest branch and offers fewer slots.

Newer branches like the Space Force might not currently have as many dedicated roles for photographers, but it’s worth keeping an eye on as it grows and adds more positions.

Remember, it's not just about the best opportunities for photography. Consider the broader lifestyle and ethos of each branch, as well as the likelihood of where you'll be deployed. Some branches might have more international deployment opportunities, while others are more domestic. Have a chat with recruiters from different branches, convey your interests, and understand what they can offer. Best of luck!