If you’re interested in becoming a professional photographer, explore all of the education options available to you. It’s important to understand what you need to do to get started.
Many aspiring professional photographers feel confused by the differences between photography certificates and online courses. They may also be unsure about college degrees or YouTube tutorials. These options differ greatly in terms of cost, what you can learn, how they are used, and the time it takes to finish. You must understand the differences in these options, depending on what you are looking for and how soon you would like to begin your career.
Is a college education required for professional photographers?
The answer is no.
Most clients today are looking for a photographer with experience and a high quality of work. The education path that you choose to get started is not as important as the quality of work you can show. This means you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars or years on a degree to become a talented, capable photographer. You’ll need a strong portfolio of photography instead. Daniela Dawson, a student advisor at the New York Institute of Photography, says, “As an active professional photographer, I’m rarely asked where I studied, but I’m always asked for my portfolio.”
Learn more about Online Photography Courses
Where can I get professional photography training
You can invest in formal photography training if you don’t have any experience or if you do but aren’t confident enough to label yourself as a professional. A college degree isn’t a prerequisite, but you decide the cost and style of your training.
Many photographers who are now running successful businesses did not attend college to learn their craft. Others are self-taught. Some took classes at local community colleges or art centres, while others took online photography courses. Daniela believes that education is very important and recommends choosing a course that will allow you to grow and practice your work.
NYIP’s online photography courses will introduce you to a variety of subjects while you explore the world of professional photography. You will learn about a variety of photographic genres as you take the Professional Photography course. This is to help you decide which career path you want to pursue – whether it’s weddings, nature photography, landscapes and wildlife, portraits or studio work. You will be completing photo projects throughout the course and submitting them online for review and evaluation by a professional. By the end of the course, you will have an extensive portfolio that you can share with clients.
The New York Institute of Photography can help you improve your photography skills and even prepare for business.
Read More: Take your photography to the next level like these NYIP Graduates.
What is the cost of photography training?
According to College Tuition, the average cost of a photography college in 2024 will be $21,950 per academic year.
NYIP’s online certificate course in photography is available for less than $1,000 with payment plans. It’s convenient and affordable.
This option allows you to study at home from the comforts of your own house while communicating with a team of real photography teachers.
Read More: What Can You Do as a Photographer? (Photography Careers Guide)
Start with NYIP
You can start an online photography class at NYIP at any time. Online courses do not have an official start date, class time or project deadline. You can create your schedule based on personal preferences. You can set your own pace.
If you are still unsure, call 1-800-583-1736 and speak to a representative from our Student Services Department. You can ask for more information.
