What it’s about:

The major in photography is for students interested in the art of communicating information, ideas, moods, and feelings through photographic images. You gain a broad background in both the technical and the aesthetic aspects of photography.

What the study of this major is like:

As a photography major, you begin by exploring the fundamentals of design, from, color, and composition. You learn about the nature of light and analyse how three-dimensional space is changed into two-dimensional images.  In an introductory courses, you study camera operation and controls (such as focus, shutter speed, and aperture setting) and their effects on photographic images; you also learn about types of cameras; digital,35 mm, medium format, and large format field cameras that produce single negatives. You discuss contemporary issues in photography, as well as photographic history. Critiques (in which you evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a photograph) are an essential part of your learning process.

In lower-level photography courses, your assignments center on depicting specific ideas or situation. As you progress through the major, you concentrate more on your own ideas of what to depict. You create portfolios (a group of photographs on a theme) and study many approaches to photography, such as studio techniques, colour, digital applications, and alternative processes. Taking courses in others arts, such as drawing, sculpture, and painting, can enrich your work. If you are interested in documentary photography or photojournalism, you might take courses in journalism, English, and anthropology. Throughout your studies, you evaluate your strengths and interests in relation to possible career. A final portfolio that showcases your work is the capstone to almost every degree program.

Most photography programs try to balance the technical and the creative aspect of the art. Programs often specialize in one or two areas of photography; fine arts and journalism are the most common. (such courses may also be offered in conjunction with broader art or journalism programs.

The biggest issue facing photography programs is the tension between traditional, “wet” darkroom practice and of the programs you consider. Also, some colleges emphasis the practical, commercial aspects of photography; these programs train you to concentrate on meeting the demands of clients. Other programs, which are based in the fine arts, encourage you to express your personal point of view. Degree programs can range from two year associate degrees to four-year Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees, each with its own emphasis.

Career options and trends:

Photojournalist; fine art photographer; freelance photographer; commercial or industrial photographer; technical or medical photographer; digital images technician; wedding photographer; portrait photographer; animator; manager of a photo lab.

Mast photographers are either working freelance or running their own business and studios; salaried jobs are increasingly hard to find. Competition is keen, especially for photojournalist and commercial photographers. Fine arts photographers face the same challenge as other artist: how to attract audience who favour their particular type of work. In all areas, good business sense, creative talent, and technological savvy are necessary ingredients for success.

Source: CollegeBoard 2012 Book of Majors