People often want to know whether or not it is worthwhile to get a degree in photography. There was a time when it was necessary if you planned to find a job in the field, but today, it isn’t necessary. However, there are benefits to getting a degree. You will gain experience and knowledge, which will make you a more skilled and versatile photographer.
What Do You Learn When You Get a Photography Degree?
A photography degree is usually a BFA, and you will get valuable training in the field. Take a look at some of what you learn.
1. Technical Skills
The technical skills that you develop through your photography degree are extremely beneficial to your future career. You will learn different styles of shooting photographs, as well as how light impacts different shots.
Your courses are led by professors with extensive experience in the field, and they will guide you through the experience and share their knowledge with you. You have the opportunity to learn different styles of photography so that you can specialize in what suits you the best.
2. You Can Try Different Techniques
When you get your degree in photography, you will learn a range of techniques and have the opportunity to try different ones that you may not have known about. There are many different styles of photography and you can use different mediums.
You might learn that you are interested in portrait photography, landscapes, wildlife, or any other field. As you take classes and are exposed to other techniques, you may discover one that you want to pursue.
3. You Will Use Different Equipment
Pursuing a degree in photography gives you an opportunity to use different types of equipment. This will help you discover how different lenses impact your photos, and you will learn about lighting and how to create the best light for a scene. Photography equipment can be very expensive, so this gives you an opportunity to try different equipment and learn what you want to buy.
4. You Can Make Professional Connections
When you are starting out as a photographer, having connections is a great way to find work. Spending four years pursuing your degree is a great way to network and make professional connections. You will have a body of students who are also studying photography, and your professors can be valuable connections as well. You will also meet other people in the industry, and you may get work from them later on.
5. You Will Learn Other Skills
There is more to photography than learning how to take great photos. When you pursue a degree, you will learn how to edit your photos as well. You can learn how to retouch the photos, and you will learn about how to run your own business. There are a lot of different valuable classes available for you to prepare for your future career.
6. You Gain Better Understanding of the Industry
While you are pursuing your photography degree, you will gain a better understanding of the industry. You will learn about the different career options, which include more than being a photographer. This is a great opportunity to learn where your interests lie.
The Benefits of a Photography Degree
In addition to all that you will learn about photography, there are benefits to getting your degree. While you are in college, you will meet other people who share your interests. You can also make lifelong connections, and you will have a lot of social opportunities. In addition, your college may provide an opportunity for you to exhibit your photographs so that you can get some exposure.
Another benefit is that you will have a college degree. This is a huge accomplishment, and it is evidence that you are trained for your industry. While you may not need the degree for certain jobs, you will be able to present it to anyone who wants evidence that you have training, and you can branch out to teach photography later in life.
Although there are plenty of photography jobs that don’t require a degree, you will have access to those that do. You will also receive a great education, as you will take other electives in addition to photography. You also have access to a lot of experts through your college, so you have a great opportunity to learn from others.
You will be able to specialize in an area of photography if you already know what appeals to you. If you plan to become a portrait photographer, you can focus on that area and gain in-depth knowledge in your field.
The Disadvantages of Getting a Photography Degree
Although there are many advantages to getting a photography degree, there are also some disadvantages. Sometimes colleges are slow to change to keep up with the changes in the industry. You may find that some classes are outdated or don’t account for the latest technology.
Another disadvantage is the cost. You will either pay for your degree or have some student loan debt when you finish, and it may equal one year’s salary. In addition, getting a degree doesn’t guarantee that you will get a job, and you might plan on working for yourself. You will still need to pay the student loans back.
Finally, you will take some classes that may not relate to the field you want to pursue. This is a part of your education, but some people find it annoying.
Can You Learn Photography on Your Own?
Some people choose to learn photography on their own. There is so much information available on the Internet, and you can specialize in your favorite field. You have access to YouTube videos, articles, guides, and online courses, and you can always work with an established photographer.
If you plan to learn photography on your own, the first thing you need to do is become familiar with every aspect of your camera. You should start by reading your user manual. They include important information about the different features available on your camera, and you want to know as much as possible.
You can watch tutorials online to learn different techniques. Start with videos about your camera model and look for information about how to get the most out of your camera. You should also look at photography books and go through online portfolios to gain inspiration. Practice recreating some of what you see so that you can master these skills.
One of the most important things that you can do is practice your photography. You should bring your camera with you every time you go anywhere so that you can practice taking photos in different lighting and different settings. This is essential to developing your personal style that will distinguish you from other photographers.
You should make networking a part of your schedule because you need to make connections so that you benefit from referrals. You can get to know other photographers and try to establish yourself in your community. Developing relationships is essential to any business, and photography is no different.
Another opportunity to pursue is apprenticing for an established photographer. You will gain experience taking photographs, and you can get into the field. Make sure that you work with someone who wants to share their knowledge and give you opportunities to gain experience.
You can attend workshops to learn new skills, and join a forum on photography. You will meet other people in the industry, and you can learn from what others have to say. If you want to see how your work is received, you can enter a photography competition.
Once you have some examples of your work, you should create a portfolio online. This can serve as a resume to show clients, and you can use it to gain new business. Make sure that you include your best work, and don’t add too many photos. You want to impress clients and show them what you can do. You can build your own website so that you can start marketing your skills.
As you work to develop your skills, make sure that you find your style. Great photographers always distinguish themselves from everyone else, so work to figure out what makes your photography unique.
Another great idea is to follow photographers on your social media sites. This allows you to see what they are doing and how people react to them. It may also inspire you to create new images. You should also work on your editing skills, as this is a big part of becoming successful.
Final Words
If you want to become a photographer, you aren’t required to get a degree. However, many people do. When you are deciding, you need to consider what is best for you by comparing the advantages and disadvantages.
Some people want formal training before they begin their careers, while others want to get started and learn as they go. It really depends on your budget and your needs, but either way will work. It is worth it to get a photography degree if you want to spend four years in college and start your career with a solid foundation.
