Professional Photography FAQ
Welcome to the Advanced Manufacturing FAQ page for Pickens Technical College. Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about our Advanced Manufacturing Training Program. From program entry requirements to career opportunities, we’ve got everything covered to help you decide about joining us.
Course Offerings and Levels
Our comprehensive, two-semester program covers the following courses:
- Professional Photography I: Focuses on black-and-white photography and essential camera and lab skills.
- Photography Lab: Hands-on lab safety and proper use of equipment.
- Photo-Image Capture I: Explores DSLR camera operations, exposure control, and digital capture techniques.
- Professional Portraiture: Develops skills for studio and location-based portrait photography.
- Contemporary Photo Practices: Focuses on creating a unified personal style and portfolio.
- Digital Darkroom II: Advanced digital image processing and editing techniques.
- Portfolio & Career Exploration: Culminates with professional portfolio creation and career preparation.
For a full list of courses, visit our Photography Program page.
Students graduate with a certificate in professional photography accredited through the Colorado Community College System. This certificate is recognized statewide and can be transferred to Colorado community colleges for continued education.
Yes! High school students can enroll concurrently, making this a fantastic opportunity to begin earning professional photography training early.
Learning Experience and Benefits
Students in our professional photography training courses gain critical skills, including:
- Studio and natural lighting techniques
- Digital and film photography
- DSLR camera operation
- Darkroom and lab management
- Professional inkjet printing and image processing
By the end of the program, you’ll possess the expertise needed to freelance, assist professional photographers, or pursue further education.
Our program is built on a 50/50 split between classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Students train in a simulated studio environment with real industry-grade equipment to ensure they graduate with the practical skills needed for professional work.
The program lasts for one year and spans two semesters of comprehensive coursework and interactive, hands-on learning.
Additional Resources and Assistance
Students benefit from a variety of resources:
- Access to state-of-the-art photography labs and equipment.
- Tasting real-world industry workflows in a simulated studio.
- Guidance from highly qualified instructors like Erik Schubert, MFA.
Our dedicated faculty is here to assist you every step of the way. You’ll also have access to career services and academic advisors to help you succeed.
Absolutely! The Colorado Community College System recognizes all credits and can be used to further your photography education.
Why Choose Pickens Technical College?
Pickens Technical College offers:
- Affordable excellence: Earn a professional photography certificate program online affordably with our state-accredited certification.
- Industry-ready skills: Hands-on training with professional equipment ensures graduates are job-ready.
- Career preparation: Graduates receive career guidance and exit with a polished portfolio to showcase their work.
This program prepares you for roles such as:
- Freelance photographer
- Photographer’s assistant
- Commercial or portrait photographer
Entry-level salaries start around $25,000, with median salaries at $46,000 and potential earnings exceeding $75,000 for experienced professionals.
General FAQs
To get started, visit our Steps for Enrollment page. The application process is straightforward, and our admissions team is here to guide you.
Our campus is conveniently located in Aurora, Colorado, and serves students from across the state.
While most of our program is on campus due to the hands-on nature, some elements of instruction and resources are available online.
Click here to request more details. You can also email Erik Schubert at erschubert@aurorak12.org.
Pickens Technical College’s professional photography degree programs are built to empower you with the skills, knowledge, and portfolio needed to kickstart a successful career in photography. Explore your passion for photography with us today!