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Best photographer certifications

The best certifications for a photographer are Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Computer Service Technician (CST), and Master Digital Imaging Technician (MDIT).

Photographer certifications demonstrate your competency as a photographer to employers. However, not all photographer certifications provide the same value.

Below is a list of the best photographer certifications. Obtaining a photographer certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.

5 best photographer certifications

1. Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)

2. Computer Service Technician (CST)

The following can be expected to identify the major areas of training-study-knowledge and skills which the Computer Service Technician needs in order to perform the job of servicing the hardware and the systems software for personal computers: Computer Assembly-Disassembly; Motherboards; Buses; System Resources, Processor Characteristics; Memory Characteristics (Physical & Electronic); Secondary Storage Devices; Peripheral Devices; I/O Ports; Power Concepts and Power Supplies; Basic Networking Concepts; Portables; Digital Concepts; Troubleshooting/Preventive Maintenance; current Operating Systems; File Management; Safety Procedures/Handling; and Workplace Practices.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
Certifying website
Computer Service Technician
Certifying organization
ETA International

3. Master Digital Imaging Technician (MDIT)

New to the printing industry, the DICE Series of examinations - comprised of individual assessments covering Composition, Job Engineering, Image Capture and Digital Output - will challenge high-tech operators in the printing, publishing and advertising industries. For each examination successfully passed, candidates receive the Expert Digital Imaging Technician (EDIT) 5 x 7 inch certificate and letter of commendation. Upon successful completion of all four examinations in the Series, the NC awards the Master Digital Imaging Technician (MDIT) 8.5 x 11 inch certificate, an attractive NC lapel pin and letter of commendation.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
Certifying organization
The National Council for...

4. Forensic Photography & Imaging Certification

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)

5. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)

A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? 
Certifying organization
Event Planners Association

What is the best certification for a photographer?

The best photographer certification is Certified Professional Photographer (CPP). The Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) is awarded by the Professional Photographic Certification Commission.

Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this photographer certification:

  • To become a certified Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), you need to pass the exam.
  • This certificate requires more than two years of work experience.
  • Renew certification every 4 year.
Best certifications

The most common combination of photographer certifications include: Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Computer Service Technician (CST), and Master Digital Imaging Technician (MDIT).

Online courses for photographers to earn certifications

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