Capture the World Through Your Lens: Colleges with Robust Photography Programs
Who hasn’t been fascinated by the transformative power of photography — its ability to freeze moments in time, evoke strong emotions, and document the world around us? If you have a keen eye for visual storytelling and a drive to capture the beautiful, raw, poignant, and uncomfortable, check out our listing of the best colleges and universities offering top-ranked photography programs designed to equip you with the technical skills and artistic vision to become a master photographer.
More than a Snapshot
Photography isn’t simply pointing a camera and clicking a button. It blends art and science and requires a deep understanding of light, composition, exposure, and digital editing techniques. When you’re pursuing a B.A. in photography, you learn about:
- Digital photography fundamentals, from camera operation and lens selection to exposure settings, digital workflow, framing a shot, and much more.
- Lighting techniques, like how to manipulate light to create mood, drama, and dimension in your images.
- Fine art photography, to develop your artistic vision, experiment with different photographic styles, genres, and creative approaches to capturing the world around you.
Many photography programs offer opportunities to:
- Specialize by exploring specific areas or concentrations like portraiture, photojournalism, fashion photography, commercial photography, or documentary photography.
- Gain practical experience, developing your skills through hands-on studio courses, shooting assignments, and portfolio development workshops.
Intern with professional photographers, studios, or media outlets. - Study abroad to broaden your perspectives, work on site-specific projects, learn from local photographers, and experience unique photographic environments.
Become a Visual Storyteller
A B.A. in photography prepares you to pursue a wide range of exciting careers in the visual arts field:
- Commercial, portrait, fashion, or fine art photographer
- Photojournalist
- Aerial or drone photographer
- Medical or forensic photographer
Many photography graduates also pursue further education, like a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in photography, to further refine and specialize their skills.
We also invite you to check out our latest Your Future in the Arts publication for inspiration.
