Explore how a master's can open the door to career opportunities in fine art, commercial photography, photojournalism, and more.
In a world where most people carry cameras in their pockets, what does it mean to be a professional photographer? To succeed in today’s dynamic creative landscape, it’s vital for photographers to give themselves an ambitious edge and pursuing an MA Photography is the ultimate way to do that.
There’s never been a more exciting time to be a photographer, and our MA Photography (Online) is designed to help you unlock a variety of exciting career avenues. With the advancement of technology and the increasing demand for visual content across various industries, you'll discover diverse, rewarding opportunities as a graduate. Whether your passion lies in fine art, commercial photography, or photojournalism, an MA in Photography equips you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the competitive world of image-making.
Here are just a few of the career options you could pursue as an MA Photography graduate:
The commercial photography sector offers a wealth of opportunities for graduates to apply their skills in advertising, fashion, product photography, and beyond. Whether working freelance or as part of a creative agency, MA Photography graduates can leverage their expertise in visual storytelling, composition, and image manipulation to create compelling visuals that resonate with audiences and clients alike.
The power to determine how art and photography is displayed is also the power to shape its narrative. As an Exhibition Curator, you would be responsible for organising, planning, and presenting photographic works in galleries, museums, and other art spaces. Your keen eye for visual communication would make you an expert in crafting narratives, highlighting themes, and showcasing the work of emerging and established photographers to diverse audiences.
For those with a penchant for creativity and artistic expression, a career in fine art photography beckons. MA Photography graduates can pursue avenues such as exhibiting their work in galleries, participating in artist residencies, or even teaching photography at the university level. With the strong conceptual foundation and technical expertise during their master's programme, graduates can carve out a niche for themselves in the contemporary art scene.
With an MA in Photography, you can also pursue careers in academia as educators, researchers, or administrators. Whether teaching photography at the university level, conducting research on visual culture, or curating exhibitions, there are numerous opportunities to make a meaningful impact within the academic sphere and contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding photography as an art form.
If you're passionate about capturing real-life stories and events, a career in photojournalism or documentary photography may be the perfect fit for you. MA Photography graduates can work as freelance photojournalists, contributing to leading publications and news outlets, or embark on long-term documentary projects that shed light on pressing social issues and cultural phenomena.
If you’re leaning towards the operational and business side of photography, a career as a studio manager might be perfect for you. Studio Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of photography studios. This can involve logistics, scheduling, client relations, and ensuring that photoshoots can take place without a hitch. Your in-depth understanding of the industry, its practicalities, and creative processes will empower you to manage studios effectively and support the work of photographers.
Ultimately, the career paths available to you as an MA Photography graduate are as diverse as they are rewarding. Whether your interests lie in fine art, commercial photography, photojournalism, or academia, pursuing a master's degree in photography equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel as an image-maker.
While you refine your creative identity, you’ll also develop a global network of like-minded creatives. These connections could lead to future job opportunities, mentorships, or lasting friendships. Are you ready to take your career to the next level?
Featured image credit: Laura Notlo