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What majors can I choose that will allow me to become a photographer in the future?
I am a high school student and I wondering what majors I need to take?
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11 answers
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Sebrena’s Answer
Hi Yiyin! If you’re hoping to become a photographer, there are several college majors that can help you get there. Some colleges offer a Photography major, which is the most direct path and will give you lots of hands-on experience with cameras, editing, and building a portfolio.
If your school doesn’t offer a specific Photography major, you can also consider majors like Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or Art, where you can often take photography as a concentration or elective. Majors like Media Arts, Film, Graphic Design, or Communications can also be helpful, since they include classes on visual storytelling and often cover photography as part of the program. No matter which major you pick, it’s a good idea to join photography clubs, take as many photography classes as you can, and work on your own projects outside of class to build your skills and your portfolio. Real-world practice is super important in photography, so look for opportunities to gain experience, whether through internships, student publications, or just taking photos on your own!
If your school doesn’t offer a specific Photography major, you can also consider majors like Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or Art, where you can often take photography as a concentration or elective. Majors like Media Arts, Film, Graphic Design, or Communications can also be helpful, since they include classes on visual storytelling and often cover photography as part of the program. No matter which major you pick, it’s a good idea to join photography clubs, take as many photography classes as you can, and work on your own projects outside of class to build your skills and your portfolio. Real-world practice is super important in photography, so look for opportunities to gain experience, whether through internships, student publications, or just taking photos on your own!
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Michael’s Answer
I agree with the other answers. A major in photography is an obvious choice. If you are specifically interested in photojournalism then a major in photojournalism is also an obvious choice. I don't know if you are interested in stills or video but learning both will only help your career. Good luck!
Thank you so much, Michael!
Yiyin
Updated
VA’s Answer
LERN PHOTOGRAHY 1ST , THEN ERN WAILL YOU LERN PSKILLES OF BASKIS OF TH PHOTOGRAHY
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THERAS A WEB SIT CALLED https://alison.com IT HAS MANY DEFRENT VERTYES OF COURSESCEASES YOU CAN GO AND LOOK FOR IT.
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Mohan’s Answer
Photography / Photojournalism – most direct path, focused on shooting and editing
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Yiyin !
It's great to see that you are exploring the wonderful and exciting career as a Photographer ! You'll only need one Major in college and that would be for Photography. Not many colleges offer it as a Major, but you are very fortunate to be in San Francisco where there are colleges offering a Photography Major for either an Associates Degree or a Bachelors Degree.
The following colleges in San Francisco (and other locations) offer a Major Program in Photography: Academy of Art University, California College of the Arts, City College of San Francisco, University of San Francisco for a Bachelors in Studio Art with an emphasis on Photography, San Francisco Art Institute, California Institute of the Arts in Valencia, and last but not least, my Alma Mater - California State University, Sacramento. It would be good to choose a school that offers both digital and film photography (non-digital). Remember to choose only the one Photography major as there are ways to keep very busy with this Major.
Now and as a photography student you can start networking, exploring and start a portfolio of your work. There's a lot to learn and the more time you spend getting experience and meeting industry people, the more you will sharpen your skills. Photosprouts offers a Teenager Summer Photography Camp in San Francisco. A separate 3-day Palo Alto Exploration program is also available, focusing on similar photography types but held at different locations including the Palo Alto Zoo and Stanford University. Both programs include transportation, entrance fees, and the opportunity to print and frame selected photos.
Also look into First Exposures, Digital Photo Academy, The Harvey Milk Photo Center, and RayKo Photo Center and Isla Studio for workshops.
One of the best benefits to becoming a photographer is that you can work for yourself, have your own business. Even though you could be hired full time permanent by a company, this work is mostly freelance and project based. Some businesses such as corporations, media outlets, or retail brands may hire for full time, but you'll obtain a lot of work doing project based work. It's a flexible job as far as schedule as you can manage your own way of working.
At college, you will meet many people that will become valuable contacts for work. Don't be surprised if you get paid work while still being a student. It will be important to create strong relationships within the photography department at college to be well informed about opportunities and to make new friends.
