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Professional Photography - Associate of Applied Science Degree
Because students have only two years to gain skills necessary to landing entry-level positions, the Professional Photography program devotes 80 percent of its total credits to courses directly related to photography. Other courses are business related or fulfilling general distribution credits. In addition to developing advanced photo skills, the curriculum also emphasizes business skills and practices essential to surviving as an independent photographer. Second-year students will participate in a photography business simulation where they operate an on-campus photography business. Following the long-held apprenticeship model, students learn business skills from their internships as well. Since its inception in 1998, this unique program has flourished. It enjoys an excellent reputation among the local community of commercial and portrait/wedding photographers. All students will intern with professionals, which for some dedicated students, leads to a first job as an assistant after graduation. Our teaching staff is comprised of working professionals and/or photographers with Masters of Fine Arts in Photography. The 20-25 students per year who are accepted to the program will be prepared for jobs ranging in pay from $20-$35,000 per year. These may include assistantships with established photographers, free-lance work for newspapers and magazines, or work in digital imaging through photo labs and service bureaus.
Photography, whether it is as a professional or a personal interest, is always exciting, challenging and rewarding. We hope that you will consider Mt. Hood Community College Professional Photography program to meet your photography education needs. If you would like more information on the application procedure call College Admissions and Records at (503) 491-7342 or contact Dana Spielmann, photography program director at (503) 491-7412 or Dana.Spielmann@mhcc.edu |
Professional Photography is currently one of the most dynamic and challenging career areas. In the last decade, the industry has shifted to digital technologies and methodologies. Studio techniques have changed to reflect the new digital workflow from image capture to output. 
Program students will likely spend, in addition to tuition and fees, approximately $250-300 on books and supplies. Students will be using adjustable 35mm digital cameras, a flash meter, tripod and a dedicated flash and/or strobes. Some equipment may be purchased through special "student buy" programs. The college does have an equipment loan program that may supplement student needs until they can purchase their own. Deadline for application to the Professional Photography program is in the fourth week of May.