Photography is an interesting field because it is the perfect blend of science and art. If you have a passion for photography and want to learn how to turn this into a career, it's recommended to hone your skills at one of the various photography schools out there. The selection process for the right school depends on a variety of factors, including your career goals, your lifestyle, financial situation, and the time you have to commit to a program. It's best to take all of these into consideration before you make any decisions, and research all of your options carefully in order to find the best fit.
One of the first things to think about is location when you are comparing the best photography schools. You can ask yourself if you are willing to move to a new city to attend a prestigious school, or if you would prefer to stay with your friends and family and take courses closer to home. Some of the best schools now offer online courses, which is a great way to brush up on your skills without having to go through a lengthy commute to get to campus. Many schools will allow you to combine online coursework with in-person practice, so that you get the best of both worlds.
Another factor to think about is the type of career path that you are interested in. Technology now plays a large role in the commercial photography industry, so if this is something you are interested in, the best photography schools for your needs would probably have an emphasis on learning computer programs. You should learn how to use the latest photo retouching programs, for example, to get the right filters and look to craft the perfect shot. The type of photography that you are interested in will also dictate different curriculums. Some different areas of concentration to look at include fine art photography, fashion photography, and portrait photography, for example.
It's also helpful to look at photography school rankings, to see where different programs stand in terms of reputation. Take note of the faculty, and try to choose photography schools with classes taught by working professionals in the area you are most interested in. Another feature of some of the best art and photography schools is an on-site art gallery or other area where you can showcase your work. Searching online and viewing course catalogs can get you started in the right direction to improve your skills and grow as a photographer.