Phtotography School or no Photography School?

[jess.thayer]

So i have been contemplating going back to school to finish my degree in photography. I have already completed 2 years at a university, but took a year off because i still had no idea what i wanted to pursue. But i am not quite sure if taking photography classes would really benefit at all. I took quite a few art classes in college and it always seemed to be self explanatory theories to me... more like something i could find online myself for free.

I have considered getting a degree in business management or marketing. But I have decided with my lifestyle as of now, that i would like to be a photographer. I'm not sure as of yet how i will make it work, but i feel like with enough advertising it will be possible once i obtain the skills i need to be more professional.

My husband is in the air force so we will be moving every few years, so this will make it hard for me to get my name out and keep it out.

I guess i have a lot to think about! But mainly i want to know if photography classes are worth it, or if i could learn the same concepts with my own research.

 

[analog.universe]

I think you are the only person that can answer that question. Some people really benefit from organized instruction, and others really benefit from figuring things out on their own. What exactly do you intend to get out of the classes?

 

[2WheelPhoto]

I'm not in the photo business, nor do I want to change professions.

However, I'll be starting school in September at the local university for the sake of good times and better pics

 

[Big Mike]

I have considered getting a degree in business management or marketing. But I have decided with my lifestyle as of now, that i would like to be a photographer.

If you want to be a photographer (usually running your own business) then go for the business degree. Most photographers fail (as a business) because they lack the business skills, not because they lack the photography skills.

If you just want to take pictures and have the latest, coolest camera's & lenses...then go to medical school.

 

[jess.thayer]

Hahaha yea no medical school here! Too much stress for me, i did start out college with going into pre-pharmacy. Too much dedication to a profession i was seeking just to make money. Id rather have more fun in my life! haha

Yea i also feel the business degree will help out a lot, especially since i will need to know everything i can to have a moving photography business. I will most likely have to find a job with the business degree to make ends meet. Most of my decision to go back to school is because i don't want to disappoint my parents.

Now, should i get an associates or bachelors? Im half way to bachelors credit wise, but class wise i have only taken one business class, and that was business law. Which i doubt will transfer once i get stationed somewhere with my husband. Im not sure what i could use my previous classes towards because i have pretty much dappled in everything possible... i have been very indecisive. I was just contemplating how odd it is that making the decision to marry my husband was easy, while deciding what to do with my life is not easy at all! Really what i want to get out of my life is travel, having a little family, and just enjoying life with as little stress as possible.

 

[metro2]

What do your parents want you to do?
I think an engineering degree of some type is one of the best kinds. Respected across a broad range of industry sectors.

 

[jess.thayer]

eh my parents want me in the medical field. All they every suggest it seems. Except i can't stand seeing people suffering, it would make my life miserable.

 

[photocist]

Photography school would be a waste of money and time.

If you really want to take photography classes, look at your community college.

 

[The_Traveler]

Spend the time and the money on equipment and practicing rather than school

My primary care physician bought the top of the line Canon for a 2 week trip to Africa and now has the world's most expensive P&S