Essential Information
The two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program introduces concepts of lighting, exposure, image manipulation, color balance and resolution. Students get hands-on experience using digital photography software, and they explore specialized kinds of digital photography, such as portrait or commercial photography. Business aspects of the field are also covered.
Another option for aspiring photographers is a two-year Associate of Science (A.S.) in Photography program that includes coursework in digital photography. In an A.S. program, students usually learn about core principles in photography, such as color, composition, lighting, and exposure with training in print and digital photography. Students also learn how to use photo-editing software. Core requirements include classes in social sciences, natural sciences and math.
For both programs, students are required to have their own camera, and participate in photography labs. Many associate degree programs require that applicants have a high school diploma or the equivalent, but some schools will consider applicants with neither. If applicants haven't already completed some college-level English or math coursework or taken a standardized college entrance exam like the SAT, academic assessment testing may be required.
Associate's Degrees in Photography or Digital Photography
The curriculum for both degree programs consists of general education classes like English, math and science, along with a series of required classes in digital photography and some electives in the field. Students learn how to create unique photos by using a variety of techniques, as well as gain an understanding of the industry as a whole. They also learn how to showcase their abilities and services to potential clients. Courses include:
- Black and white photography
- Photojournalism
- Product, commercial and portrait photography
- Branding and marketing in photography
- Computer graphic art
- 2-dimensional computer design
Popular Career Options
Graduates have the necessary qualifications to apply for entry-level jobs at media companies, production companies, ad agencies, publishers or photography labs. Typical job titles include:
- Studio manager
- Photographer's assistant
- Digital re-toucher
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
Employment of photographers, in general, is expected to decline 4% between 2019 and 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many photographers are self-employed or freelance photographers. In 2020, the BLS reported that approximately 41,600 people were employed as photographers; they earned a median annual salary of $41,280.
Continuing Education Information
Students who would like to continue to advance their technical and artistic skills in digital photography can acquire a bachelor's or master's degree in photography. A Bachelor of Science in Photography or Bachelor of Science in Visual Communications are two types of degrees offered by colleges and universities. Some schools have degree programs that can be completed online. After earning a bachelor's degree, students can go to obtain a Master of Digital Photography or Master of Fine Arts in Photography.
In an A.S. program in photography or an A.A.S. program in digital photography, students hone their understanding of lighting, color balance and photo-editing, creating a portfolio of their work in the process. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the industry, or they can pursue bachelor's degrees in a related field in order to advance their careers.
