Learn How to Become a Photographer
In NYFA’s 2-Year Photography Program, students gain advanced knowledge and skills in commercial, fine arts and documentary photography through hands-on projects. Students begin with the one-year program curriculum, completing projects and exercises designed to establish and refine fundamental skills. In the second year, students progress to more advanced topics, and receive training in the art, craft, and business of contemporary image-making.
The goal of the program is for students to understand photography’s visual language and aesthetic theories, and learn to incorporate these in their creative work. Students also learn to manage their brand as a photographer, and build advanced knowledge in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Lightroom.
Students that fully commit to the 2-Year Photography Program walk away with a strong set of skills and techniques, as well as a series of photographs and projects for a competitive portfolio. Upon graduation, students will earn a college credit-bearing Certificate. As students begin with the one-year curriculum, NYFA welcomes individuals with all levels of experience.
Faculty Highlights
Curriculum
The 2-Year Photography Program curriculum includes:
- Classes, coursework, and hands-on workshops in topics such as Lighting, Imaging, Printing, Darkroom, Personal Project Creation and Management, The Business of Photography, Self Promotion, and more
- Ongoing instruction and critique from NYFA photography instructors who actively work in the industry
- Experience working on a professional set
- A DSLR camera, as well as access to high-tech equipment
- Regular guest lectures with influential photographers, directors, cinematographers, producers, and more
To learn more, check out NYFA’s Course Catalog or request more information.
NYFA’s 2-Year Photography Program is a conservatory-style program held over four semesters that includes summers. In addition to courses and exercises completed during class time, students should also expect to spend an additional 25-30 hours a week outside of the classroom on additional projects, such as preparation on their final portfolio and exhibition. Upon graduation, students will earn a college credit-bearing Certificate. Qualified students who complete the program may also apply to have their coursework be accepted for advanced standing in the BFA in Photography degree program at NYFA Los Angeles.
Photography students in the two-year program work on an array of creative projects to help build their portfolio, including a virtual exhibition and self-published book of a tightly edited body of their work. The projects and exercises learned in this program are designed to build skills in lighting, composition, editing, content creation, and more. For a full list of photography projects, see our photography projects page.
For the 2-Year Photography Program, students can choose from NYFA’s campuses in NYC or Los Angeles. At each location, students have access to NYFA’s support system of supply houses, labs, facilities, and equipment.
NYFA New York
17 Battery Place
New York, NY 10004 NYFA Los Angeles
3300 W Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
17 Battery Place
New York, NY 10004 NYFA Los Angeles
3300 W Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
Please note: Equipment, curriculum, and projects are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Students should consult the most recently published campus catalog for the most up-to-date curriculum.