These days, getting started with photography has never been easier. There are so many sources out there waiting to show you how you can take a hobby and bring it to the next level. So, with so much available, a lot of people wonder whether or not it’s worth it to pursue a formal education. If you could use some guidance, I would love to help you out! As a wedding photography educator, I love working with my students so they can get the most out of their careers. Here is what you need to know about choosing self-taught vs. formal education for photography. 

Find What Works For You Between Self-Taught Vs. Formal Education

Self-Taught Pros and Cons

Let’s look at the case for self-taught Photography being better than formal education: 

Accessibility: The cost alone can make a formal education out of reach for a lot of photographers. With self-taught photography, you can find countless resources, and you won’t have to worry about strict class times. 

Flexibility: You get to decide what you want your learning to look like. Do you prefer videos or instructables? In-depth guides or books? You choose how you want to learn when you want to learn. 

Range of Learning Opportunities: You don’t have to fall into one niche. If you get started and realize you like wedding photography more than nature photography, you won’t be locked in for a full semester. You can pursue whatever appeals to you! 

And now let’s be sure to acknowledge the cons found in this style of learning. 

Lack of Collaboration: It helps you grow when you have objective eyes looking at your work and providing you with advice. Self-taught photographers will have to seek this out themselves. 

Less Gear: With school, you can usually borrow or rent gear at a very low fee. With self-teaching, you pretty much are stuck buying anything you want to try. 

Fewer Connections: A formal education lets you meet people you can work with down the line. With self-taught photography, you have to be much more intentional about it. 

Formal Education Pros and Cons

How can formal photography education be better than the self-taught journey?

Equipment: This really is huge! You are going to be able to experiment with more gear and discover what you like before you have to buy it. It can be great for exploring niches! 

Connections: You get to work with experienced photographers while also meeting people you can collaborate with down the road. It can boost your career before it even starts! 

Direct Feedback: As you work with an experienced photographer, you will have personalized instruction, direct troubleshooting, and critical feedback to help you grow. 

The Cons of Formal Education

Cost: Unfortunately, school can be pretty pricey, with some courses costing thousands. You will need to decide if the perks are worth the price tag as well as the time commitment.

Decreased Flexibility: You will be stuck with a class schedule while only exploring a few niches. You are also going to be highly influenced by your instructor, whether you like it or not. This can be great, but sometimes, it can be a hindrance. 

Less Industry Experience: When you are self-taught, you can get out there and instantly start working, which will help your portfolio. With a formal education, that time will be spent inside classrooms. 

Self-Taught vs. Formal Education: Which Should You Choose?

So, which one is right for you? I would start out by creating a budget. Would a class be worth the cost and the time commitment? Would access to gear and increased connections balance it out? From there, decide if you work best with personalized instruction. Above all else, trust yourself! You are the only one who can make this decision. And no matter what, never be afraid to keep learning. It’s that curiosity that will take you far in your career. 

I Hope This Helps You Decide Between A Self-Taught Vs. Formal Education In Photography

If you have been trying to figure out whether to choose Self-Taught Vs. Formal Education to kickstart your photography career, I really hope this guide helped you out. And if you are looking for a great resource to get started, I would love to chat! As a wedding photography educator, I love working with my clients to teach them how they can take their careers to the next level. I offer two classes on my website that can help you with important things like figuring out your camera gear, editing your photos, and building up your clientele. I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my sessions so you can decide if we’re a match. Send me a message today to find out more!

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