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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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6 answers
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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!
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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!
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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 !
Laeti Golden 📸 Lifestyle Photographer Couples and Families
Lifestyle Photographer
7
Answers
Updated
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!
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
Damon’s Answer
A major in Digital Media or Digital Photography should cover what companies are looking for in a staff or freelance photographer.