Careers in Photography

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A photography degree can lead to a fun, versatile, and lucrative career. Professional and freelance photographers can take photos for fine art and commercial purposes. They may be hired by publications such as newspapers and fashion magazines, organizations such as museums and advertising agencies, and event planners for weddings and parties, to name a few.

Fine Art Photographer

Fine art photographers sell work to individuals, galleries, interior designers, architects, libraries, community centers, churches, banks, hotels, government and elsewhere on a freelance basis or by commission. Fine art photographers enjoy creative freedom not generally allowed to freelance or staff photographers, but they must also be extremely self-motivated.

Freelance Photographer

Freelance photographers are hired out on a job-by-job basis, a nice perk for those who prefer to make their own schedule or to work on a variety of projects. Freelancers do many of the same jobs as staff photographers, without the benefit of a consistent paycheck. Some freelancers specialize in areas such as portraits, aerial photography by plane, weddings or fashion.

Medical or Forensic Photographer

Documents medical symptoms and patient progress as well as documenting evidence for the police. Documents crime scenes and evidence as well as autopsy results. Education or experience in criminal justice is often important to get these positions.


A photojournalist documents history with a camera by photographing newsworthy people, places, or events. They typically work for a newspaper, journal, magazine or television network and produce powerful photographs that capture the facts of the story they are covering.

Staff Photographer

Staff photographers produce images for magazines, advertisements, brochures, catalogs, corporate reports, publishers, architects or other individuals and businesses that want an event documented or an image that conveys a specific thought or story.

Studio Owner

Photography studio owners administrate independent studios or divisions of a larger firm, such as an advertising agency or a marketing division of a large corporation. This position requires business savvy in addition to artistic talents.


Photography Alum Spotlight

Nadia Alenov


Educational Opportunities at MCAD