Studying photography abroad
What is photography?
Photography is the art and practice of capturing images using cameras. It combines technical skills with creativity to tell stories, document events, or express ideas visually. Photography can include portraiture, landscape, fashion, documentary, commercial, and fine art photography.
Students of photography learn about lighting, composition, camera equipment, editing software, and visual storytelling. They also study the history of photography and explore how images influence culture and society. Your learning may take place in studios, galleries, urban streets, or natural landscapes.
Why study photography abroad?
Studying photography in a different country allows you to see new environments, cultures, and ways of life, which can inspire your work. You might capture bustling city streets, traditional festivals, or unique landscapes that you would not experience in your home country.
International study also helps you connect with other photographers, artists, and creative organisations from around the world. These experiences improve your ability to work across cultures and expand your professional network.
What you will study
Photography courses usually combine theory with practical experience. Key areas of study can include:
- Digital Photography – using cameras and editing software to create professional images
- Portrait and Studio Photography – capturing people and objects with controlled lighting
- Documentary and Street Photography – telling stories through real-life situations
- Lighting and Composition – learning how to arrange visual elements effectively
- Photo Editing and Retouching – using software to enhance and manipulate images
- History and Criticism – studying the work of influential photographers
- Projects and Portfolios – developing a body of work for exhibitions or professional use
Many courses also offer field trips, internships with studios, galleries, or media companies, and opportunities to showcase your work publicly.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Graphic Design
- Visual Arts
- Film and Media
- Journalism
- Digital Marketing
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related field. Some programmes allow interdisciplinary study, combining photography with media, design, or communications.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Photography, Visual Communication, or Creative Media. Doctoral programmes are available for research or academic careers in visual arts and media studies.
Professional associations, galleries, and photography societies can provide networking opportunities, recognition, and support for emerging photographers.
Careers
A degree in photography can lead to careers in media, advertising, art, and communication. Graduates often work as professional photographers, photojournalists, or commercial photographers producing work for magazines, brands, or exhibitions.
Other career options include photo editors, curators, content creators, and visual storytellers for media or cultural organisations. Photography skills are valued internationally, giving you opportunities to work on projects, freelance, or collaborate on creative initiatives across the world.
Beyond these roles, photography graduates may become educators, workshop leaders, or digital media consultants. Your skills can help you share stories, preserve memories, and communicate ideas visually on a global scale.