So you think you want a career in photography?
Well probably the best place to start would be to enrol on a photography course. It can not only provide you certification, but you will also gain knowledge and exposure that would otherwise be difficult to find. When you attend classes, you will learn from experienced professionals. The knowledge and experiences shared in such an environment can prove to be valuable in driving your career in the right direction.
But how can you choose the best photography school and courses for yourself? The following tips will help you make the right choice.
Program Duration
Determine your goals so that you can decide how long your program should be. There are photography courses that last years and then there are brief courses that can be completed within a few weeks. If you are a professional, all you may need is to attend a few classes to improve your knowledge or skills on a specific topic. Some schools offer highly accessible courses and there is no need to commit to several years of study. If certification is on top of your mind, then you should consider joining a longer program.
How much will it cost?
This starts by determining what your goals are and how much you can afford on your photography training. The costs can vary based on the duration of the program. It can also be different based on which school you choose. You can, however, get access to certain scholarships to make your education cheaper. It is not essential that the most expensive school can provide the best education and training. Do some research to compare the different schools. You should also contact other students to learn about different courses and institutions.
What niche should you focus on?
As someone aspiring to become a professional photographer, you must choose photography courses based on the niche you want to specialise in. It is easier to excel in a specific niche, when you target a specific field within photography, you can build your presence more effectively. However, choosing the right niche can be a challenge in itself.
Consider your interests when choosing your photography niche. Find out what you enjoy doing. If you don’t enjoy a niche, you will find it hard to excel in it. For example, landscape photography is more suited for photographers who have lots of patience. If you want quick results, it is not the niche you should train in. So look for something that you enjoy doing even if it means toiling for hours. Some of the most popular niches in photography training include the following:
- Stock photography
- Portraits
- Weddings
- Photojournalism
- Landscape
- Fashion
- Sports
- Fine art
- Families & children
- Nature & wildlife
- Travel
- Product
- Architecture
There are even more niches and you should do some research to find the one that interests you more.
So if you are going to choose photography course or a school, make sure to consider all these factors. Remember, what may be the best course for you may not be the same for another person. It all comes down to your goals and interests.