Photography Programs in Fontana, California

Getting a Photography Degree in Fontana, California

If you’re considering a career in photography, earning a Photography Degree in Fontana, California, can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. This guide explores local education options, degree requirements, career opportunities, and resources to help you navigate the path to becoming a professional photographer.

A Photography Degree equips students with technical, creative, and business skills relevant to various photography fields, including fine art, commercial photography, and photojournalism. Programs range from Associate to Bachelor’s Degrees, alongside online and hybrid options for flexible learning.

About Fontana, California

Fontana, located in San Bernardino County, is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and a growing arts scene. With landmarks like the Art Depot Gallery and the Fontana Park Aquatic Center, the city offers an inspiring environment for aspiring photographers. To explore more about Fontana, visit the official Fontana city website.

Photography Degree Programs in Fontana, California

Although Fontana does not currently have schools offering dedicated Photography Degree programs, nearby institutions provide excellent options for aspiring photographers.

  1. Chaffey College (Rancho Cucamonga, CA)

    • Distance from Fontana: ~10 miles
    • Program: Associate Degree in Photography
    • Overview: Chaffey College offers a comprehensive Associate Degree program focusing on foundational photography skills, including digital imaging, lighting, and composition.
    • Website: Chaffey College Photography Program

  2. California State University, San Bernardino (San Bernardino, CA)

    • Distance from Fontana: ~14 miles
    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art with a Photography Concentration
    • Overview: This program provides in-depth training in both traditional and digital photography, emphasizing artistic and technical development.
    • Website: CSUSB Photography Program

  3. Riverside City College (Riverside, CA)

    • Distance from Fontana: ~20 miles
    • Program: Associate Degree in Photography
    • Overview: The program covers various photography techniques and offers opportunities for students to build a strong portfolio.
    • Website: Riverside City College Photography Program

For additional flexibility, the Academy of Art University offers online degree options in photography. Learn more about their programs here.

Photography Career Opportunities in Fontana

Fontana’s proximity to larger cities like Los Angeles and Riverside provides access to numerous career opportunities in photography. Here are some notable employers and resources:

  1. Fontana Arts

    • Location: Art Depot Gallery
    • Overview: Offers workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement opportunities for local artists and photographers.
    • Website: Fontana Arts

  2. Inland Empire Professional Photographers Association (IEPPA)

    • Location: Inland Empire Region
    • Overview: A professional organization supporting photographers through networking events and educational workshops.
    • Website: IEPPA Website

  3. Media Companies in Los Angeles Area

    • Fontana residents can explore opportunities with prominent media companies and advertising agencies in Los Angeles, located approximately 50 miles away.

For more information on the job outlook for photographers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Photography Career Page.

Prerequisites for Photography Degree Programs

Before enrolling in a Photography Degree program, ensure you meet the typical prerequisites, which may include:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Minimum GPA (2.0 for community colleges, 2.5 for universities).
  • Portfolio submission showcasing your best photography work.
  • Completion of basic photography courses (varies by program).

International students may need to meet additional requirements, such as language proficiency tests.

Photography Degree Requirements in California

Photography Degree requirements in California include completing coursework in technical and creative photography, art history, and digital imaging. Students may also need to fulfill internship or capstone project requirements.

Key Accrediting Bodies:

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD): NASAD Website
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): Ensures program quality and institutional accreditation.

State Resources:

Get Started Today

Fontana, California, and its surrounding areas offer excellent opportunities for pursuing a Photography Degree and launching a photography career. Whether you choose a local institution or an online program, taking the first step toward your photography education can open doors to a rewarding and creative profession. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and application requirements.