Photography covers a broad spectrum of specializations. There are so many subjects to photograph obvious to us all, just by looking out our window. A photographer appreciates the beauty of a fresh fallen snow, or perhaps, a scene of horses grazing in a field. There are many life moments in which people wish to capture such as, an engagement, a wedding or the excitement of a little one on the way. Photographs capture a moment in time that we can never get back, therefore, family photos are treasures that we all enjoy and can pass down from generation to generation.
Although family portraits are the most common type of photography, there are other concentrations that you may want to consider while earning an online Bachelor’s degree in Photography. Each area of specialization may require a specific technique or equipment to capture, so by choosing a specific field, you can hone your skills to be the best in your area of expertise.
Do you have a specific interest? What subject are you truly passionate about? Is there something, in particular, that you would love to photograph? Most photographers, at least as beginners, will take a job for the experience and for the money, however, there will come a time when you must follow your dreams and perhaps only shoot the subjects that really interest you. If you are not a very patient person, photographing babies and young children probably won’t be for you. If you don’t enjoy working with the occasional bridezilla, you may want to stay away from booking weddings. However, if you love the openness of shooting landscapes and traveling, perhaps that should be your specialty. If you enjoy journalism, in addition to photography, a photojournalism career may be for you.
Listed here are a few areas of specialization you may want to consider, however, these programs may vary from school to school, so, of course, you will need to find the right online school to meet your specific needs. The portrait photographer enjoys taking pictures of people of all ages, ranging from babies to senior citizens. They often photograph weddings and other memorable events. At times, a portrait photographer will work in their own studio in which families will come to them, however, some travel is required for other situations such as, school day photos, conventions and other various life-style shoots. Fine art photographers learn how to bring out a person’s emotions and mood by use of light and color and may sell their photos as art.
As a commercial and industrial photographer, you will need to know how to effectively use photography in advertising, promotions and marketing. They often shoot consumer goods, buildings or scenery to create a buzz, so the customer will buy or remember a product, service or destination. These types of pictures are often found in books, magazines and on websites.
A documentary photographer, or a photojournalist, is tasked with photographing people, current events or places, in hopes of conveying a story to the public by way of newspaper, television, magazines or websites. They often work for local news outlets and may need to travel to get to a breaking story.
Scientific research and development photographers are needed to take photos of scientific procedures, pictures of cells or surgery techniques, in addition to, aerospace products or even our solar system. In the field of medicine, medical products distributors and diagnostic laboratories need photographers, as well.
In addition, photographers can work in a variety of places, such as, within a corporation, art studio or in a marketing and advertising firm, as well as, by freelance. Most freelance photographers find assignments by networking and by recommendations.
If you would like to learn more about this career, please see our Top Online Schools for Photography Degree Programs.