Photography Programs in Portland, Oregon

Getting a Photography Degree in Portland, Oregon

If you’re considering a career in photography, earning a Photography Degree can be a great way to build the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this creative field. Portland, Oregon, with its vibrant arts scene and scenic landscapes, offers an excellent environment for aspiring photographers. This guide will walk you through the process of pursuing a Photography Degree in Portland, exploring educational options, career opportunities, and resources available in the area.

What is a Photography Degree?

A Photography Degree equips students with technical skills, artistic knowledge, and creative problem-solving abilities needed for a successful photography career. Programs range from Associate Degrees focusing on foundational skills to Bachelor’s Degrees that delve deeper into specialized areas such as commercial, fine art, or editorial photography. Some programs also offer opportunities for internships and portfolio development to prepare students for the professional world.

About Portland, Oregon

Portland, located in Multnomah County, is known for its thriving arts community, breathtaking natural beauty, and progressive culture. The city offers countless opportunities for photographers to explore urban and natural landscapes, from the iconic downtown neighborhoods to the serene Columbia River Gorge. Portland’s official website, https://www.portland.gov/, provides additional information about the city and its resources.

Photography Degree Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland is home to several institutions offering Photography Degree programs. Below are three local options and their key features:

  1. Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA)

    • Degree Offered: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography
    • Location: Pearl District, Portland
    • Program Overview: PNCA emphasizes fine art, commercial, and editorial photography. The program includes foundation courses, advanced studio work, and a senior thesis. Students also develop a professional portfolio to showcase their skills.
    • Website: https://pnca.willamette.edu/academics/bfa/photography/

  2. Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)

    • Degree Offered: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Commercial Photography
    • Location: Gresham, approximately 15 miles east of Portland
    • Program Overview: MHCC offers hands-on training in studio and on-location photography. The program includes courses in digital imaging, lighting, and multimedia storytelling, along with an internship and portfolio development.
    • Website: https://catalog.mhcc.edu/programs-majors/integrated-media-photography-degree/

  3. University of Oregon (UO)

    • Degree Offered: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with a concentration in Photography
    • Location: Eugene, approximately 110 miles south of Portland
    • Program Overview: UO focuses on studio art and photography. The program includes BFA exhibitions, portfolio development, and interdisciplinary coursework.
    • Website: https://artdesign.uoregon.edu/art/undergraduate

Photography Career Opportunities in Portland

Portland’s creative industries offer various career opportunities for photographers. Below are some notable employers and organizations in the area:

  1. Portland Photographers Association

  2. Blue Sky Gallery

  3. Portland Art Museum

    • Overview: This museum features photography exhibitions and educational programs that can inspire and connect photographers with the community.
    • Website: https://portlandartmuseum.org/

Prerequisites for Photography Degree Programs

Admission requirements for Photography Degree programs in Portland typically include:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Official transcripts
  • An application form (online or paper)
  • SAT/ACT scores (varies by program)
  • Portfolio submission (for certain programs)

For example, PNCA requires a portfolio and letters of recommendation, while MHCC does not require SAT/ACT scores but may require placement tests.

Photography Degree Requirements in Oregon

To complete a Photography Degree in Oregon, students must meet the curriculum requirements of their chosen program. These may include:

  • Core courses in photography techniques, digital imaging, and art history
  • Specialized coursework in areas such as commercial or fine art photography
  • An internship or capstone project for practical experience
  • A professional portfolio to demonstrate skills

Accreditation is also crucial. Institutions like PNCA and UO are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) or the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). These accrediting bodies ensure the quality and credibility of the education provided.

For additional guidance on education in the area, students can contact:

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Photography Degree in Portland, Oregon, can open the door to a fulfilling career in the arts. Whether you want to capture stunning landscapes, create compelling commercial images, or push the boundaries of fine art photography, Portland offers the resources and programs to help you succeed. Take the first step today by exploring the programs and connecting with a school that aligns with your goals.