What certifications do you need to be a photographer?

[BrightStar]

There are many career options I want to persue, and I am wondering what kind of certifications, degrees, etc you need for becoming a photographer, either full or part time.

I was thinking of going to a trade school, or some other type for that, and was wondering where the best places to go are.

I dont have a degree in that yet, as I had to start all over because of the swfc incident, and the fact that florida colleges just suck completely, but the art proffessors really liked My work, but Im wandering off topic now, so, back to the original questions.*

What do you need to be certified, or do you just need a camera and portfolio?

What are some good places to learn that?

[ForrestBlack]

My advice is to try to find the best camera/photography store in your area and ask if they have a job/notices board. Post a note explaining that you are interested in being a photo assistant. It is very important that you are honest (on the note) about the fact that you don't know much about photography yet, but you are willing work in order to learn. Being an assistant is how really a lot of great photographers got started.

My advice to you, if you do get someone interested, is never never never appear to be hitting on and models or girls on the job. Don't even be too flirty or unreasonably complimetary even. I'm not saying be a chilly jerk, but you should keep your mind on the job at all times. You could easily make the model uncomfortable when they are trying to do their job and probably the photographer would have your head. I'm sure you can understand, but it's just something to pay attention to before any problems arise. Also, observe what is going on around you, rather than asking like a million questions on the first day or whatever. You are there to pick up skills, but they are there to do their job, so be mindful of being disruptive or underfoot.

Photography is not an easy career choice though. Even for the pros, the income is irregular and you constantly have to overcome potentially stressful and difficult situations. But, it can be a rewarding and fun side job or hobby. Once you get to that level, you can better decide if you want to make it your full time thing.

[BrightStar]

Cool, Thanks Forrest!

Do you need any degrees or certificates like in most jobs or careers, or just a portfolio, camera, and the knowledge of the cameras, techniques, as well as the other photography stuff ?*

[KilLAtomiK]

i thought all you needed was a camera and the right eye

[Tequila Zaire]

i thought all you needed was a camera and the right eye

left eye helps too.

[Hypnotic Vampire]

And a queer eye if you're a straight guy!

[HempKnight]

And a few browneyes... if you aspire to become a rectal photographer

[TheDeathKnight]

Most careers in creative areas do not require a degree.
You go to college to learn the skills, not because anyone
needs to see that you have a degree. People will hire you
to shoot their pictures, because they like your photos,
not because you have a degree.

[tatdownthere]

you can stufy corcoran is very good but no one can tell you whetehter you can be a artist or not

[suicidal_tendencies]

why don't you come take a couple pix of me, brightstar? lol

[BrightStar]

why don't you come take a couple pix of me, brightstar? lol

I would Love to!
Bwuahahahhahhahahahhahahaha!
**

[suicidal_tendencies]

I would Love to!
Bwuahahahhahhahahahhahahaha!
**

so.....I'm waiting. :