How To Actually Find Valuable Photography Training

Don't be swindled or waste your time searching in vain. Here is advice on how to actually find valuable photography training from a photography teacher with over 15 years of experience teaching photography classes.

Find Valuable Photography Training

We've all been there. That is, we've all signed up for a class and found that it wasn't quite what we were looking for. Honestly, I've heard this from a lot of students. As a result, I decided to write this article to help you find valuable photography training through classes that will help you reach your goals.

How To Find Great Photography Training

First, to find great photography training you need to understand what your goals are. If your goal is to become a professional photographer then you need to find someone to help you reach that goal. Equally, if you want to learn a specific type of photography finding a photography teacher who knows that subject is important.

Training To Be A Professional Photographer

The goal of this article is to help you find training to become a professional photographer. That said, if you're a hobbyist you still might find valuable information here. However, it will be geared more towards those looking to earn money as a photographer.

If you're looking to become a professional photographer check out my article titled: How To Become A Photographer Without Paying For School. That article is a great way to learn photography while being paid. Plus, it's the most sound way to become a photographer.

That said, it isn't the fastest way.

Therefore, if you want to begin working as a photographer faster you'll want to pay for classes from someone who can teach you. Additionally, you'll want that person to understand the most essential things you need to begin along with what can wait.

Getting Started As A Working Photographer Quickly

The best way to start working quickly is to make sure you know the essentials of both photography and business. As such, signing up for local business help can be huge. In Pennsylvania there are state centers (affiliated with a number of universities) which help small businesses. In addition, the SBA offers advice and mentorship.

Finding Great Photography Classes

If you've been struggling to find photography classes near you here are some tips.

Don't Write Off Hobby Classes

Most photography classes you find are geared towards hobbyists. Of course, they may not be helpful for you. However, if you find the right photography class they can be.

So, look for classes that are specifically on the subject you want to do professionally. For example, if you want to be a portrait photographer then it may be okay to take a hobby portrait class. That said, reach out to the instructor and ask if they think it makes sense for you.

If you're planning to work only as a natural light engagement portrait photographer then a studio lighting course probably doesn't make sense. However, a class on posing couples really could.

Professional Photographer Classes

Unless you live in a very large city there are likely not a lot of regular classes that will teach you how to become a professional photographer. However, there are a number of professionals who travel and teach all around the country.

Pro Photography Workshops

Look for professional photography workshops. Then, make sure to read information about the teacher, what other students thought, etc. After all, you don't want to sign up for a class that isn't right for you.

In addition, a lot of great photographers host regular workshops in their hometowns. As such, you can travel to them.

Just remember - any photography training you take from a big name photographer could be really worthwhile. However, they may not answer questions after the workshop is over.

How Much Good Photography Classes Cost

The biggest question I get asked about all photography classes is about cost. For hobbyists asking the cost of a photography class makes sense. However, if you're planning to be a pro photographer, ask what the ROI will be instead. That is, will the $1,000 spent at this two day workshop increase your income by at least that amount. Also, will the increase cover the time spent learning?

If not then it's not worth it.

Learning From A Local Professional Photographer

When it comes to learning photography you need to learn from a working professional. Why? Because they know what the local market is like, what is and isn't working, and more. Instructors who are not also working pros might be great teachers. However, if they're not actively working they are missing out on vital information that can make or break your business.

It's important to understand that you don't need to find a photographer who is actively teaching. Of course, it's great when a teacher knows what they're doing. However, you can find amazing teachers by seeking out mentors.

Find A Pro Photographer Mentor

If you live in a small town or place where there are not a lot of photography classes then try to find a mentor. Of course you need to be respectful of their time. However, many photographers value helping others out for a few reasons.

Please note, you really shouldn't be scared to ask someone to mentor you. There are a lot of benefits for mentors like all of the following just to name a few.

The Benefits For Mentors

First, it's great to have someone to talk shop with and gossip. For example, sharing stories of wild clients with someone who can or will be able to relate is stress relieving.

Second, good photographers know that more photographers in an area is a good thing. In fact, the benefits far outweigh the downsides. For instance, being able to have someone to assist or to pass jobs off to when you can't do them is great.

Also, more people advertising their services makes more people aware of your services too. This is because anyone seeing ads or hearing word-of-mouth is reminded that there are pro photographers in the area.

Finally, (for this list at least), when you ask a mentor a question about something they do without thinking it makes them think. As a result, they get better at what they're doing. So ultimately, you're actually helping them nearly as much as they're helping you!

High Quality Photography Training Is Available

One last way to find really high quality photography training is to take online private photography lessons. First, you can schedule them at a time that works great for you. Second, you have a much wider range of photography teachers to choose from. Finally, these are often (though not always) a less expensive option than in person lessons.

About Asynchronous Lessons

I feel that it's important to also discuss asynchronous lessons. Some people learn really well from watching videos. However, if you're not one of those people then avoid asynchronous photography classes. Again, they work really well for some folks. That said, they are not for everyone.

In Conclusion

There are a lot of ways to actually find quality photography training. For example, by assisting, or by taking classes or being mentored by a professional photographer. That said, no one solution works best for everyone.

Therefore, make sure you do a lot of research on the specific classes, instructors, etc. before making your decision. Too, if you're really stuck feel free to reach out. I'd love to answer your questions and help you reach your professional photography goals.