Updated on Dec 13, 2024 03:47 IST
Anshuman Singh

Anshuman SinghSenior Executive - Content

As technology has advanced, photography is not just a hobby anymore, and is an impactful creative discipline worthy of being taught and studied. More and more candidates are opting to obtain a formal degree in photography. A photography course enables candidates to know how to take impeccable pictures using adequate light, understand the utility of different camera parts, and much more.
A candidate must have cleared the 12th grade to opt for this course. However, skills are preferred in this field over a diploma, graduation, or certificate in a photography course. Still, opting for photography programs can enhance your skills and shape your future by helping you become an exceptional photographer.
Typically, a photography course encourages candidates to broaden their awareness and take new approaches to this creative stream. In addition, they are also motivated to build a portfolio that reflects their unique style as well as their understanding of technique, space, light, colour, and composition.

Syllabus – Important Facts For Photography

The important facts related to Photography course are given below:

Bachelor of Arts in Photography: BA in Photography is a 3-year undergraduate course that provides students with an extensive understanding of the visual and technical skills required to question and reflect on visual languages. 
Diploma in Photography: It is a 1-year course that allows students to develop an individual photographic attitude and helps them gain in-depth information on film and motion design, illustration, game design, communications design, and photography.

BA (Hons) Photography course: It is an innovative undergraduate 3-years course that will hone skills and develop a unique approach to photography. Once the candidates complete this course, they evolve professionally by perceiving growth in their photography career according to their specialisations.  

MFA (Master of Fine Arts): It is a post-graduation program for 2-years, helping students prepare for their careers in advertising agencies, print publications, TV channels, E-magazines, production houses, etc. This course is recognised as a terminal degree for advanced photographers and those intending to teach at the college level.

Scope In India: In the digital era, with the upsurge in advertising, the fashion industry, and social media, the profession of photography is a lucrative and thrilling career option that one may choose. Until the Information Age, which commenced in the mid-20th century, most individuals regarded this profession as a hobby only. However, today photography has changed the vision of the world and emerged in a big way by enabling people to make ample money by clicking compelling photos and capturing fascinating videos.

General Examination pattern: Students who opt to study the photography syllabus are tested based on the marks they score in the entrance exams. Students who aspire to become renowned photographers must prepare well for these entrance exams to get admission in the top-rated colleges offering photography courses in India. Each university conducts an aptitude test and written assessment test that the candidate must qualify for during the admission process.

List of Subjects in Photography Course

Are you considering mastering the photography syllabus? It is imperative to have a detailed understanding of all the subjects offered in the photography course. The following section expounds on the Photography Course Subjects.

Typical Core Subjects for Photography
Subject Title Subject Details
Basics of Digital Photography This course covers a range of topics, including how the camera works, shutter speed, understanding histograms, depth of field, white balance, long/short exposure, soft focus, and time-lapse photography, and also provides extensive knowledge about all types of camera lenses. 
Applications of Portrait Photography The module aims at perfecting students' individual or group portrait photography, using adequate lighting, effective backdrops, and perfect poses.
Conceptual Photography The subjects deal with contemporary art in which images are primarily conceptual. In his type of photography, the subject matter is secondary to the idea behind the photo.
On-Location Photography On-location photography is an on-location photo shoot that could be anywhere but outside the studio. It teaches how to make the most of photos, be it any location such as a house, hospital, party venue, etc.
Sports Photography The module educates students on taking perfect pictures of a sportsperson in action. It also briefs on how to click detailed shots, and story-telling images of the game or event.
Typical Elective Subjects for Photography
Subject Title Subject Details
Vision Inspired Photography How to capture the true essence of what is right in front of us? This is what the subject informs on. While living in a fast-paced world, it is essential to know the tactics of capturing the mood and ambience in images, to tell a story. 
Natural Light Portraits The subject briefs on simple ideas that facilitate image composition and posing and allow the conversion of an ordinary image into a remarkable one. 
The Evolution of Photography This module covers the history of photography, where it began, how it started and gained popularity, its impact on the world, etc.
Photoshop Advanced Students are taught the true essence of photoshop once they start this module. This subject enables students to familiarise themselves with the software patches and healing brushes. It teaches them how to manipulate smiles on faces, correct noses, remove blemishes, etc.
Portfolio of Photographs Enabling students to build a portfolio of photos is necessary to put their best work on full display. It facilitates aspirants in analysing where their skill might be lacking. The subject also helps them determine if there is any potential scope of improvement.

