New
Digital Photography
Digital Photography
Capture Your Future in Photography: Creative Skills, Career Ready
Program Overview
Elevate your photography skills and turn your passion into a career with College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) new Digital Photography program, coming Fall 2025. This program will help you build a strong foundation in photography essentials such as composition and lighting and gain hands-on experience in digital editing and advanced techniques. Classes in video production, web design, and studio lighting will ensure you are well-prepared for a dynamic career in today's creative and commercial industries.
From portrait, landscape, and event photography to business strategy and personal finance, you will develop a diverse skill set that goes beyond the camera. Skills in audio production and digital publishing will further enhance your multimedia capabilities. Concluding with a capstone project, you will be ready to showcase your artistic and technical skills with confidence, positioning you for success in a variety of professional photography paths.
Learning Opportunities
- Develop Your Creative Style: Master the art of visual storytelling and learn to compose images that capture attention and communicate powerful narratives.
- Capture Stunning Images: Gain hands-on experience with professional DSLR and mirrorless cameras in various types of lighting and environments.
- Master Editing Skills: Become proficient in industry-standard photo-editing software to refine and enhance your images into polished, professional-level work.
- Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills in a compelling portfolio to attract potential employers and clients.
- Prepare for Industry Success: Learn essential skills, from marketing your services to managing products and navigating the business side of photography.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Digital Photography – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Cost:
$11,720
Digital Photography – Basic Technical Certificate
Cost:
$5,214
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Career Opportunities
192
Annual Openings*
$
35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$
73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects. May use lighting equipment to enhance a subject’s appearance. May use editing software to produce finished images and prints. Includes commercial and industrial photographers, scientific photographers, and photojournalists.
41
Annual Openings*
$
20.06
Hourly Median Wage*
$
41,724
Annual Median Salary
9.5
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Digital Photography as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
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