Photography

Photography Degrees

Photography degrees help aspiring photographers to learn the basic skills and techniques needed to become a professional. The field of photography is continuously changing with advancements in technology and equipment, so earning a Photography degree will provide you with the necessary skills needed to start your career.

Types Photography Degree Programs

A Photography degree will cover basic coursework such as equipment, techniques, and processes. There are several different types of photographers, and the type of photos they take determines what type of education they may need:

• News photographers, or photojournalists, usually need a bachelor’s degree in photography
• Portrait photographers usually take classes in business management, in additional to a Photography degree, since they work directly with customers and need to keep records, book appointments, and advertise their services
• Scientific photographers should take courses in the scientific or medical field they are photographing so they have a basic understanding of their topics.

Many photographers are freelance photographers, or self-employed, and either run their own studios or work as contractors for companies. All photographers need a portfolio which showcases their best work, and may even build out a professional website for themselves. Photographers should try to become assistants to professional photographers, to help them learn the technical knowledge and skills needed to run a portrait or commercial photography business, or studio.

Job Opportunities for Photographers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for photography jobs is expected to grow 12 percent between 2008 and 2018, and may be a result of population growth, the growth of internet magazines, journals, newspapers, websites, blogs, or the availability to get photography equipment at lower costs.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition