Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Photography Schools in Chattanooga, Clarksville, Knoxville, Memphis, Murfreesboro, and Nashville.
Are you passionate about photography and looking to elevate your skills?
Discover the top Photography Schools in Tennessee, offering diverse programs perfect for beginners and aspiring professionals alike.
From hands-on workshops to comprehensive degree courses, these institutions provide the tools and training needed to excel in the world of photography.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Photography Programs
Looking for a robust photography education? The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers extensive undergraduate programs that emphasize both artistic and technical skills. You can pursue either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in photography.
- BA Program: Includes a wide-ranging liberal arts education, perfect for those who want to explore multiple disciplines.
- BFA Program: Ideal for students considering professional careers or further graduate studies in visual arts.
Both programs provide access to outstanding facilities, including:
- Media pool
- Digital photography lab
- Analog darkroom
Additionally, faculty members focus on helping students develop a unique visual language, grounded in a deep understanding of photographic processes and history. For those interested in enhancing their skills outside of these majors, the university offers a studio art minor and even photography courses for non-art majors.
Advanced courses can help you refine your visual perspectives. You’ll also have the chance to participate in the Artist-in-Residence Program and Visiting Artists and Scholars Program, as well as internships with organizations like Aperture, the International Center for Photography, and the Society for Photographic Education (SPE).
The University of Tennessee – Non-Credit Photography Program
For aspiring photographers who aren’t seeking a degree, the University of Tennessee offers a Non-Credit Photography Program. This program caters to hobbyists and professionals looking to gain new skills or deepen existing ones.
Courses cover a variety of specialties:
- Basic Lighting and Posing: Learn how to effectively light and pose subjects.
- Fundamentals of Digital Photography I: Get started with digital photography basics.
- Portrait Photography: Focus on capturing the essence of subjects.
The program also includes a Photography Certificate, requiring the completion of 160 class hours within three years. This includes:
- Fundamentals of Digital Photography I
- Various photography electives
Pricing for individual courses ranges between $209 and $259, making it an affordable option for both casual photographers and serious students. The program does not currently accept memberships or donations, which allows for a non-competitive learning environment.
Tennessee State University – Photography Program
At Tennessee State University (TSU), the photography program offers a clear path to mastering the art. With courses like Photography and Advanced Photography, you’ll develop technical skills and creative insights to thrive in this field.
Key aspects of TSU’s photography program include:
- Experienced Faculty: Led by accomplished professionals like Xingkui Guo.
- Resourceful Infrastructure: Access to extensive facilities such as libraries and media centers.
- Engaging Campus Life: A supportive learning environment with numerous student services.
TSU emphasizes affordability and offers various financial aid options to make education accessible. Moreover, the program prepares you for real-world scenarios and engages in cutting-edge research to stay at the forefront of the industry.
Nossi College of Art and Design – Photography Degree Program
Nossi College of Art and Design in Nashville provides a specialized Photography Degree program tailored for those wanting to turn their passion into a profession. The curriculum is designed to cover a wide range of photographic techniques and applications, from basic to advanced.
Key elements of Nossi’s program:
- Technical Skills: Courses cover essential skills such as lighting techniques, commercial advertising, and portrait photography.
- Software Proficiency: Training in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom for editing and image manipulation.
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world assignments, hundreds of image captures, and collaboration with advertising professionals.
Nossi College also emphasizes the business aspects of photography, offering courses on marketing, client management, and running a photography business. Internship opportunities for senior-level students allow for valuable industry experience.
Facilities include state-of-the-art studios, Macintosh computers, and extensive photographic equipment. The program blends technical training with a focus on visual storytelling to foster creativity and professionalism.
For more details on all these programs, visit their respective links and explore how these Tennessee schools can help you become a skilled and creative photographer.
East Tennessee State University – Photography Program
The Photography program at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) offers a diverse curriculum that nurtures creative, conceptual, and technical skills. The program provides an extensive range of courses in black and white, color, film, digital, and studio photography.
Key Features of ETSU’s Photography Program
- Introductory Courses: Learn essential tools and skills, including digital technology.
