Start prepping NOW for your dream job or work-anywhere trade skills!
Build a Strong Foundation in the Photography Industry…and More
Do you have a passion for photography? Are you interested in improving your skills and exploring how to turn photography into a career? The Commercial Photography Pathway at Buena High School gives students an inside look into a career in photography, while also preparing them for college. Students will learn professional, creative, and technical skills – including how to successfully photograph people, places, and products. This pathway helps students interested in commercial photography develop their skills, talents, and creativity through both coursework and work-based learning.
What You'll Learn
From 9th grade upward, enroll in A-G approved courses to start preparing for your career in the photography industry. Classes include:
- CTE Concentrator Commercial Photography (Year 1)
- CTE Capstone Commercial Photography (Year 2)
What You’ll Do
Take what you’re learning in the classroom into the real world and experience for yourself all that awaits you in the photography industry. Immersive and insightful experiences include:
- Develop skills using professional DSLR and mirrorless cameras
- Learn Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
- Classroom projects and opportunities for real world internships with a professional mentor
Who You Can Be
Kickstart your career path with top-tier academic instruction and industry-leader insights. The Commercial Photography Pathway prepares you for potential careers such as:
- Professional Photographers Assistant
- Self-employed Commercial Photographer
- Corporate Photographer
- Digital Media Artist
- Photo Editor
- Graphic Artist
- Web Designer
Industry Average Wages: $61,000 - $80,000+/Year
Projected Industry Growth: 2%-27%
What You Need to Know
VUSD’s Commercial Photography CTE pathway provides students with the academic and technical skills needed to be successful in the visual and commercial art industry. Students will apply their learning through the creation of photographic works that address various subsets within Commercial Photography. This program is based at Buena High School and consists of two sequenced year-long courses, a concentrator followed by a capstone.
Students will learn about the demands of a career in this industry, and how to develop the skills to meet these demands. Throughout the courses, students will be detailing their creative journey and research through keeping a visual journal (physical or virtual) and will complete projects including a portfolio, website, and resume. Students enrolled in this rewarding pathway will emerge with enhanced skills, insight, and confidence.
Once you have gained the skills and knowledge in this pathway, there are many options for your next steps after high school - some you can even begin pursuing before you graduate!
1 Year
Photography Certificate - Ventura College
2 Year
Associate in Arts, Photography - Ventura College
4 Year
Bachelor in Arts, Studio Art Emphasis - California State University, Channel Islands