What should I study to become a photographer?

To become a photographer, you should study composition, lighting techniques, and design.

While a degree is not mandatory to open your studio, most successful photographers working in the industry today have a bachelor's degree in visual arts with a specialization in photography or have completed some sort of specialized training in photography. They will also have extensive on-the-job training.

Photography degree programs teach the technical, creative, and business skills required to be a professional photographer.

Typical coursework includes:

• History of Photography

• Black-and-White Photography

• Color Photography

• Lighting Techniques

• Digital Photography

• Photography as a Business

Here are a few different types of photography that you might explore as specialties:

• Aerial photography

• Macro Photography

• Natural Landscape Photography

If you are interested in becoming a photographer, there are plenty of certificate programs offered at community colleges. These can often be completed in less than a year and they offer courses in various topics such as how to take the best family photos or how to shoot events.

In a certificate course, you might learn:

• Fundamentals of Photography

• Digital Photography

• History of Photography

• Film Photography

An associate degree in photography is typically a two-year course offered as an associate of arts or science. They are mostly offered at community colleges and art schools. They prepare students for entry-level work in the field or further education at the bachelor's level.

Associate's coursework might include:

• Color Photography

• Nature Photography

• Studio Photography

• Photojournalism

To be eligible for a bachelor's degree in photography, students need to take specific classes related to general education. This level of degree is the most common among professional photographers. It usually takes four years to earn the degree, and it prepares students for many roles in the field as both employees and freelancers.

The typical curriculum includes the following courses:

The master's degree program in photography or the MFA program in studio photography explores photography theory and practice at a deep level. It prepares students to work as professionals in the field, including artists, instructors, and other related careers.

Graduates of this level will pick up skills in communication, problem-solving, and field knowledge. They'll also come away with a portfolio of future achievements.