Top 5 Schools For Photographers

May 25, 2017

*cover photo is taken by @lorenzobelmontephoto. Model@lonnielenyea. Model Agency @4n6design.

Nowadays there is a common misconception that to become a photographer it is enough to just watch a couple of youtube videos or purchase a few video tutorials from known photographers. While you might get away with it, in a long run this learning method will not give a solid infrastructure of knowledge that truly professional photographers have.

Most US universities provide art and design programs for their students but only a few excel at developing groundbreaking curriculum that will get a rookie to the A list.

1. California Institute of the Arts

Located in Valencia, this institute challenges students to develop a new approach towards conventional practice of photography. If you are into a lot of experimentation under keen supervision of one of best teachers in the industry, this school is where you need to enroll to.

Here is a quick introductions to their program :

“Photography and Media is dedicated to image-makers and artists interested in developing their work, engaging in critical conversations in relation to how images shape contemporary culture, and building technical and formal skills with which to expand the possibilities of lens-based work.”

Find out more about the school and an amazing program it offers HERE.

2. Rochester Institute of Technology

This schools is notorious for the versatility of its programs. Offering a wide spectrum of photography majors, which include fine art photography, photojournalism, advertising photography and Scientific Photography (biomedical photographic communications), this school is for students who are not sure about their genre yet and want to try different things for those who have already chosen to stick to aforementioned genres and advance in it.

Here are some numbers that Rochester Institute of Photography proudly provides:

“The School of Photographic Arts and Sciences prepares students for a wide range of exciting careers in photography and the ever-changing field of imaging. Bachelor of Science degree graduates realize a 94.1 job success rate upon graduation. While Photographic Arts (BFA) degree graduates see a 93.4 job success rate. Image making is taught through courses investigating methods and aesthetics required in pictorial and information-based images, videos, websites and publications.”

Read more about the school and its curriculum HERE.

3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Practice is what the Art Institute of Chicago focuses on the most. With the faculty filled with professional authoritative artists every student has the opportunity to not only perfect one’s theory but also polish the skill hands on. A big focus is placed on professional development. Undergrads pair up with graduate students to collaborate and evolve.

A quick excerpt about the program SAIC offers:

“The Department of Photography at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) is constantly redefining the medium of photography. Our distinguished faculty and eclectic curriculum encourage you to experiment in your work.

Our multifaceted approach to the medium includes traditional forms of image making and conceptually oriented practices and makes the SAIC Photography program uniquely diverse”

For more information please visit their WEBSITE.

4. Rhode Island School of Design

Located in one of the oldest States of America, this school values the historical and socio-cultiral impact of photography. Students are taught to “read the image” thus emphasizing the analytical approach of learning.

A brief information about the School taken of their website.

“RISD approaches photography as an ever-changing set of technical, conceptual and aesthetic conditions that exist within a broad social and cultural context. Students delve into the making, presentation and interpretation of photographic images, exploring photography as both a language and a craft. Ultimately, they learn how to use cultural signifiers, symbols and metaphors in the content and structure of image making.”

Explore RISD’s WEBSITE and get to know the program and enrollment procedure.

5. University of New Mexico

This program offers an interdisciplinary approach to photography including video, film, sound, performance and installation. While “self-discipline is crucial and standards of achievement are high,” according to the college’s site, facilities include digital classrooms, computer labs and state-of-the-art darkrooms for film processing and silver-based printing. Advanced students also have access to lighting equipment, medium format and view cameras,and DSLRs. In both BFA and MFA programs emphasis is placed on the student’s personal growth through aesthetic and intellectual development.

This school encourages interdisciplinary approach to photography by also studying film, sound, performance and installation. Providing such a great spectrum of classes aides the student to develop alternative techniques implementing the knowledge from different disciplines.

A few highlights of the program:

“The Photography Program is a fluid investigation into visual literacy focusing on the creative possibilities of lens-based imaging. Beginning with the introductory course, students create work that combines concept and technique with an awareness of contemporary art theory. Emphasis is placed on the student’s personal growth through aesthetic and intellectual development. This rigorous education in contemporary artistic and cultural practices, accompanied by classes in photographic history, enables students to develop a critical understanding of how photographic practices form and reflect our world.”

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Top 5 Schools For Photographers

1. California Institute of the Arts

2. Rochester Institute of Technology

3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago

4. Rhode Island School of Design

5. University of New Mexico

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