Becoming a Professional Photographer
Becoming a professional photographer like can be one of the best careers for creative individuals. However, there are many factors you should consider before jumping in. This career path requires a College degree. It's also very competitive. However, it's not impossible to find a job in this industry. While the pay may not be as high as in some other jobs, the job outlook is very good. To become a professional photographer, you will need to have a passion for art and photography. Check out Kenna Shea Photography to learn more.
Career path
Although a degree in photography isn't required to become a professional photographer, it is beneficial. This degree provides hands-on training with photography techniques and equipment. Professional photographers also need to build a portfolio to promote their skills. For this, it is beneficial to take pictures of friends, outdoor scenes, and other people. In addition, they should seek out freelance photo shoots and attend photography events. A career as a professional photographer requires dedication and perseverance.
The skills needed to become a professional photographer are numerous and varied. They must be proficient with various types of photo editing software, including Adobe Lightroom and the Creative Suite. These programs will help photographers manipulate photos so they look perfect. Also, photographers should be people-oriented because they will deal with many different personalities on a daily basis. They should also be able to deal with difficult clients. They must be able to deliver perfection in every shot.
College degrees required
There are some roles in photography that require a college degree, including photojournalism, industrial photography, and scientific photography. While many aspiring photographers don't pursue a degree, college-level courses are common at community colleges and trade and technical schools. Students can pursue certificates, associate's degrees, and bachelor's degrees. These programs typically offer two or four-year degrees in photography. Further education may lead to more career opportunities in the field.
Although a college degree is not necessary for becoming a professional photographer, it can be useful. While natural talent can take you a long way in this career, it's still necessary to learn new concepts and techniques. Taking formal photography courses can help you to sharpen your craft and improve your business. A college degree can also open doors for higher earning potential. Some photographers make a living self-taught, while others are certified and have earned master's degrees.
Cost of education
An associate's degree in photography costs approximately $3,000 per year. There are also continuing education options. Obtaining the right equipment is important for a professional performance, and costs can range from several hundred dollars to two thousand dollars for a camera and lens. A four-year degree in photography is recommended for those who want to pursue a career in photojournalism or documentary photography. However, if you're planning to pursue a hobby, an associate's degree may not be for you.
Some schools offer online programs for photography majors. These programs may cost less than attending an on-campus school. Scholarships may be available from private organizations, or from state grants. In-state schools tend to charge less than out-of-state schools, though an urban university will often be more expensive. Online programs typically take less time to complete, and students can receive in-state tuition. Also, scholarships and financial aid are often available to online students, so you can earn your degree while working.
Job outlook
The job outlook for professional photographers is relatively positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for photographers is expected to increase by 17% from 2016 to 2030. The increase is primarily attributed to an increase in new job opportunities, but self-employed photographers will also continue to see positive growth. Those who specialize in portraiture and commercial photography will find themselves in high demand. However, competition for these jobs will be fierce.
According to the BLS, there were approximately 139,500 photographers working in the United States in 2010, making an average annual salary of $36,330. That number was down from 152,000 in 2008. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the field will add 17,500 new jobs between 2010 and 2020, a growth rate of 13%. This growth rate is faster than average for all occupations. But the field has been impacted by the recession, and it can be challenging to find employment in the current climate.