Professional Photography

Career Opportunities in Photography

Photographers apply skills and creativity – including an understanding of light, color and visual aesthetics – to produce images with digital and film cameras and equipment.

Career opportunities include advertising, journalism, studio and portrait photography, event photography and various types of commercial work.

Successful photographers may be self-employed or work for a variety of businesses or other organizations. Knowledge and skill in photography can also be helpful for graphic designers, art directors and similar occupations. 

Employment Outlook: 2016-2026

• The number of jobs for photographers is expected to decline, which means training and preparation are especially important in this field
• Jobs for art directors are expected to grow by 6.9%

These ten-year projections are calculated by California's Employment Development Department, which collects data about the state's workforce and economic trends.

Studying Photography at De Anza

De Anza offers a certificate and degree in professional photography as well as a degree in photographic arts. The Photography Department maintains a fully operating wet darkroom and professionally equipped digital labs.

Photography courses focus on both visual communication and principles of image control and craft. Students develop the technical, critical and practical skills required to succeed in this constantly challenging and changing medium.

Students are given the opportunity to apply new skills to real and simulated situations found in photographic careers.

De Anza photography graduates have made their careers in advertising, editorial work, photo illustration, fashion, architecture and product photography. 

Photographic Arts

• Associate in Arts - Photographic Arts (Film and Digital)Details for Associate in Arts - Photographic Arts (Film and Digital)

  This A.A. degree provides a comprehensive foundation in contemporary and traditional methods of photography. Digital imaging, traditional processing and printing, alternative processes, lighting, history and the visual language of photography are studied. Emphasis is on personal expression through creative process and technical excellence.

  Degree Requirements

  View in Catalog

Professional Photography

• Certificate of Achievement - Professional Photography (Film and Digital)Details for Certificate of Achievement - Professional Photography (Film and Digital)

  This Certificate of Achievement provides a foundation in the basics of photography including digital imaging, traditional processing and printing, and lighting. It also recognizes the importance of personal expression and the use of photography as a visual language. Students wishing to work in the industry, transfer, or complete an A.A. degree in Professional Photography should consider completing this certificate.

  Degree Requirements

  View in Catalog

• Associate in Arts - Professional Photography (Film and Digital)Details for Associate in Arts - Professional Photography (Film and Digital)

  This A.A. degree program provides a comprehensive foundation in contemporary and traditional methods of photography. Digital imaging, processing and printing, lighting, history, business practices, and the visual language of photography are studied. Emphasis is on the photography techniques appropriate for those entering the industry today.

  Degree Requirements

  View in Catalog

In addition to the programs listed above, you may be able to apply courses in this department toward General Education requirements.

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