Photography

The Photography program at the University of Kansas is dedicated to evaluating and redefining the medium of photography. The undergraduate curriculum is rigorous and designed to immerse students in an exploration of this vast, ever‐changing medium. Through in‐depth instruction, students develop a diverse technical skillset, becoming proficient in both analog and digital practices. The program encourages a strong work ethic, and places emphasis on visual literacy. Through the persistent act of making work, and regular participation in critique, students acquire the critical thinking skills that enable them to read and unpack visual texts.

Career options for visual communication designers include a wide range of areas such as traditional print media, magazine and book design, corporate marketing communications, branding, packaging design, exhibition and environmental design, motion graphic design, website design, interface design and more.

Photography Department website 

Sample of Related Skills

• Understand technologies utilized in the creation, dissemination, documentation, and preservation of photographic art, including analog and digital photography. 
• Demonstrate competence with the principles of visual organization  
• Apply knowledge of the principles of visual organization to conduct formal analysis of artworks  
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of media, technologies and equipment applicable to photography. This includes environmentally responsible practice  
• Identify the major historical achievements in world art, ethical and formal issues, current processes, and directions of photography 
• Integrate skills in studio practice, theory, analysis, media and technology to address a variety of art problems, independently and in collaboration with others  
• Demonstrate through public exhibition the capability to produce work that embodies a coherent set of artistic and intellectual goals  

Popular Career Paths

Design: Involves using computer software to develop visual concepts for magazines, ads, presentations and other projects

Freelance: Entails utilizing one’s network and resources to contract with individuals, companies, or organizations to complete project-based assignments

Photojournalism: Involves using photographs and sometimes even video footage in order to transmit messages and ideas 

Jobs to Consider

• Advertising Art Director
• Digital Marketer
• Film/Video Editor
• Graphic Designer
• Magazine Features Editor
• Media Planner
• Photo Editor
• Press Photographer
• Photographer
• Photography Assistant
• Visual Merchandiser

Places to Seek Employment

• Art Museums
• Local Photography Businesses
• Event Companies
• Large Corporations
• Marketing Departments
• Universities and Colleges 

Explore More Career Resources

Americans for the ARTS - job bank with careers in the arts 

Creative Hotlist - online search engine geared towards career development in the art fields 

Coroflot - online resource for the "creative world at work" featuring job listings board, portfolio advice, groups, and general career advice  

National Art Education Association - premier electronic recruitment resource for the profession, includes job listings 

theCreativeloft - job listings for individuals in creative industries