Detailed Syllabus for Photography

The photography syllabus may be vast, but knowing everything you need to study and focus on will help you prepare well for this course. While the photography course syllabus may vary from one college to another, there will be no changes in the subjects. Let's get a detailed understanding of the syllabus for the photography course: 

Semester Core/Elective Subject Title Subject Details
1st Digital Photography Digital Photography The subjects teach students about the practical usage of cameras that contain a plethora of electronic photodetectors to produce impactful images instead of exposure to photographic film.
2nd Cinematography Cinematography Cinematography deals with the art of technology for motion picture photography. The subject covers the general composition of the scene, choice of cameras, lenses, lighting of the set, integration of special effects, etc.
3rd Artistic Visual Practice Artistic Visual Practice Practising visual arts is also essential to excel as a photographer. The visual arts include printmaking, design, drawing, sculpture, filmmaking, editing, architecture, textile, painting, oil, acrylic, etc. 
4th Photography as cultural technology Photography as cultural technology Students are informed about effectively telling people about a specific culture by showing their work (photographs).
5th Internship Semester Internship Semester The internship gauges whether students' photographs tell a story or not!
6th BA Documentation Presentation  Presentation Methods A business analyst plan is necessary to identify the collection of photography skill development tasks that are turned in on time or inform if something is missing that needs to be added.

Specialisations Offered in Photography

Photography is a vast field which offers many specialisations like portrait photography, wedding photography, fashion photography etc. The specialisations and the subjects taught in this field are discussed below:

Specialisation Subjects Details
Portrait Photography
  • Lifestyle
  • Fine Art Portrait
  • Traditional, Environmental and candid
Opting for this specialised course will help students develop their skills and take pictures of individuals, groups, or still action to make the time permanent, at least in photography. 
Photojournalism
  • Arrangements of objects
  • The natural world and abstractions
  • Focus on ‘What’ is a photograph: the topic, and image
Students opting for this specialised course aspire to become news photographers. Thus, this course helps develop proficiency by allowing them to create images in a news format to cover stories for different platforms, including blogs, websites, or news outlets.
Digital Image Specialist
  • Cinematography
  • Graphic and Interior Design
  • Computer Animation
  • Film
  • Music Production
To deal with the colour correction smoothly, choose this specialised course. It helps students digitally manipulate images to print or archive them. Additionally, it will also facilitate the creation of digital renderings of videos, photos, films, or graphic design images.
Fashion Photographer
  • Fashion and glamour photography
  • Natural Light Fashion / Beauty Photography
  • Editorial Fashion Photography
Always looking forward to capturing special moments, be it any occasion? Why not opt for this specialised course which will enhance your photographic sense and help you become competent in seizing the essence of the moment, festivities, and occasions, editing photos after the event, and delivering the final product. 
Event Photographer
  • Camera settings
  • Artificial Light Photography
  • Picture Framing and Composition
  • Picture Processing with Adobe Photoshop
Opt for this specialised course to enhance a photographic sense that leads to seizing the essence of the moment, festivities, and occasions—furthermore, editing photos after the event and delivering the final product.

