Photography

Photography is an art of capturing or creating real images by recording light, colour and scenes. A photograph is recreated with the help of ‘image sensor’ or photographic film in a camera. Starting since its inception, the concept of the camera had undergone a sea of changes which have ultimately led to the discovery of modern ‘digital camera’. The camera contains a lens which is focused upon the light emitting from the object and the real image of the object is captured on the light-sensitive surface inside the camera within a fixed time. Nowadays, cameras are fitted with an electronic image sensor which produces an ‘electric charge at certain pixel’ and processes the image electronically. 

Everyone loves to take photographs but to excel in the field of photography; one must learn the various modes, settings and the working of a camera. There are courses specially designed for Photography. Be it a diploma course in Photography, or pursuing a course in BJMC, BMM.

Eligibility Criteria to be a Photographer

Photography is a vocational course which lays emphasis on theory, with plenty of hands-on training. To excel in the field of Photography, aspirants will have to devote hours in practical work. A candidate who has passed 10+2 Board examination is eligible for a diploma course, which is usually a one-year course, in which candidates receive theoretical knowledge of the basics of Photography along with practical training to hone their skills as photographers.

Required Skills to be a Professional Photographer

To be a successful photographer, one must thoroughly grasp the technique and nuances of Photography. Besides, the person must possess a creative frame of mind and an eye for perfection. He should have immense patience and interpersonal skill. Shiksha lists the skills required to be a professional photographer:

Admission Procedure and Fee

In India, there are several renowned institutes which conduct diploma course in Photography. Admission to these institutes is done either on the basis of the result in the 10+2 Board examination or through merit in the entrance examination, conducted by the institutes. Some entrances tests are as follows: 

• Delhi School of Photography Entrance Exam

• Andhra University - AU Entrance Exam

• Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film Entrance Exam

Photography Course Structure

A pursuant has to study theory as well as devote time in the field to achieve expertise in the subject. They have to acquire knowledge of the activity, strategy, process, and art of creating and inventing still photographs and video photographs. The topics included in the curriculum are listed below: 

• History of Photography

• Introduction to Image-Making

• Basics of Digital Photography

• Basics of Photoshop

• Basics of Printing

• Street Photography and 

• Photojournalism

Students are taught about the basics of documentary photography, studio lighting for portraiture, studio lighting for still life, typography etc. They are also given exposure to the industry through internship programmes.

Photography Course Curriculum

The entire course of one-year duration has been divided into three modules. The syllabus has been framed to make the aspirants acquire sufficient knowledge and skills of photography. In the table below, we have endeavoured to provide a glimpse of the photography curriculum:

Job and Career Opportunities of a Photographer

In an age of ‘media explosion’, the need for photographers are on high demand. After completing the course of photography, students may receive plenty of opportunities to work on. They may work as photojournalists in the print media, digital media, fashion photographer for magazines, video photographer for digital media, wildlife photographer etc. They may also work as freelance photographers. Initially, a photographer may earn INR 3 lakh per annum but as he/she gains experience the remuneration rises. 

Here, we have prepared a table to provide some idea about the average annual salary of different types of photographers:

Important FAQs on Photography

Q. Do I need any prior experience for pursuing a Photography course?

Q. Can a basic course in Photography help me to start a career in this field?

Q. Do I need any computer skills?

Q. What things should I keep in mind while choosing a Photography course?

Q. Is there any age limit for registering in a Photography course?

Q. What is the eligibility criteria for Photography course?

Q. What is the scope of Photography?

Q. Are there any special courses for digital Photography?

Q. Is Photography a good career option?

Q. Which specialisations of Photography has the most scope?

Q. How much do photographers earn?