Photography

Choose a Degree or Certificate Designed for Transfer or a Career

Many students want to start their photography career right away. Others choose to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree and beyond. We can help you determine the best path for you.

Photography Associate of Science (AS) degree

Blend your artistic interests with technical skills as you learn processes for commercial and creative photography.

• Take a wide range of studio courses such as photography, photojournalism, black-and-white photography, portraiture, color printing, and creative photographic processes.
• Build a foundation in photography and explore critical analysis of the aesthetic and technical merits of photographs.
• Gain hands-on experience with classes that focus on taking and processing photos for El Camino’s award-winning student-run publications, including The Union newspaper and website, Warrior Life magazine, and the Myriad creative arts journal.
• Meet most common transfer requirements.
• Start your journey toward a bachelor’s degree or a rewarding career.

Photography Certificate of Achievement

Prepare for an entry-level photography job that blends your artistic interests with technical skills as you explore photography with an emphasis on studio work.

• Take a wide range of studio courses such as photography, photojournalism, black-and-white photography, portraiture, color printing, and creative photographic processes.
• Build a foundation in photography and explore critical analysis of the aesthetic and technical merits of photographs.
• Gain hands-on experience with classes that focus on taking and processing photos for award-winning student-run publications, including The Union newspaper and website, Warrior Life magazine, and the Myriad creative arts journal.

Pursue an Entry-Level Photography Job or Further Education

As an El Camino photography graduate, you’ll be ready to start work immediately or pursue a bachelor’s degree at another school. We’ll help you gain the knowledge and hands-on skills for any career you choose in this dynamic career.

• Share the stories of others or tell your own story through photography.
• Work in a broad range of positions in careers such as freelance photography, film, television, corporate communications, fine art, advertising, public relations, medical and scientific publications, and photojournalism.
• Access El Camino’s environmentally sensitive, fully equipped photo wet lab, digital lab, lighting studio, and chemicals used in developing and printing processes.
• Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $22,000 to $89,000 with an average salary of $40,000.

Participate in Hands-On Learning and Career Opportunities

Find real-world experience by working on El Camino’s student-run publications. Explore opportunities to exhibit your work and complete internships.

• Practice your skills and submit your work in award-winning student-run publications, including The Union newspaper, Warrior Life magazine, and the Myriad creative arts journal.
• Submit work in regional and national competitions focused on art and journalism.
• Enter your work in exhibits on and off campus, including annual photography shows in the college’s library lobby and the El Camino College Art Gallery.
• Access a variety of guest speakers, internships, and artistic opportunities to show your work.
• Attend master classes, activities, and special events through our Center for the Arts.