Photography Programs in Orlando, Florida
Getting a Photography Degree in Orlando, Florida
Are you considering a career in photography and wondering how to get started? Earning a Photography Degree in Orlando, Florida, could be the perfect step toward building your skills and launching a successful photography career. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing photography education in Orlando, from local programs to career opportunities and state-specific requirements.
A Photography Degree equips students with technical skills, artistic techniques, and the business knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive industry. Whether you’re interested in fine art photography, photojournalism, or commercial photography, there’s a program to meet your needs. Let’s explore your options in Orlando.
About Orlando, Florida
Orlando, known as “The City Beautiful,” is a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and entertainment. Famous for its theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the city also boasts a thriving arts scene, including museums, galleries, and cultural events. For photographers, Orlando provides endless inspiration, from the picturesque Lake Eola Park to the bustling streets of Downtown Orlando. Learn more about what makes Orlando unique by visiting the city’s official website.
Photography Degree Programs in Orlando, Florida
Orlando offers several schools with Photography Degree programs or courses designed for aspiring photographers. Here are three institutions in or near the city:
Valencia College
Location: Multiple campuses in Orlando
Valencia College offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) in Digital Media Technology with a specialization in Photography. This program focuses on digital photography techniques, editing, and visual storytelling. Students will develop both technical and creative skills to prepare for careers in photography. Learn more about the program on Valencia College’s website.University of Central Florida (UCF)
Location: East Orlando, near Research Park
The University of Central Florida offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Studio Art with courses in photography and digital media. The program emphasizes conceptual and technical skills, allowing students to explore photography as a medium of artistic expression. Visit UCF’s website for more details.Crealdé School of Art
Location: Winter Park, approximately 7 miles from Downtown Orlando
Crealdé School of Art provides non-degree photography courses and workshops for individuals looking to refine their skills. While not a degree-granting institution, Crealdé is an excellent option for those seeking hands-on training. Explore their offerings at Crealdé School of Art’s website.
If you’re willing to travel outside Orlando, you’ll find additional options, such as Daytona State College in Daytona Beach (approximately 55 miles northeast of Orlando) and Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota (about 130 miles southwest of Orlando).
Photography Career Opportunities in Orlando
Orlando boasts a variety of career opportunities for photographers, thanks to its dynamic economy and creative industries. Below are some notable organizations for aspiring photographers:
Orlando Sentinel
Location: Downtown Orlando
This major newspaper often employs photographers for assignments in photojournalism, covering local news, events, and features. Visit the Orlando Sentinel Careers page for opportunities.Disney Fine Art Photography and Video
Location: Lake Buena Vista, near Walt Disney World
Disney Fine Art Photography provides professional photography services for weddings, family portraits, and special events. This is a great option for photographers with an interest in event photography. Learn more at Disney Fine Art Photography’s website.Full Sail University
Location: Winter Park
Full Sail University often hires photographers and videographers for marketing and campus events. Additionally, it serves as a great networking hub for creative professionals. Check out the Full Sail Careers page.
Prerequisites for Photography Degree Programs
To enroll in a Photography Degree program, most schools require the following:
- A high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completion of an application form and payment of a fee
- A portfolio showcasing your photography work (required by some programs, such as UCF’s B.F.A. in Studio Art)
- Minimum age of 18, though some exceptions may apply for dual-enrollment programs
Check with individual schools for specific admission requirements.
Photography Degree Requirements in Florida
In Florida, completing a Photography Degree typically involves coursework in the following areas:
- Fundamentals of photography, including camera operation and composition
- Digital editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
- Lighting techniques for studio and outdoor photography
- Business and marketing strategies for photographers
Florida also hosts several professional organizations that support photographers and provide networking opportunities. These include:
- Florida Professional Photographers (FPP): This organization offers workshops, conferences, and certifications for photographers. Learn more at FPP’s website.
- American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) Florida Chapter: This group advocates for the rights of visual artists and provides resources for professional development. Visit their official website.
Get Started Today
Orlando, Florida, is an excellent place to begin your journey toward a career in photography. With diverse educational options, a thriving creative industry, and access to professional organizations, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and succeed in this dynamic field. Take the first step today by researching local schools and reaching out to their admissions offices. Your future in photography awaits!