Building a Career in Photography: Degree, Diploma, or Pure Experience?
How does one get started as a professional photographer? Do you need a certificate, diploma, or a degree to achieve your goals? The straightforward answer is noyou do not strictly need formal education to become a professional photographer. However, a bit of formal training can be beneficial. Let's explore how to build a career in photography with or without a degree and how to showcase your work to potential clients.
The Value of Formal Training
I embarked on formal training in professional commercial photography nearly 50 years ago. Despite my mentors' warnings, I eventually became a working professional and even purchased a studio from a retiring photographer. My degree prepared me to learn, but it didn't teach me how to be a competent photographer from a book, in a classroom, or through a course.
The legendary Henri Cartier-Bresson famously said, "'Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst.' He meant that you must make a lot of mistakes to truly understand what you're doing. Embarking on this journey, I was prepared to dip a tentative toe into the freelancing world, where many photographers begin their careers today.
Starting Your Photographic Journey
To start, you need a business license and a portfolio to showcase your work. Hang out a shingle and visit potential clients, handing out your business cards. The initial stages are challenging; you're likely not yet proficient, and your early work may not align with client needs. You may need to underbid competitors for the initial projects, but that's okay as long as you deliver quality work and impress your clients. Add these projects to your portfolio to demonstrate your capabilities to other potential clients.
The Role of Education in Photography
While formal education is not a strict necessity, it can provide valuable insights and knowledge. My classes were beneficial, and I applied what I learned. Yet, there are photographers making a living today who never took a single classroom course. The internet has revolutionized the landscape, allowing photographers to acquire the education they need without leaving their homes. Today, you can learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it an increasingly accessible option.
Online Learning Platforms
Platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer a myriad of courses on photography. From basics in camera operation to advanced techniques, these platforms cater to photographers at all levels. For instance, you can learn about exposure settings, composition, and editing. You can also engage with a global community of learners and receive feedback on your work.
Experience as the Ultimate Teacher
The irrefutable truth is that experience is the ultimate teacher in photography. Whether you pursued a degree, attended a course, or learned through online tutorials, hands-on experience is essential. My mentors emphasized that I could only truly learn to be a photographer through practice, experimentation, and learning from my mistakes.
Practical Steps to Build Your Photography Skills
1. **Get your gear**: Invest in a high-quality camera and lenses. Understanding how to use your gear is crucial. 2. **Take thousands of photos**: Practice, practice, practice. Don't be discouraged by initial results. Use them to refine your skills. 3. **Seek critique and feedback**: Join photography forums and workshops. Share your work and learn from others. 4. **Build a portfolio**: As you grow, curate a portfolio that showcases your diverse skills and specialties.
Getting Noticed
Once you have a solid portfolio, the key is to showcase your work. Use social media platforms, blogs, and even Instagram to gain visibility. Leverage your network and attend industry events to connect with potential clients. Remember, consistency is key. Keep producing quality work, and your reputation will grow.
In conclusion, while a degree or diploma is not strictly necessary to build a career in photography, it can be incredibly beneficial. Formal education complements hands-on experience, providing a well-rounded foundation. Embrace the power of online learning and immerse yourself in the world of photography. With dedication and persistence, you can build a thriving career and gain the recognition you deserve.