For Zimmerman, though, a 2001 graduate of Brooks Institute of Photography, a photography degree provided her with an edge over other professionals. “It may have taken another ten years to get to where I am [had I not gone to Brooks]. If you are doing a trial and error learning curve, it’s a pretty big learning curve versus doing it eight to 16 hours a day for three years where you are given so many assignments that are all extremely technical.”

If you are interested in attending college for photography, there is no shortage of options. According to the Princeton Review, 269 art, technical and city colleges offer degrees in photography. Seventeen others offer degrees in photojournalism.

Train your eye.
Having a “good eye,” or an ability to identify a good shot, is central to being a good photographer. A good eye doesn’t always come naturally. “When I started I didn’t have the best eye. I saw other people in the classroom who had just started shooting and I felt like, ‘Wait. Am I going to be good at this?’ So much of it is about getting more in touch with who you are. It takes a lot of practice,” says Zimmerman.

Eventually your “eye” creates a signature style which helps a freelance photographer, in particular, differentiate herself from the competition. “I kind of became the queen of this vibrant color photography with movement during the late afternoon and evening,” says Schiffman.

Create a portfolio.
A portfolio is a compilation of your work for potential clients to look at when considering hiring you. In the 1970s, Schiffman hand-delivered her portfolio to her first place of employment, A&M Records. But, if you want to be competitive in today’s market, a website portfolio is essential.