Requirements for combat photography

[UsmcgunnaB]

Good evening Marines, I have been lurking on the forums for about 3 weeks, and have finally decided that I would create a profile, because I could really use some advice. I am working twards my goal of being among the Best and when talking with my recruiter, some questions were left less than answered. When looking at different jobs, the mos that really stuck out to me was combat photographer. I understand the basic qualifications, including the asvab scores and security clearances. However when talking to my recruiter he didn't sound to sure about the specific mos. He did say he would look into it, however he mentioned that he thinks I may need to have a portpholio to qualify. If there is any combat photographers on the forums, or anybody that may know specific qualifacations about this, I would appreciate any information that I could get.

[Injuncorn]

there is no need for a portfolio to qualify for combat photography. The only job field that requires that you have initial training and dwremonstrated skill is that of music.

You will learn everything that you need to know at your follow on MOS training at Ft. Meade, MD. I do, however, know that the boatspaces for combat photography usually fill up fast, as there are usually only about 10 Marine Corps wide every fiscal year. So, before you sign on the dotted line make certain that you are getting the job that you think that you are. Ive seen alot of young Marines find out after it's too late to turn back that they're going to be spending four years in a job that they'll hate.

Good luck to you and make sure that you depend on both your recruiter's word and your own personal research.

[UsmcgunnaB]

Thank you for all of your information and advice Injuncorn. I appreciate it, and i have done a little more research and found that this mos is not really what it seems. I was initially interested in documenting and fighting in combat but i do not believe that this is what the mos is primarily meant for. I have decided that i am going to sign for military police if i meet all of the qualifications for it, and it is available.

If there is any Marines on the forums that have worked in this MOS i would really appreciate any information that is given to me about the ''day in the life'' for you.

thanks again.

[RetPhotog]

I was involved in Marine Corps Photography for over 22 years. I loved it. I learned photography on 4x5 Speed Graphic cameras. It can be a very rewarding MOS. Most times you act alone on assignment. I started as a basic Photographer, then a Quality Control Specialist after going to Rochester Institute Of Technology. I also had the chance to attend Syracuse University for a full year for Photojournalism. All at USMC expense.

[Sgt Leprechaun]

If I had it to do over again, THAT's the MOS I would have chosen. Seriously.

[Sergeant M]

MOS 4641, Combat Photographer (SSgt to Pvt) PMOS
a. Summary. Combat photographers take digital photographs using all
types of cameras and accessories in a variety of environments (including time
of darkness and underwater) to support a wide range of requirements including:
information operations, operational imagery, civil affairs, intelligence
imagery, investigations, research, development, test and evaluation,
recruiting, etc. Performs equipment inspection, preventive maintenance,
visual and electronic quality control, captioning, archive accessioning, and
photographic finishing. Combat photographer NCOs draft reports, official
correspondence, and budget; supervise and instruct personnel in the operation
of all equipment and software related to MOS 4641, as well as supervising and
organizing all aspects of photographic operations.
b. Prerequisites
(1) Must have a GT score of 100 or higher.
(2) Must have normal color vision.
(3) Must be eligible for a secret security clearance.
(4) Must be a U.S. citizen.