What do you need to know if you choose photography as a major?

[Q24]

I want to choose photography as a major, but i dont know if its the right decision for me. I love taking pictures of just about everything but i dont know how much experience you need to become a photographer. I havent taken any classes, basically all i have is a digital camera that i enjoy using everyday. Please help!

[hehmommy04]

I would suggest going fist to a 2 year college and taking some classes to see if it is something you would really like and get all your undergraduate classes done so you can save money, work in the photography business and also go in as a Junior instead of a Freshman to a University. This is also good in case you do change your mind.

You should look around at some of the photography places to see if you can volunteer or get a paid job helping out. get the feel for what it is like. Also learning about opening up your own business.

[eri]

You need to know that it's really hard to find a job as a photographer unless you have the money and experience to open your own studio. My sister has a 4-year degree in photography, and is now in grad school for something else - she couldn't find enough work to pay her rent.

Remember, you can always take photography classes, or even major in it, or do it as a hobby, but I definitely recommend picking up another major as a fall-back in case you can't find work.