(5) While a degree is not necessarily required, most successful photographers have taken classes and earned a degree in a photography course or in a related field (Bureau). The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that “many universities, community and junior colleges, vocational-technical institutes, and private trade and technical schools offer classes in photography. Basic courses in photography cover equipment, processes, and techniques. Art schools may offer useful training in photographic design and composition” (Bureau). (6) The Oklahoma Career Information System says that in order to graduate programs you must have good grades and good test scores (Photography). However, some schools do have additional requirements (Photography). There are many universities that have great photography programs. (6) One school that is nearby, for example, is the Oklahoma State University in Okmulgee (Photography). OSU specializes in photography, film, art, and technology. There are schools all over the world that can help amateur photographers meet the educational qualifications required to become a thriving …show more content…
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “In 2012, about 60 percent of photographers were self-employed” (Bureau). This means that photographers often schedule the hours they work themselves. This gives them the freedom to choose when and where they work. (4) The photographers that are not self-employed, however, most likely work in photographic portrait studios or for a newspaper or magazine (Photography). The work schedule depends on a photographer’s specialty. For instance, “news photographers often work long irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice” (Bureau). A photographer who specializes in wedding photography typically has to work more during the spring and summer (Bureau). (13) One positive factor of being a photographer is that the majority of them can decide when they want to work. This means you can make plenty of time for your family as well as your career. Owning your own business, as many photographers do, gives you the freedom to make your own choices. Most professions have some sort of dangers, whether big or small. In photography, any hazards depend on what kind of photography you do. In general, all “photographers stand and walk for long periods of time while carrying heavy equipment” (Bureau). However, some photographers have to face dangerous and sometimes even life threatening environments. (9) News photographers are often put in dangerous positions (Bureau). For example,