What Does a Photographer Do?

Photographers are visual storytellers who create compelling imagery across industries like advertising, journalism, fashion, and art. Depending on your focus, you might find yourself working in a studio, on location, or behind the scenes at a magazine or museum. 

Professional photographers often wear many hats—shooting, editing, directing, curating, or managing their own businesses. As the creative world becomes more image-driven, demand for skilled, versatile photographers continues to grow. 

Do You Need a Degree to Be a Photographer?

While not required, a photography degree offers structure, resources, and mentorship that can be difficult to access on your own. You’ll get time to explore both digital and film photography, dive into editing and studio lighting, and build a professional portfolio. 

Many programs also emphasize writing about your work, understanding the ethics of representation, and learning how to present and exhibit your images—all essential for building a career in visual media. 

What Will You Learn in Photography School?

Photography programs typically combine studio work with technical instruction and critical theory. You’ll gain experience in: 

  • Digital photography and editing 
  • Studio and natural lighting 
  • Film photography and darkroom processes 
  • Visual storytelling and narrative development 
  • Photobook and exhibition design 
  • Multimedia and mixed-media approaches 
  • Critique and portfolio refinement 

You’ll also learn how to write artist statements, apply for grants, and navigate the creative job market. 

What Kind of Photography Can You Explore?

Photography is a flexible medium that allows for many specializations. Some of the most common areas of focus include: 

  • Commercial photography: Working with brands, products, or advertising agencies 
  • Fashion photography: Shooting editorial and campaign content in studio or on location 
  • Photojournalism: Capturing real-world events with accuracy and intention 
  • Fine art photography: Creating conceptual, often gallery-based work 
  • Portrait and event photography: Documenting people and milestones 
  • Experimental and film-based photography: Exploring analog techniques or installation-based work 

Many photographers blend genres or move between them as their interests evolve. 

What Classes Will You Take?

While each program is different, here are some examples of common courses: 

  • Digital Imaging 
  • Studio Lighting 
  • Documentary and Street Photography 
  • History of Photography 
  • Fashion Editorial Photography 
  • Professional Practices 
  • Visual Literacy 
  • Senior Capstone or Thesis 

Upper-level courses often focus on developing a cohesive body of work and preparing it for exhibition or publication. 

What Can You Do With a Photography Degree?

A degree in photography opens doors across creative industries. Career paths include: 

  • Commercial photographer 
  • Fashion photographer 
  • Photojournalist 
  • Fine artist 
  • Creative director 
  • Visual content creator 
  • Studio manager 
  • Gallery or museum professional 

Graduates work in print, digital media, fine arts, and creative consulting—or start their own businesses and studios. 

Creative Cities Make Great Classrooms

Location matters. Studying photography in a city with a vibrant arts and media scene gives you access to museums, galleries, publications, and a community of working creatives. You’ll be able to intern with local studios, attend artist talks, and exhibit your work publicly. These experiences not only build your portfolio, they help shape your voice as an artist and storyteller.

Ready to Start Your Creative Career?

A photography degree is more than just a technical education. It’s a launchpad for creative expression and career development. You'll graduate with a polished portfolio, confidence in your vision, and the skills to work across industries.

At Columbia College Chicago, the Photography BFA program is rooted in experimentation, collaboration, and career preparation. With professional facilities, award-winning faculty, and deep ties to Chicago’s creative community, Columbia helps emerging photographers grow into working artists. 

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