Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Photography Schools in Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo.
Best Photography Schools in Ohio
Curious about the top Photography Schools in Ohio that can kickstart your career? This article highlights the premier institutions offering exceptional programs to elevate your skills.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your expertise, discover where to gain both technical prowess and creative insight.
Stark State College – Digital Photography Program
Stark State College offers a digital photography program that blends artistic vision with cutting-edge technology. This program is ideal for those seeking a structured learning approach that fuses creativity with technical skills.
- Curriculum Options: Choose between an associate degree, taking about two years, or a shorter certificate program.
- Course Coverage: Courses include digital imaging, lighting, graphic arts, and advanced photography.
- Career Pathways: Graduates find careers in professional photography, photo editing, and studio management.
- Hands-on Experience: Students gain experience with industry-standard equipment.
- Faculty Support: Renee Eneix, the Department Chair, is available for more information.
Columbus College of Art & Design – Photography Program
At the Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD), the Photography Program marries artistic exploration with technical training. If you seek personalized instruction amid Columbus’s vibrant art scene, this program might be for you.
- Small Class Sizes: With a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you get personalized attention.
- Thriving Art Scene: The campus is in a city full of inspiration and professional connection opportunities.
- Cutting-edge Facilities: Enjoy state-of-the-art labs for both digital and traditional darkroom techniques.
- Collaborative Environment: The program partners with local businesses for real-world exposure.
- Financial Aid: Scholarships and financial aid are available to assist you.
- Program Levels: Undergraduate and graduate level courses to suit different career aspirations.
University of Akron – Photography Program
The University of Akron offers a photography program that extensively covers fine art photography, leveraging both film and digital technologies. This program is suitable if you aim to build conceptual and technical skills in various photographic mediums.
- Diverse Methods: Learn black and white, color photography, and alternative processes.
- Comprehensive Courses: Includes commercial photography and conceptual development courses.
- Robust Portfolio: Culminates in a professional portfolio showcasing your work.
- Qualified Faculty: Led by established professionals like Melissa Stallard, Photography Area Coordinator.
- Enrichment Opportunities: Offers competitive scholarships, photography conferences, and events from the Folk Photography Association.
- Special Residencies: Features prominent photographers for lectures and portfolio reviews.
Columbus State Community College – Digital Photography Program
The Columbus State Community College Digital Photography Program is perfect for students seeking a multidisciplinary approach. If you’re interested in integrating photography with digital marketing and web design, you’ll find this program valuable.
- Flexible Registration: Choose courses according to your career goals and timelines.
- Cross-disciplinary Education: Includes courses in digital design, marketing, and web design.
- Technical Proficiency: Focus on digital capture, workflow, and image management.
- Industry-Standard Equipment: Learn using the latest technology to align with current industry standards.
- Faculty Expertise: Faculty members bring real-world insights from their industry experience.
- Career Readiness: Prepares you for practical roles in the photography industry and higher education if needed.
The Art Academy of Cincinnati – Photography Program
The Art Academy of Cincinnati offers a Photography Program renowned for its innovative and varied curriculum. This program is ideal if you wish to expand your creative horizons across various art mediums.
- Diverse Curriculum: Includes creative writing, digital arts animation, and illustration.
- Skill Development: Focus on problem-solving skills and practical techniques.
- Community Engagement: Fosters a vibrant and inclusive artistic community.
- Student Support: Provides housing, security, and counseling services to support your academic journey.
- Financial Options: Includes financial aid and a transparent overview of tuition costs.
- Rich Legacy: Established in 1869, offering a structured academic calendar and a history of artistic excellence.
- Enrichment Opportunities: Participate in exhibitions, workshops, and events for a holistic learning experience.
Ohio University – BFA in Studio Art – Photography + Integrated Media
Ohio University‘s BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography + Integrated Media emphasizes creativity and interdisciplinary practice. If you crave a comprehensive exploration of various photography methods, consider this program.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Explore black-and-white photography, digital imaging, video, and more.
- Renowned Faculty: Learn from active artists who provide valuable industry connections.
- Admission Prerequisites: Requires certain prerequisites and a portfolio for entry.
- Award-winning Alumni: Graduates often earn prestigious awards and fellowships.
- Historical Depth: Builds on the legacy of the Clarence White School of Photography.
- Artistic Diversity: Encourages diverse artistic approaches and practices.
The Ohio State University – Photography Program
The Ohio State Photography Program blends a rich historical backdrop with modern advancements. Perfect for those seeking a thorough education that spans various aspects of photography.
- Historical Significance: A program with a history dating back to the 1890s.
- Diverse Courses: Includes Digital Photography, Darkroom Studio Lighting, and Social/Documentary Photography.
- Advanced Facilities: Features well-equipped studios, darkrooms, and digital labs.
