Just Shoot Me
In the world of commercial photography, competition can be a killer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, half of all professional photographers were self-employed in 2004--a higher proportion than in other occupations. With so many shutterbugs competing for few salaried positions, you'll need an edge to stay competitive. If you've got an eye for color and design, a degree in photography could provide you with the training you'll need to get ahead in a business where the rule is shoot first and ask questions later.
Degrees in Commercial Photography
A degree in commercial photography will prepare you to navigate the modern photographer's world. Introductory courses provide training in camera basics like shutter speed, lenses, and film. Other courses teach darkroom techniques for printing black and white and color photos. With the advent of digital photography, many programs now offer courses in digital techniques and software programs.
In a profession that relies so heavily on contracts and freelance work, you, the photographer, will also need to know how to market and sell yourself to corporate clients, other businesspeople, and the public. Many degree programs in commercial photography offer basic business courses in addition to training in photographic techniques.
With your education under your belt, you'll be ready to start submitting portfolios of your work to corporate and other commercial clients. If you manage to land a salaried position as a commercial photographer, you could earn as much as $54,000 a year, placing your work in books, reports, magazines, and catalogues. Want to turn your eye for colors, contrasts, and design into a career? Earn a degree in commercial photography today.
Source
"Photographers," U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
