Are you able to create visual representations of personal or cultural expression, or tell stories through photography? Can you take a picture that truly is worth a thousand words? Graduate studies in photography could help you define your visual talents and refine your mastery of techniques, materials and concepts.
Master's degrees in photography vary in emphasis. You may focus on the creation, exhibition and sale of photographs as art, or you can zoom in on practical uses for photography like journalism, film, graphic design, advertising, fashion and other commercial applications.
Exploring master's degrees in photography
Potential coursework reflects your concentration and covers digital and traditional photography as well as aesthetic theory, color management, editorial photography and photo illustration. Typical subjects include these:
- Business practices and studio management
- Digital, advertising and new media design
- Documentary production
- Emerging photography technologies and techniques
- Historical and contemporary photography
Seminars and studio classes predominate, with discussions of issues and trends in contemporary fine art. Students create original photographic work that is critiqued by professors or professionals.
Photography career outlook and salaries
Photography careers include artist, photojournalist, documentary film maker and graphic designer. For photographers, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects average employment growth of 13 percent from 2010 through 2020; however, opportunities will be limited in certain areas such as news photography for print media. Here are median annual salaries in 2010 reported by the BLS for photography-related careers:
- Film/video editor & camera operator: $45,490
- Graphic designer: $43,500
- Photographer: $29,130
- Producer/director: $68,440
Competition for jobs is expected to increase as many businesses opt to use freelance rather than in-house photographers. The BLS notes that success could require a variety of talents and high-tech skills in picture editing and digital video. Some schools recommend proficiency in using Apple's Macintosh applications for those in the creative professions.
Options in photography
You can continue your education beyond your master's degree with a Doctor of Philosophy in Fine Arts. With this background, you could teach at the university level or seek high-level responsibilities as a gallery owner or museum curator.
Online degree programs allow you to benefit from the photographic art scene in major cities like New York City without having to move there. However, some programs do have a residential component. Explore advanced studies in photography and find that point where talent, visual aesthetics and technology meet.
Are you able to create visual representations of personal or cultural expression, or tell stories through photography? Can you take a picture that truly is worth a thousand words? Graduate studies in photography could help you define your visual talents and refine your mastery of techniques, materials and concepts.
Master's degrees in photography vary in emphasis. You may focus on the creation, exhibition and sale of photographs as art, or you can zoom in on practical uses for photography like journalism, film, graphic design, advertising, fashion and other commercial applications.
Exploring master's degrees in photography
Potential coursework reflects your concentration and covers digital and traditional photography as well as aesthetic theory, color management, editorial photography and photo illustration. Typical subjects include these:
- Business practices and studio management
- Digital, advertising and …
