Certificate in Photography

Photographers take pictures of people, places or events or virtually anything that takes their fancy. Some of these professionals are employed with advertising agencies while others work for newspapers, photographic services and directory publishers. If you want to become a photographer, earning a certification in photography may help you build up your skills required to launch a career in this field. Job outlook for professional photographers looks good with expected employment growth from 2012 – 2022 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Both campus-based and online schools offer certificate programs in photography and can help you become a photographer.

Featured Programs

Certificate in Photography
The certificate in photography is a non-degree courses that instruct students in photographic techniques. These programs can be useful for those who want to become photographers as well as the existing photographers who seek to advance their skills to find more work opportunities. Students in these programs also learn how to use equipment and achieve desired results or improve the visual appearance of the images with the help of photo-editing software.

Photography certificates cover technical aspects of taking photographs and handling cameras. Students may also study photography theory and photography history among other areas of study. The curriculum may include instruction in photographic design and composition as well. Specialized classes may provide instruction in visual journalism, advertising and commercial photography, fashion photography, wedding photography and fine art photography.

Admissions Requirements
A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required to enroll in the online photography degree programs. In addition, students may have to show their work portfolioand meet other requirement that may vary by school. 

Online Certificate in Photography
There are a number of schools that offer the photography certificate courses in online format. Those who want to get into this field but cannot attend programs offered at campus-based schools can consider the online option and learn the art of photography without attending classes physically. The online certificate programs also provide students with the flexibility of studying at their individual schedule and completing a course at their own pace. Professional photographers who are already working and want to upgrade their knowledge or gain additional skills can enroll in the online certificate programs that would allow them to earn vital credentials without making major adjustments to their current job tenure.

Employment Opportunities
As the demand for professional photographers is expected to increase in the coming years, earning a certificate or degree in this field can be a suitable choice. Once you earn a certificate, you can qualify for applying job opportunities in ad agencies, retail trade, publishing and TV broadcasting. Opportunities are also available in newspapers, colleges, universities and professional schools.

Photographers may choose to specialize in a particular field such as scientific photography, commercial photography, news photography and more. They must create electronic portfolios or have a website to display their work to potential clients or employers.

The median hourly wage for photographers in 2012 was $13.70 (BLS). Income may vary by location, specialty and experience among other factors. Candidates who want to improve their prospects should acquire skills in photo editing and digital video capturing.