What training or education do you need for sports photography?

Answer 1

A photographer can succeed without attending university.

However, going to school for Photography can only help you hone your craft. You can secure a job as an assistant photographer or open your own business, assuming you have the capital, with a 4-year photography degree (Bachelor's).

A 2-year graduate degree (Master's) will see you more skilled and commanding more pay.

Consider a 5-year graduate program (PhD) if you are planning to teach.

If you choose not to go to university, it is recommended that you secure a position as an assistant for a professional photographer in order to learn the ropes.

Online training, Kelby Training for example, can also be very useful.

Answer 2

There are many paths to becoming a photographer; listed here are the three most traveled:

1) Forgo university and work for an established professional photographer as photographer's assistant, work your way up to assistant photographer, and when you know the business and have honed your craft consider operating independently.

2) Go to university for a four year undergraduate degree in photography and either work for an established professional photographer part-time during your university years, or full-time after for a length of one to five years, consider operating independently.

3) Continue your education with a two year graduate Master's or five year graduate PhD in photography. The Master's will have you commanding higher pay. Usually, people do a PhD if they are teaching in a university.

Answer 3

you need experinence not an education.

a high school dipolma should be good enough. (Experience does not always help you)

My answer based on 10+ years as a pro:

While a degree is not necessary, if you are to be taken seriously and want to improve and be known as a professional, you should at the very least follow these guidelines:

Take classes to become familiar with equipment and the sports you are shooting

Know the local, club, state rules governing high school sports....and if you are interested in shooting college...the NCAA guidelines and rules and regulations.

For example: if you publish or sell without a contract with the college the athlete can loose their scholarship. (read the fine print)

Belong to professional organizations that provide you with insurance on your equipment and cover you for liability. SEP, PPA and others

If shooting minors you should have a background check performed by KidSmart

Learn to shoot from the areas on the field and court that are least distracting for younger kids and get approval from SIDS and ADs to shoot. Present them with a link to your website to see a portfolio or bring a book with you.

Most importantly, remember that this is about the kids and the players and not about you. You have an obligation to be insured so the school and team, players and most importantly you yourself are protected should anything happen.

Answer 4

The following is written by and according to the U.S. Department of Labor and particular to the education and training required for photographers.

Employers usually seek applicants with a "good eye," imagination, and creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of photography. Photojournalists or industrial or scientific photographers generally need a college degree. Freelance and portrait photographers need technical proficiency, gained through a degree, training program, or experience.

Education and training. Entry-level positions in photojournalism or in industrial or scientific photography generally require a college degree in photography or in a field related to the industry in which the photographer seeks employment. Entry-level freelance or portrait photographers need technical proficiency. Some complete a college degree or vocational training programs.

Photography courses are offered by many universities, community and junior colleges, vocational-technical institutes, and private trade and technical schools. Basic courses in photography cover equipment, processes, and techniques. Learning good business and marketing skills is important and some bachelor's degree programs offer courses focusing on them. Art schools offer useful training in photographic design and composition.

Photographers may start out as assistants to experienced photographers. Assistants acquire the technical knowledge needed to be a successful photographer and also learn other skills necessary to run a portrait or commercial photography business.

Individuals interested in a career in photography should try to develop contacts in the field by subscribing to photographic newsletters and magazines, joining camera clubs, and seeking summer or part-time employment in camera stores, newspapers, or photo studios.

For the source and more detailed information concerning your request, click on the related links section (U.S. Department of Labor) indicated directly below this answer section.

Answer 5

you must know how to work a camera.
you must know how to take photos.
your photos must be good.