Becoming a Professional Photographer

[Youroldmate]

Great thread this! It's nice to get an insight into what needs to happen for those of us hoping to make a career out of photography/media. I'm especially looking to get advice on the different study options ie the difference between a degree vs a diploma etc. I'm sure it's covered in a thread somewhere so I'll keep looking, but since you're all here you might as well give your opinion!

[I @ M]

the difference between a degree vs a diploma

I will hazard a guess that one will cost you more than the other but one thing I know with total certainty is that neither will make you a better photographer than someone without them ----

[Redgum]

Great thread this! It's nice to get an insight into what needs to happen for those of us hoping to make a career out of photography/media. I'm especially looking to get advice on the different study options ie the difference between a degree vs a diploma etc. I'm sure it's covered in a thread somewhere so I'll keep looking, but since you're all here you might as well give your opinion!

I'd agree with Andrew. With a double degree from wayback in business/film/television plus a diploma in film and television I would have to say the diploma is the more practical learning and contributed most to the technical side of my business. However, without my business learning nothing would have succeeded. (i.e. You need to learn contracts before you take photos) If you analyse why over 90% of photographic businesses fail it's simply a lack of professional knowledge. There are two ways to overcome this; 1) Learn or 2) Employ someone that knows what to do (Ford philosophy).
BTW: If you want accurate data on why photography businesses have failed or are failing simply go to the ABS. Not much info there on success though.