I hope this helps and remember - taking one Major in Photography only will prepare you to be an awesome Photographer !
Best wishes in all you do !
It's great to see that you are exploring the wonderful and exciting career as a Photographer ! You'll only need one Major in college and that would be for Photography. Not many colleges offer it as a Major, but you are very fortunate to be in San Francisco where there are colleges offering a Photography Major for either an Associates Degree or a Bachelors Degree.
The following colleges in San Francisco (and other locations) offer a Major Program in Photography: Academy of Art University, California College of the Arts, City College of San Francisco, University of San Francisco for a Bachelors in Studio Art with an emphasis on Photography, San Francisco Art Institute, California Institute of the Arts in Valencia, and last but not least, my Alma Mater - California State University, Sacramento. It would be good to choose a school that offers both digital and film photography (non-digital). Remember to choose only the one Photography major as there are ways to keep very busy with this Major.
Now and as a photography student you can start networking, exploring and start a portfolio of your work. There's a lot to learn and the more time you spend getting experience and meeting industry people, the more you will sharpen your skills. Photosprouts offers a Teenager Summer Photography Camp in San Francisco. A separate 3-day Palo Alto Exploration program is also available, focusing on similar photography types but held at different locations including the Palo Alto Zoo and Stanford University. Both programs include transportation, entrance fees, and the opportunity to print and frame selected photos.
Also look into First Exposures, Digital Photo Academy, The Harvey Milk Photo Center, and RayKo Photo Center and Isla Studio for workshops.
One of the best benefits to becoming a photographer is that you can work for yourself, have your own business. Even though you could be hired full time permanent by a company, this work is mostly freelance and project based. Some businesses such as corporations, media outlets, or retail brands may hire for full time, but you'll obtain a lot of work doing project based work. It's a flexible job as far as schedule as you can manage your own way of working.
At college, you will meet many people that will become valuable contacts for work. Don't be surprised if you get paid work while still being a student. It will be important to create strong relationships within the photography department at college to be well informed about opportunities and to make new friends.
I hope this helps and remember - taking one Major in Photography only will prepare you to be an awesome Photographer !
Best wishes in all you do !
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Andrew’s Answer
Think about what type of photography you want to pursue. If you're aiming to work for a company, news outlet, or non-profit, a degree in photography or journalism might be the best choice.
Many photographers work for themselves and run their own businesses, so a degree isn't always necessary. If you do want a degree, consider studying business, as it can be very helpful. I chose this path because I taught myself photography and needed business skills to succeed.
I've seen talented photographers struggle financially because they lack business know-how, while others with average skills thrive due to their business savvy.
Focus on your strengths and areas for improvement:
- If you're great at photography but need business skills, a business degree could be valuable.
- If you're good at business but new to photography, consider a photography degree or take some classes to improve your skills.
Many photographers work for themselves and run their own businesses, so a degree isn't always necessary. If you do want a degree, consider studying business, as it can be very helpful. I chose this path because I taught myself photography and needed business skills to succeed.
I've seen talented photographers struggle financially because they lack business know-how, while others with average skills thrive due to their business savvy.
Focus on your strengths and areas for improvement:
- If you're great at photography but need business skills, a business degree could be valuable.
- If you're good at business but new to photography, consider a photography degree or take some classes to improve your skills.
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hi Yin, welcome to the amazing world of photography! There are many paths to becoming a photographer, and choosing a photography major is just one option. It's up to you to decide what's best for you.
For me, photography started as a passion and became my career. I initially went to film school aiming to be a screenwriter and director. Although my journey took a different turn, I still use those filmmaking skills in my photography. One thing I wish I had done earlier is take business classes. Knowing how to manage and market your work is important, and I'm still learning this.
If you can, find a class on film photography. I had one in high school, and it gave me a great foundation. Understanding the basics, like the "holy triangle," will be valuable forever. Also, take photos of everything you can. If your friends play in a band, photograph them. Capture family gatherings, school events, and everyday moments with your friends. The more you shoot, the more you'll discover what you love in photography. By the time you choose a major, you'll have a clearer idea of your interests.
