School???

[jc77]

Have any of you gone to school for photography or are you self taught? Which schools would you recomend?

[cyclohexane]

I am finishing up in the undergraduate program of fine arts at UCLA, focusing on photography.

Honestly, I've learned more assisting working photographers and working as a photojournalist for the student paper.

[Rodeoshooter]

Jamie,

Good to see you on the Camel. I am putting on a Photographer's Clinic in April that would be good for you to attend. Check out my rodeo website for more information or call me.

Talk to you later.

[Joves]

Me I started when I was 9 years old when my grandfather gave me one of his old 120 cameras. He gave me some instructions and, I was off to learn. I was lucky though as my family has many photographers in it. I have one aunt who taught photography at the University of Michigan and, another who has shot boat races for years from aircraft so, I could always get help when needed. If I decide to get into video Im set too because my cousin shoots for the History Channel as a free lancer and, my uncle shoots documentaries. I think that we have some kind of camera gene in our family.

[Chromenut]

I took a correspondence course from the Academy of Art Institute. Found it extremely helpful in teaching me the correct habits of good photography. So many bad habits come from growing up with a PAS camera in your hand. But like many others have said here, my experiences here, and in the field with professionals, was invaluable in learning specifics about photography. I'm still learning, 48 years later....

[Mike_PEAT]

I learned the basics from my mother who had her own darkroom when she was younger. Admittedly while I did learn little things over the decades (using many different camera formats including large format 20"x30" sheet film), I didn't learn as much as I did once I dropped film and fully embraced digital (since I didn't need to worry about processing costs anymore and could take 80 shots using different settings for free), and had the time to read through many books and watch videos from different sources.

The only class (workshop) I took recently was a fine art nude class, only because I was too nervous to approach a model and ask her to pose nude for me. I've attended a few other workshops only to give me opportunities that I don't have in ordinary life.

Now if you want the piece of paper that says you've been taught, or plan to apply for a photography job in your future go for the classes.

Otherwise I suggest the video/CD-Rom/book route (if you're self-learning). Many times a class can go so fast it can go over your head. Also join a camera club that offers workshops and mentoring.

BTW if you are going the job route suggest you check out a book on photography careers like:


"Career Opportunities in Photography" by George Gilbert:
Grade 9 Up–This is a thorough, succinct resource. Medical, travel, commercial, and portrait photography all have their own sections. Specific job titles and positions are listed with precise profiles that detail necessary education and experience, professional salaries, and employment prospects. An appendix includes lists of the associate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees needed for the various positions, with contact information for institutions across the United States that offer these programs."


Another book (though I can't comment on this one), "Creative Careers in Photography: Making a Living With or Without a Camera" by Michal Heron:
"Find the right job in photography
* Examines dozens of career possibilities--many that don’t require a camera
* Self-assessment tools to pinpoint the perfect job, plus school and organization listings

[Douglas]

Self taught with input from others.

[jc77]

I have been primarily self taught with alot of input from people on forums and such through the years. I feel as if I have a lot of "holes" though.. lol
Al, I will check that out and do everything I can to attend.. It'd be great to see you again!

[moxi1]

Hi all,

I would have liked to join a photography school in my younger years, but a demanding day-job left me tooo tired to do schooling in the evening.

My learning therefore came by seeing and trying!
Magazines, books, other people - and sites like the camel, all have a lot of value, one just has to have an open mind and try out anything at least once.

However it all depends what you are intending to do with your photography. If you don't want to take photography further than a hobby and give it time, you certainly will gradually improve your skills.
If you are spoiling the fun of your hobby and getting into the stressful world of photographic business - then you have to find the best training available.

Cheers Moxi1