Becoming a photographer can be achieved through self-learning or obtaining qualifications such as a university degree or certificate program. Professional experience, such as an apprenticeship, is also valuable. Training programs and business courses can also improve skills and credentials.
In general, a person interested in becoming a photographer does not necessarily need to obtain photographer qualifications; he or she can simply learn the skills needed to become a photographer on their own. This is definitely the toughest path to becoming a photographer, however many people choose to pursue photographer qualifications that will teach you the skills and techniques faster and more efficiently. Obtaining a university degree is certainly one way to gain the appropriate qualifications; some colleges and universities will offer such degrees. Some photography schools also offer certificate programs that will allow a potential photographer to build their credentials.
More than any education photographer qualification, professional experience is perhaps the best way to build credentials. A photography apprenticeship is a way to gain valuable work experience that will give the photographer skills that will be respected by potential employers and clients. During an apprenticeship, the photographer works with a more experienced professional photographer who can teach the skills needed to succeed in the field. The apprentice can act as a photography assistant, setting up and taking down the equipment, or even adjusting it during a shoot; he or she can also act as a second shooter at a wedding or other big event.
Of course, earning a college degree goes a long way toward adding legitimacy to photographer qualifications. Associate degrees are two-year degrees that teach a student the basics of photography or graphic design. Bachelor’s degrees are four years that go beyond the basics and teach the student advanced skills that will be useful during a career as a professional photographer. Masters in photography may be available, although they are not as common as associate and bachelor’s degrees.
It is also possible to undertake a training program to build photographer qualifications, often resulting in a professional certificate or credential. These training programs can range from one day to several months, depending on the complexity of the topic and the prestige of the qualification. A photographer may choose to undergo a training program to improve their skills in the field, learn more about a new topic in photography, or even an unrelated topic. Business programs, for example, are useful for educating photographers how to set up and run a business effectively, as well as how to market it.
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