Another great idea is to work at a camera rental house. Look for one nearby and see if they have any job openings. You'll get to learn about different camera brands and gain hands-on experience.
I hope this helps you on your journey!
For me, photography started as a passion and became my career. I initially went to film school aiming to be a screenwriter and director. Although my journey took a different turn, I still use those filmmaking skills in my photography. One thing I wish I had done earlier is take business classes. Knowing how to manage and market your work is important, and I'm still learning this.
If you can, find a class on film photography. I had one in high school, and it gave me a great foundation. Understanding the basics, like the "holy triangle," will be valuable forever. Also, take photos of everything you can. If your friends play in a band, photograph them. Capture family gatherings, school events, and everyday moments with your friends. The more you shoot, the more you'll discover what you love in photography. By the time you choose a major, you'll have a clearer idea of your interests.
Another great idea is to work at a camera rental house. Look for one nearby and see if they have any job openings. You'll get to learn about different camera brands and gain hands-on experience.
I hope this helps you on your journey!
Thank you, Rachel for the advice.
Yiyin
Updated
Damon’s Answer
A major in Digital Media or Digital Photography should cover what companies are looking for in a staff or freelance photographer.
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Laeti Golden’s Answer
Hi Yiyin, that's a great question! I want to share some honest advice about a career in photography. You don't need a degree to become a successful photographer. While college can be helpful, it's not the only path. If you do go, take courses to learn the basics and technical aspects.
Get to know your camera inside and out. Practice taking lots of photos to understand different lighting conditions, like natural light, indoor light, and studio light. This will prepare you for any situation.
Read books and practice every day. Explore various subjects to find what you love, whether it's landscapes, portraits, or something else. Discovering your passion will make your career more enjoyable.
Follow photographers who inspire you on social media. Learn from them, but focus on finding your own style. You can also watch free tutorials on YouTube and take online courses. Consider reaching out to local photographers to see if you can shadow or assist them for hands-on experience.
Running a photography business involves more than just taking pictures. Learn about marketing, budgeting, selling your work, and managing your business. Connect with successful photographers to gain insights into the business side.
I went to college for photography and learned a lot, but I truly understood the business side afterward. I'm cheering you on and know you can succeed. I hope you find your niche and enjoy doing what you love!
Get to know your camera inside and out. Practice taking lots of photos to understand different lighting conditions, like natural light, indoor light, and studio light. This will prepare you for any situation.
Read books and practice every day. Explore various subjects to find what you love, whether it's landscapes, portraits, or something else. Discovering your passion will make your career more enjoyable.
Follow photographers who inspire you on social media. Learn from them, but focus on finding your own style. You can also watch free tutorials on YouTube and take online courses. Consider reaching out to local photographers to see if you can shadow or assist them for hands-on experience.
Running a photography business involves more than just taking pictures. Learn about marketing, budgeting, selling your work, and managing your business. Connect with successful photographers to gain insights into the business side.
I went to college for photography and learned a lot, but I truly understood the business side afterward. I'm cheering you on and know you can succeed. I hope you find your niche and enjoy doing what you love!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Yiyin
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello Yiyin, lots of answers for you to consider. My quick answer is definitely go to college and get a degree. That will allow you to earn a living as you establish your photography business. I recommend a liberal arts degree with a photo or art major. A photography major can be useful depending on which genre of photography the school offers. Since you're still in school, I suggest you explore the various genres of photography and find which interests you. Your public library can be helpful.
If you do not own an interchangeable lens camera, I suggest you acquire one. A used camera and lens is good to start. Oh, buy a digital camera, not film.
If you find that photography is your overwhelming passion... go for it.
best of luck.
d
If you do not own an interchangeable lens camera, I suggest you acquire one. A used camera and lens is good to start. Oh, buy a digital camera, not film.
If you find that photography is your overwhelming passion... go for it.
best of luck.
d
Updated
Jesse’s Answer
Definitely enroll in photography and journalism classes. Also, go out and take pictures of what is around your environment on your own time. Challenge yourself in aspects of photography such as angles, composition, and photo essays!
Thank you for your advice!!!
Yiyin