Books and Authors Related to Photography

The following table lists compelling photography books in the market that you surely would not want to miss:

Book Title Authors Description
The Complete Guide to Digital Photography Ian Farrell The book comprises 16 chapters that will help you learn about the essentials of photography, camera kits and equipment, metering, focusing, manual settings, composition, lenses, focal length, image resolution, and much more.
Complete Encyclopaedia of Photography Michael Langford The book enlightens aspiring photographers about the photographer's art cover's styles, techniques, processes, equipment, and practical applications. 
Colour printing in practice  Jack Taylor The author explains the steps of colour printing efficiently in this book. The book briefly describes the technical basis of every photography aspect, such as the diffusion system, Cibachrome system, image transfer, printing colour negatives, and much more.
Hand Book of Photography (5th edition) Tom Ang A compelling book that guides readers through everything needed to know about digital photography. The author has rendered practical tips on demystifying the technical elements of photography that helps take impressive shots each time.
Basic Techniques of Photography- An Ansel Adams Guide  Ansel Adams The book thoroughly briefs on the fundamentals of photography by focusing on crucial chapters on exposure and development. This book makes the reader understand darkroom and digital work concepts, including alternative processes such as cyanotypes, gum printing, salt printing, and platinum printing.

Entrance Exam for Photography

An entrance exam evaluates students' eligibility for admission to a diploma or degree courses offered by recognised Indian universities. Listed below are the top entrance exams that help you get admission to photography courses in the top Indian colleges: 

  • AAFT GEE
  •  Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film Entrance Test
  • JNAFAU FADEE
  • Daily School of Photography Entrance Exam
  • AU Entrance Exam

Candidates under the stream of Humanities, Science, Commerce, Arts, Mass Communication, Teaching & Journalism are allowed enrollment for this examination. Every college or university will conduct an entrance examination for selecting and allowing candidates to opt for the photography course in India as a component of the admission process.

Syllabus for Distance program in Photography

Do you want to continue the job of your interest without any obstruction? Or you might be looking to avail of flexible studying hours that eliminates the commute and offers more networking opportunities! Whatever be the reason, distance learning is an excellent way for students who cannot afford to invest their whole day to access the study material for this course.
Opting for a distance program in photography will allow you to hone your time management skills by letting you save time. The best part is that the syllabus for the distance program is similar to the regular photography courses in India. However, there might be some changes when assessing a candidate's competency and skill set, based on which they are selected and get admission for the course.

Some of the best institutions offering distance education programs in photography include IMTS Institute, University of Mumbai, Sir J.J Institute of Applied Art, and ICAT Design & Media College.

Top Colleges for Photography

Have a look at the list of the top 7 colleges that allows you to access the best courses in photography for students all across India:

S.No College/University/Institution Syllabus
1. National Institute of Design, Ahmadabad To be uploaded soon
2. Delhi College of Photography To be uploaded soon
3. Creative Hut Institute of Photography, Kerala To be uploaded soon
4. National Institute of Photography, Mumbai To be uploaded soon
5. Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University, Hyderabad To be uploaded soon
6. Raviraj Institute of Art and Culture, Coimbatore To be uploaded soon
7. World University of Design, Sonepat To be uploaded soon

FAQs on Photography Syllabus

Q. What is the definition of photography?

A. Photography is the art, application, and practice of creating compelling images by capturing light rays on a light-sensitive recording medium. Primarily, the process of taking pictures is based on two pursuits. The first one is the technique of setting up the camera, and the second includes the recording medium to capture images in a controlled way. 

Q. What is the scope of photography in India and abroad?

A. A photography career has reached new heights in the digital era. Showcasing your skills, one can earn tremendously and make ample money in this lucrative business stream. With the rise of social media and digitisation, the demand for photographers has seen a significant increase in India and all across the globe, be it a photographer for weddings, travels, fashion, wildlife, commercial products, etc. Numerous photographers are working in the advertising industry and generating significant revenue. Photographers are also witnessing a remarkable rise by clicking attractive pictures of trendy foods, which is relatively a new concept, nevertheless becoming massively popular. All in all, photographers in India earn an impressive income. Moreover, if they can maximise their potential and develop their skills to excel in this field, the sky's the limit.