- Intermediate and Advanced Courses: Focus on project development, refining personal vision, and expanding your aesthetic and professional skills.
- Graduate Program: First-year graduate students explore various concepts and techniques, building towards a cohesive body of work in the final two years.
The program emphasizes class discussions, readings, presentations, and critiques to foster critical dialogue about both historical and contemporary photography issues.
Facilities and Equipment
ETSU provides:
- Alien Bee Flash with Portable Power Packs
- Canon Rebel T6 & T7 DSLR Camera Kits
- iMac Digital Lab with Adobe Creative Cloud
- Epson Stylus Pro 3880 Photo Printers
- Hasselblad Imacon Flextight X5 Scanner
The access to these facilities ensures that students are well-equipped to hone their craft. The experienced faculty, including experts like Tema Stauffer, play a crucial role in guiding students through their educational journey.
The ETSU Photography program stands out as a reliable choice for those wishing to pursue a concentrated study in photography within Tennessee. Explore more at the ETSU Photography website.
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont – Photography Workshops
The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont offers invigorating photography workshops perfect for nature enthusiasts. Led by experts like Tom Vadnais and Steve Zigler, these workshops provide a unique learning experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Highlights of Tremont’s Photography Workshops
- Expert-Led Instruction: Benefit from one-on-one assistance and insightful critiques.
- Scenic Locations: Photograph the breathtaking landscapes of the Smokies.
- Community Engagement: Connect with like-minded photography enthusiasts.
- Seasonal Workshops: Participate in specific workshops like the Autumn Brilliance Photography Workshop.
Pricing includes meals, lodging, and instruction, making it an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves completely in the art of photography. With its beautiful surroundings and expert guidance, Tremont provides a rich learning environment for all skill levels. Learn more at the Tremont Photography Workshops page.
Taylor Alexander Photography – One-on-One Photography Classes and Mentorships
Taylor Alexander Photography offers personalized mentorships and one-on-one classes for photographers aiming to elevate their skills. Taylor provides expert, individualized instruction tailored to suit both beginners and advanced photographers.
Benefits of Taylor Alexander’s Classes
- Camera Mastery: Learn to master camera settings and shoot in manual mode.
- Exposure and Composition: Understand exposure, composition, and lighting techniques.
- Editing Proficiency: Enhance images using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
- Business Insights: Gain valuable knowledge on branding, client management, and running a successful photography business.
Classes range from Zoom sessions at $150 to in-person one-on-one classes at $400. The comprehensive mentorship program, priced at $1750, offers ongoing support, personalized feedback, and constructive critiques, empowering photographers throughout their creative journey. Discover more at Taylor Alexander Photography.
How to Choose the Best Photography School in Tennessee
Choosing the right photography school involves several critical considerations to make an informed decision.
Steps to Finding the Perfect Photography School
- Program Scope: Ensure the school offers a broad range of courses covering various photography styles and techniques.
- Faculty Expertise: Consider the experience and background of instructors, as experienced faculty can provide valuable mentorship and insights.
- Facilities and Equipment: Look for schools with state-of-the-art resources such as digital labs, darkrooms, and studio spaces.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Assess tuition fees and explore options for financial aid, scholarships, and other funding opportunities.
- Program Format: Identify whether the school offers degree courses, certificates, or non-credit workshops and how they align with your goals.
- Location: Evaluate the school’s proximity to artistic communities for additional learning and networking opportunities.
- Professional Affiliations and Internships: Check if the school is affiliated with professional organizations and offers internships or job placements.
- Student Reviews and Campus Visits: Read reviews and testimonials, and consider visiting the campus to get a firsthand feel of the environment.
By evaluating these factors, you can find a photography school in Tennessee that aligns with your educational needs and career goals.
Photography Schools By State
Conclusion: Mastering Photography in Tennessee
Whether you’re a novice looking to explore your passion or an experienced photographer aiming to refine your skills, Tennessee offers diverse photography programs and workshops tailored to your needs. Explore the best options, from degree programs at the University of Tennessee and East Tennessee State University to specialized workshops at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
Embark on your photographic journey and master the art of photography in Tennessee.