Seeing More Intensely
Taking a Look at Photography Schools

"It is the photographer's job to see more intensely than most people do." - Bill Brandt

While it can be argued that the act of truly seeing is the essence of the photographer's art, the ability to technically interpret and transfix the image from the mind's eye to paper is an equally vital part of the process. Here's where the photography school comes in.

While schools can, at best, jump-start an artist's heightened sense of vision, a savvy photo educator can provide technical know-how and offer personal artistic insight invaluable to a budding photographer. The great Cartier-Bresson called it "learning visual grammar."

As with any new language, it's best to learn the grammar first. While some say you can't teach Art, you can teach technique and foster an inquisitive mind. This is the approach of most modern photography schools.

We are in a time of great change in the world of photography. Technology is propelling us into a Digital Revolution. Pixels are going mainstream, but there is a renewed interest in Black and White and a heightened desire for traditional photographic processes.

In photography schools, curricula vary. But the goals of these schools are pretty consistent: provide good, sound knowledge of the basics and give students opportunities to grow and create imagery that will start a body of work to carry them forward.

Some schools are art oriented, offering an array of courses that will challenge the student to become, first and foremost, an artist. These schools offer courses in photographic history, art appreciation, the standard methods and practices, and aesthetic challenges. Other schools concentrate on the practical side of photography _ making a living as a working practitioner. These educational institutions have specialty niches _ Portraiture, Advertising, Fashion, Photojournalism, Electronic Imaging, etc. Career-oriented schools generally combine sound practical photographic education with business classes to teach students to be working photographers or assistants upon graduation.

Facilities and up-to-date equipment are an integral part of a first class photo school, but the true heart and soul of an institution of this type are the instructors. Many schools employ instructors who are working professionals, bringing an up-to-the-minute, hands-on approach to teaching. Marrying lectures, demonstrations, class assignments, and critiques into a cohesive educational experience requires a teacher with not only deep knowledge but also a genuine dedication to the profession. Usually a good mix of day-to-day training and challenging self-study, coupled with field trips, guest lecturers, and other programs will provide students with a well-rounded education. Some schools offer 1 or 2-year intensive programs, while others are degree-granting institutions.

Choosing the school that is right for you can be a daunting task. The first step is to sit down and give serious consideration to what you would like to do with your life and decide what part photography should play in it. Talk with parents, friends, and guidance counselors, along with photographers who are working in the fields that interest you. You'll find that most artists who are passionate about their work love to talk about it.

If it's a career you're looking for, well-trained photographers can expect a wealth of work openings. Entry-level jobs as photographers' assistants abound, as do situations for studio managers and production personal. Professional processing laboratories also hire photo school grads with knowledge and training in everything from color printing to digital retouching and finishing. Positions are also available for photographers in all venues of image creation—from child and family portraiture to weddings, from catalog advertising to newspaper and magazine photography. If these opportunities appeal to you, check out the exciting and rewarding career of photography.

Editorial provided by Arthur L. Rainville, Director of Special Projects at New England School of Photography 537 Commonwealth Ave. Boston, MA.