Introduction
In today's digital age, learning photography has never been easier. Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a professional looking to upgrade your skills, online photography courses with certificates offer a flexible and valuable learning experience. These courses not only provide knowledge but also add credibility to your portfolio. A certificate can prove your expertise, helping you attract clients or land photography jobs.
This blog will explore some of the top online photography courses that provide certification and can help you build a strong portfolio.
Why Choose Online Photography Courses with Certificates?
Before diving into the best courses available, let's first understand why opting for a photography course online with a certificate can be beneficial:
1. Flexibility and Convenience
Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Whether you are a student, working professional, or freelancer, you can easily fit the lessons into your schedule.
2. Credibility and Recognition
Many reputed institutions and platforms offer online photography courses with certificates, which can help you showcase your skills to potential clients, employers, or collaborators.
3. Hands-On Learning and Practical Projects
Some courses provide practical assignments and projects that can be directly added to your portfolio, making it stronger and more appealing.
4. Affordable Learning Option
Compared to traditional photography classes, online courses are cost-effective while providing high-quality education.
Top Online Photography Courses with Certificates
1. Coursera – Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR
Provider: Michigan State University (via Coursera)
Duration: Approximately 6 months (Self-paced)
Certificate: Yes, upon completion
Best For: Beginners and intermediate photographers
This course covers everything from camera settings to professional composition techniques. It suits those looking to enhance their photography skills using smartphones and DSLRs.
2. Udemy – Photography Masterclass: A Complete Guide to Photography
Provider: Udemy
Duration: 22+ hours of video content
Certificate: Yes, upon completion
Best For: Beginners to advanced photographers
This is one of the most comprehensive online photography courses that covers everything from lighting and composition to post-processing and business strategies.
3. Harvard University – Digital Photography Course
Provider: Harvard University (via Alison)
Duration: Self-paced
Certificate: Yes (Paid)
Best For: Those looking for an Ivy League certification
Harvard's digital photography course teaches the fundamentals of digital photography, including exposure, composition, and image editing.
4. The Great Courses – National Geographic Masters of Photography
Provider: The Great Courses
Duration: 24 lessons (Each lesson is around 30 minutes)
Certificate: Yes
Best For: Photography enthusiasts and professionals
This course features National Geographic photographers sharing their expert insights and tips. It's an excellent course for those looking to refine their artistic vision.
5. LinkedIn Learning – Photography Foundations: Exposure
Provider: LinkedIn Learning
Duration: 2-3 hours
Certificate: Yes
Best For: Beginners who want to master exposure settings
This course helps learners understand how to control exposure settings to capture high-quality images.
6. Skillshare – Fundamentals of DSLR Photography
Provider: Skillshare
Duration: 2 hours
Certificate: Yes
Best For: Beginners
It is a short, engaging course that teaches DSLR basics, camera settings, and fundamental photography techniques.
7. Shaw Academy – Online Photography Course
Provider: Shaw Academy
Duration: 4 weeks
Certificate: Yes (Accredited)
Best For: Those looking for structured, professional training
Shaw Academy's course covers everything from camera functions to editing and retouching.
8. NY Institute of Photography (NYIP) – Professional Photography Course
Provider: NYIP
Duration: Self-paced (Typically 6-12 months)
Certificate: Yes, with accreditation
Best For: Aspiring professional photographers
NYIP's course is one of the most well-recognized photography courses online, covering business aspects of photography.
How These Courses Enhance Your Portfolio
A well-structured online photography course with certification can significantly improve your portfolio. Here's how:
1. Showcases Your Skills Professionally
Adding a certified course to your portfolio assures potential clients you have undergone structured learning and training.
2. Demonstrates Technical Knowledge
Many of these courses teach in-depth techniques on exposure, composition, and lighting, which will be evident in your work.
3. Build a Strong Portfolio with Assignments
Some courses provide hands-on projects and assignments that can be directly added to your portfolio, making it more compelling.
4. Boosts Your Credibility in the Industry
Certifications from well-known platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Harvard can add a layer of professionalism to your profile.
5. Helps You Specialize in Different Genres
Whether it's portrait, landscape, wildlife, or product photography, many courses focus on specific genres to help you build expertise.
Conclusion
Enrolling in a photography course online with a certificate is a great way to enhance your skills and build an impressive portfolio. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, these courses provide valuable knowledge, hands-on experience, and credibility. Investing in the right course can open doors to exciting photography opportunities and help you establish yourself in the industry.
If you're serious about making a career in photography or want to improve your skills, consider signing up for one of these online photography courses with certificates today!
