Interested in taking a photography course but confused about how to start?
This blog will take you through all the things you need to look out for. Make a checklist and keep it handy so you don’t miss out on an important element while shortlisting courses.
What Should be The Content of A Photography Course?
Although the content varies depending on the type and duration of the course, here are a few subjects that you can look for in photography courses –
- Fundamentals of Photography
- Evolution of Photography
- Niches like Wildlife, Portrait, and Travel Photography
- Details of Lighting and Editing
- Camera Angles and Handling Equipment
- How to Develop a Portfolio
- Knowledge of relevant software
Available Courses and Fee Structure
Depending on your qualifications, you can enroll in an undergraduate or postgraduate program. Check out the table below to get an idea about some of the best photography courses in India –
| Course | Duration | Eligibility Criteria | Topics Covered | Course Fee* |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Photography | 3-4 years | 10+2 with a minimum 50% aggregate |
|
₹30,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
| Master’s Degree in Photography | 2 years | Undergraduate degree from a recognized college |
|
₹50,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
| Diploma in Photography | 1-2 years | 10+2 with a minimum 50% aggregate |
|
₹15,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Certification Course in Photography | 4 weeks – 6 months | 10+2 with 45%-50% aggregate score |
|
₹5,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
*Course fees vary based on curriculum, facilities, duration, etc
Does the Course Have the Required Accreditation?
Accreditations ensure the course is at par with the educational standards. Accredited or recognized courses have up-to-date curricula. These are more likely to meet the industry standards and provide access to better resources. Accredited courses also add value to your resume and make way for better work opportunities.
What Kind of Infrastructure Can I access?
The better the infrastructure, the better your learning experience will be. Here’s what you can consider –
- Are there studio spaces and darkrooms for student access?
- Do the lab facilities include access to editing software, post-production and media labs, and other required resources?
- Does the infrastructure include high-quality equipment including cameras, tripods, lenses, lighting accessories, and other necessary gear?
- Are there high-quality printers, framing tools, and exhibition areas?
- Is there a resource room/study area open for students beyond the class hours?
What is the Expertise of The Facilitators?
Before you enroll in a photography course, make sure you go through the list of faculty members and their experience/expertise.
Ideally, you should pursue a course that is guided by facilitators who have academic as well as industry expertise. This enables them to help you master the discipline and to guide you through the subtleties of the industry.
What are the Evaluation Parameters?
While it might not seem like a criteria initially, you need to understand how courses evaluate you. Photography courses need both theoretical knowledge and practical training.
Make sure you prioritize courses that include projects, presentations, research, portfolio development, and internships. You will be working on your subject-matter knowledge, ability to handle camera equipment, understand the nuances of photography and get an idea of the industry.
A blend of theory and practical-based assessments is necessary for the versatility that you will need for a rewarding career in photography.
What Are The Internship and Placement Opportunities?
Most reputed institutes provide internship and placement opportunities. You can go through their website and check their top recruiters to find out about placements. Some institutes also have a list of recruiters on their prospectus brochure to give you an idea.
Go through the curriculum and see if it includes internships. Internships are essential to get a glimpse of the industry and experience the work culture. It prepares you for any complexity that you might face later as a professional. Don’t forget to look for classroom projects and industry visits in the curriculum when finalizing your course!
Key Takeaways
Following these simple steps would allow you to choose the best photography course for yourself. A good course would make your academic journey memorable and full of learning.
Check out the degree and diploma courses offered by AAFT. The expert-guided courses are a fun blend of theory and practical subjects. These would provide you access to all the tools and resources you need before stepping into the industry.