Q. What does a Photography degree focus on?

A. BA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) in photography primarily aims at making candidates skilled in hands-on instruction in the technical and creative aspects of visual art. Predominantly, BA in photography includes studio lighting, digital photography, photography techniques, graphic design, colour theory, and artwork critique.

Q. What are the 7 principles of photography?

A. Listed below are the basic 7 principles of photography: 
  • Balance
  • Pattern
  • Rhythm
  • Unity
  • Contrast
  • Emphasis
  • Movement
These art and design principles in photography form the foundation of visual arts that empowers photographers to take greater control of their photographic practice.

Q. Is photography tough?

A. The answer to this question may vary from person to person. For some people, photography is easy; however, some individuals may experience photography another way. In general, serious photography tends to be a set of discrete tasks to perform diligently, making it reasonably tricky. However, opting for BFA photography makes things relatively easy by enhancing your understanding and providing in-depth knowledge in this field.  

Q. What are the eligibility criteria for a diploma in photography?

A. An aspirant must have cleared the 12th examination to become eligible for a diploma course. The duration of this course is 1 year. Candidates get an opportunity to polish their skills by grabbing theoretical knowledge and practical training on the basics of photography. The best part is that science, arts, and commerce students can opt for the photography course. 

Q. What are all types of photography courses students can opt for?

A. Primarily, there are 3 types of programs that aspirants can opt for, including:
  • Certificate in Photography / Camera & Photography / Digital Photography / Advanced Photography & Photo Journalism- The duration of all these certificate courses in photography ranges from 3 to 6 months or 1 year. 
  •  Diploma in Photography / Digital Photography- The duration of the diploma course is 1 year. 
  • B.A. in Visual Arts and Photography / B.A. (Hons) Communication Design & Photography - The duration of these undergraduate degree courses is 3 years. 

Q. What is the average fee structure for the photography course?

A. One needs to spend between INR 50,000 to INR 2,50,000 per annum for a professional photography course (diploma and degree). However, the fee structure varies as per the location of the institute, equipment & infrastructure, and courses’ specialisations.

Q. What skills are required to be a good photographer?

A. One can be an impeccable photographer if one can develop the skills listed below in this lucrative course:
  1. Technical photography skills
  2.  Creativity
  3. Control on focus
  4. Concentrate on moving subjects
  5. Robust networking skills
  6. Setting the correct white balance

Q. How to become a photojournalist?

A. See and analyse the work of masters, people already skilled in photography. Understand philosophy in the photojournalism field. However, this will require extensive passion and energy. Make investments. Learn under the guidance and showcase your work to the public.

Q. What is the purpose of photography?

A. The primary purpose of photography is to capture moments and tell a story to the audience through photographed work and by showcasing the pictures clicked. 

Q. How does photography contribute to adding value to society?

A. Photography is best known for showcasing an individual’s mind allowing them to convey messages effectively. It is visually communicative and can be read and comprehended by most. 

Q. Can photography change the way we see the world?

A. Yes, photography can immerse you deeper into an experience and enhance the experience of seeing photos. 

Q. Which course is best for photography?

A. Listed below are the best photography courses one can opt for:
  • The art of photography course.
  • Computational photography.
  • Photography composition.
  • Digital photography course.
  • In Colour photography course.

Popular Photography Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Photography Colleges in India. Learn more about these Photography colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1.3 L - 8.4 L
4.35 - 5.5 LPA

Photography Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
4 L
5.56 LPA

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25 K - 35 K
1 Course
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1 Course
75.32 K
7.46 LPA

Popular Private Photography Colleges in India

1.3 L - 8.4 L
4.35 - 5.5 LPA

Photography Applications open. Apply Now

2.1 L

Photography Applications open till Jan 13, 2025. Apply Now

2.46 L

Photography Applications open till Jan 13, 2025. Apply Now

4 Courses

Popular Photography UG Courses

Following are the most popular Photography UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Photography PG Courses

