Expert: Don Wood - 7/3/2006

Question
Hello Mr. Wood,
I'm doing a career research project for my media arts class on photography, and I was wondering if you knew what the estimated cost over all would be after university/college including professional training. I've been trying to look for this information but all in vain. I'd be really greatful if you could assist me. Thank you.

Answer
You're in the midst of your undergraduate work in college. After college, you could enroll at the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California. http://www.brooks.edu/   Look at the website, it is a very intensive program offering many fields, videography, photography, underwater photography, etc. It is pricey, if you add that cost to your costs for the undergraduate education, you will have an idea. There is also the New York Institute of Photography on the East Coast. http://www.nyip.com  This is an online course but I think you could also have classes in New York City. During your undergraduate years you should take as many business courses as possible in addition to any photography classes your school may offer. It will also help if you take a few courses in salesmaship, etc. It will help you to learn how to lead people willingly into doing what you want.
It is not enough to be a technician in your photo career, you must be a businessman as well.
All this being said, photography is an excellent 2nd job since most of the work in a small town market occurs on the weekends, evenings. Weddings, reunions, etc occur on the weekends. I do suggest that you keep your day job or have your significant other be able to pay the day-to-day bills like rent, food, utilities, gas, etc. Bear in mind that the more learning you can get the better you will succeed in the field of photography. Who know, you might be the next Monte Zucker of wedding photography. But you must pay your dues in this field while you are building up your clientele base.
If I can help you further, please let me know via this venue. Thanks for asking.
Don