- Showcase Opportunities: Regular exhibitions offer platforms to display student work.
- Financial Support: Offers scholarships, funding, and research opportunities.
- Holistic Learning: Emphasizes continuous exploration and redefinition of the photographic field.
- Student Advising: Portfolio reviews and career guidance available for students.
These institutions represent some of the best pathways for pursuing a career in photography. By reviewing each program’s unique offerings, you can select the school that aligns best with your educational and career objectives.
University of Dayton – Photography Program
The University of Dayton offers a Photography Program that balances technical skills with creative exploration. This program is perfect for those looking to integrate photography into various interdisciplinary projects.
- Technical and Conceptual Skills: The curriculum develops both your technical photography abilities and conceptual understanding.
- Latest Technology: You will work with the latest lighting and camera technologies, covering a wide range of projects from artistic to commercial.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by NASAD, ensuring high educational standards.
- State-of-the-art Studio: A cutting-edge studio is available for your creative projects and assignments.
- Critical and Creative Thinking: Emphasizes critical thinking and creative problem-solving, helping you prepare a strong portfolio for job opportunities.
- Real-world Experience: Internship and co-op opportunities allow you to gain practical experience in various photography fields.
- Collaborative Projects: You can participate in collaborative projects addressing important social issues like food justice and human rights through photography.
The Cleveland Institute of Art – Photography Program
The Cleveland Institute of Art offers a Photography Program that combines technical proficiency with artistic exploration. Ideal for those aiming to balance creative vision with practical skills.
- Technical Skills: Gain mastery in both digital and traditional photography techniques.
- Critical Thinking: Courses help you develop strong analytical skills essential for conceptualizing and executing projects.
- Advanced Facilities: Facilities include darkrooms, digital labs, and well-equipped studios for hands-on learning.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from faculty who are seasoned professionals in the photography industry.
- Industry Internships: Internship opportunities provide real-world experience and industry connections.
- Financial Aid: Scholarships and financial aid options are available to support your education.
- Career Preparation: The program’s rigorous curriculum prepares you for successful careers in various fields of photography.
Cuyahoga Community College – Digital Photography Classes
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) offers digital photography classes catering to both beginners and advanced photographers. These affordable courses are perfect for those looking to develop their photography skills without committing to a full degree program.
- Beginner-Friendly: Introductory courses cover basic camera operations and manual mode techniques over four three-hour classes.
- Advanced Techniques: Advanced classes focus on specialized topics such as Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and sports photography.
- Experienced Instructors: Courses are led by experienced professionals who provide high-quality education and practical insights.
- Flexible Learning: Tri-C offers classes for adults and youths, accommodating a wide range of interests and skill levels.
- Affordability: Known for providing affordable education, making photography accessible to everyone.
Shutterbug Training – Beginner Photography ONE
Shutterbug Training offers the Beginner Photography ONE course, designed for novices to master camera operations and photo composition. With a focus on hands-on learning, this course is ideal for those new to photography.
- Foundational Skills: Learn essential camera operations and composition techniques.
- Interactive Sessions: Includes four weekly in-person sessions along with home practice opportunities.
- Manual Mode Mastery: The course emphasizes shooting in Manual mode to give you complete control over your photography.
- Personalized Learning: Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and a supportive environment.
- Affordable Pricing: Courses are reasonably priced with retake options available.
- Comprehensive Learning Materials: Includes educational photography books to enhance your learning experience.
Cuyahoga Community College – Photography Program
The Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) Photography Program stands out for its aim to achieve the highest educational standards in photography. Suitable for students desiring in-depth training for diverse photography careers.
- Editorial and Advertising: Courses include editorial, advertising, and commercial photography skills.
- Digital Imaging: Focus on digital imaging techniques to prepare for modern photography roles.
- Guest Lectures: Benefit from guest lectures and portfolio reviews by industry experts.
- Internships: Gain real-world experience through internship opportunities.
- Professional Faculty: Learn from faculty with professional experience in various photography fields.
- Degree Opportunities: An Associate of Applied Business degree is available, with pathways to four-year programs.
- Community Programs: Tri-C offers workforce training and community programs, making education accessible to a broader audience.
How to Choose the Best Photography School in Ohio
Selecting the right photography school is crucial for your future success. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Curriculum Quality:
- Faculty Expertise:
- Facilities:
- Tuition Costs:
- Location:
- Alumni Success:
Photography Schools By State
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Photography School in Ohio
Ohio offers a multitude of reputable photography schools, each with unique strengths. By evaluating the factors most important to your educational and career goals, you can choose the right institution to build your photography skills.
Explore the schools listed and select the one that aligns with your vision and aspirations. Begin your journey towards becoming an accomplished photographer today.