In general, a person interested in becoming a photographer does not need to obtain any photography qualifications; instead, he or she can simply learn the necessary skills on their own. Although this is undoubtedly the more difficult path to becoming a photographer, many people prefer to obtain photographer qualifications that will teach them the skills and techniques more quickly and efficiently. Earning a college diploma is one way to obtain the necessary credentials; some colleges and universities offer such degrees. Some photography schools also offer certificate programs, which allow aspiring photographers to further their education.
Work experience, more than any other photographer qualification, is perhaps the best way to build one’s credentials. A photography apprenticeship is one way to gain valuable work experience and obtain qualifications that will be respected by both potential employers and clients. During an apprenticeship, the photographer will work with a more experienced professional photographer who will be able to teach them the skills they need to succeed in the field. The apprentice could work as a photo assistant, assisting with set-up and tear-down of equipment, as well as adjusting it during a shoot; he or she could also work as a second shooter at a wedding or other large event.
Obtaining a college diploma, on the other hand, adds legitimacy to a photographer’s credentials. Associate’s degrees are two-year programs that teach the fundamentals of photography or graphic design to students. Bachelor’s degrees are four-year degrees that go beyond the fundamentals and teach students advanced skills that will be useful in their professional photography careers. Master’s degrees in photography are possible, but they are not as common as associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in photography.
Photographer qualifications can also be obtained through a training program, which usually results in a professional certificate or credential. Depending on the complexity of the topic and the prestige of the qualification, these training programs can last anywhere from one day to several months. A photographer might enroll in such a program to improve his or her photography skills, learn more about a new topic in photography, or even learn more about something completely unrelated to photography. Business programs, for example, can help photographers learn how to set up and run a successful business, as well as how to market it.