Following are the most popular Photography PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Popular Photography Specializations

Following are the most popular Photography Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Photography. Students interested in pursuing a career on Photography, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

2 Jan ' 25 - 1 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

2 Jan ' 25 - 2 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process Online Fee

Jan '25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Application Form Filling

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Application Last Date

TENTATIVE

Aug '24

NSD Exam 2024 Workshop cum interview

TENTATIVE

Jun '24 - Jul '24

NSD Entrance Exam Registrations 2024

TENTATIVE

Feb '25 - Mar '25

PUBDET 2025 Applications

TENTATIVE

Jun '25 - Jul '25

PUBDET 2025 Admit Card

TENTATIVE
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Answered a month ago

There is no explicit details available at about the ranking of Light and Life Academy as it offers quite unique range of PG Diplomas.  However, in the year 2020, Knowledge Review Magazine identified Life and Light Academy as one of the top 10 fine arts course providers in whole India. 

 

 

7388054
Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

According to some unofficial sources, only 240 students can do PG Diploma in Professional Fashion Photography and Documentary Filmmaking at Light and Life Academy as there are only 240 seats available at Life and Light Academy. 

7388054
Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

You can get admission in Professional Travel, Nature and Fine Art Photography and Documentry Filmaking at Light and Life Academy by applying for these particular course on the application form and directly through the Academy. 

7388054
Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

A photography career can be pursued by anybody who has an underlying passion for it. However, some of the skills that you need in order to be up in the game include:

Technical skills 

  1. Understanding of all the settings and modes of a camera
  2. Understanding the working of different lenses, tripods, coverin

...more

S

Syed Aquib Ur Rahman

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Some of the major responsibilities of a photographer include:

  1. Communicating with clients to understand their needs
  2. Choosing and setting up locations
  3. Choosing and setting up photography equipment 
  4. Taking photos
  5. Editing photos using different software programs
  6. Selling photos or promoting business in other w

...more

S

Syed Aquib Ur Rahman

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Types of PhotographyDescription
Abstract PhotographyFocuses on shape, color, pattern, and texture. There are no set rules, allowing for creativity in capturing different elements within the composition.
Art PhotographyCaptures the artist’s perceptions and emotions, aiming to express a personal vision rather than simply what the camera sees.
Architectural PhotographyHighlights the aesthetics of buildings and structures, including diverse forms such as tall buildings, estates, bridges, and warehouses.
Urban PhotographyEncapsulates people in their daily lives, as well as objects, urban landscapes, and surreal moments, capturing a decisive moment or idea.
Portrait PhotographyFocuses on capturing the physical appearance and emotions of a person, often highlighting key facial features or body posture.
Advertising PhotographyAims to market or promote a product or idea, with the goal of generating consumer interest and driving sales.
Aerial PhotographyInvolves capturing scenes from a high vantage point, creating stunning images of various locations.
Underwater PhotographyRequires specialised diving equipment and underwater cameras to capture images below the water’s surface.
Black and White PhotographyUtilizes shades from white to black, excluding color, to focus on contrast, texture, and composition.
Fashion PhotographyCaptures clothing, jewelry, and accessories, often with a vibrant, eye-catching aesthetic that’s hard to ignore.
PhotojournalismUses storytelling techniques to visually convey a story, aiming to capture emotions and moments in time.
Food PhotographyHighlights the appeal of food, often aiming to evoke the desire to taste it, commonly seen on social media.
Minimalist PhotographyEmphasizes simplicity and harmony, using few elements in the composition to create a sense of visual peace.
Astronomical PhotographyAlso known as astrophotography, it captures celestial bodies like planets, comets, and satellites, and is challenging due to technical requirements.
Sports PhotographyA branch of photojournalism focused on capturing critical moments in sports events, highlighting athletes in action.
Lifestyle PhotographyTransforms everyday moments into artistic compositions, often capturing the essence of daily life.

S

Syed Aquib Ur Rahman

Contributor-Level 9

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