Individuals interested in photography as a career or as a hobby may be interested in pursuing a course of program to best suit their needs. Photography courses can be found at colleges, universities, adult education centers, and art schools located all over the country. Students can learn how to take better pictures and use tricks that professional photographers employers.
Typical Photography Courses
Some of the most popular courses found at adult education centers are those that specialize in photography. Students in these courses can learn from professional photographers about basic and advanced photography techniques. Some of the courses that might be offered include:
- The Art of Photography
- Turn Your Photos into DVD Movies
- Photography Classes for the Aspiring Professional
- Digital Cameras and Photography for Beginners
- Digital Photo Editing
Individuals that choose to pursue a career as a photographer rather than just taking courses as a hobby may wish to pursue a professional preparation program. These programs will include coursework in the business of photography and marketing as well as actual techniques. Courses that a student might be required to take include:
- Commercial Photography
- Digital Imaging Workflow
- Tools and Techniques of Digital Imaging
- Digital Foundations
- Studio Layout and Design
- Packaging and Allied Products
- Portrait Photography
- Portfolio Preparation
- Digital Capture
- Studio Operations
Career Outlook for Photographers
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment opportunities for photographers are expected to grow through 2014 by 9% to 17%. Portrait and commercial photography are expected to be the greatest area of growth.
Average Salary for Photographers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for professional photographers was $29,770 in 2009. The top 10% of professional photographers can make over $63,000 a year. However, this salary will be commensurate with experience and the region in which the photographer works.