Best Countries to Study Photography in 2025

The best countries to study photography are the USA, Canada, Germany, Australia, France, Switzerland, India, and Japan. These countries host the top ranking universities that offer various photography programs and ample job opportunities. Photography is experiencing rapid growth as there is a continuous demand for capturing moments, conveying stories, communicating messages, and promoting products by individuals and businesses alike.
Although a degree is not mandatory for pursuing a photography career, obtaining one offers several advantages. It allows individuals to acquire fundamental techniques, comprehend the industry's history and evolution, explore advanced photography equipment available in academic institutions, and receive valuable feedback and guidance from industry experts and professionals.

Furthermore, possessing a degree from a prestigious university renowned for its exceptional photography programs can enhance your application. This not only demonstrates proficiency in the field but also showcases employability skills such as problem-solving, independence, and professionalism to potential clients and employers. Moreover, photography is becoming a fast-growing industry, and individuals with talent can pursue photography as a hobby or work as freelancers.

Based on projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for photographers are expected to increase by 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, aligning closely with the average growth rate across all occupations. On average, approximately 13,900 new openings for photographers are anticipated each year over the decade.

If you are an aspiring photographer and want to pursue a successful career, the best countries you need to consider are given in this article.

Which study is best for photography?

People who want to learn about photography can pursue photography courses with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) or Mass Communication (BMM). Some popular courses include a BA in Visual Arts and Photography, a BFA in Photography, an MA in Commercial Photography and Cinematography, a Certificate in Photography, and a Diploma in Photography. Many businesses employ skilled photographers for various purposes like wedding coverage, corporate events, media, and entertainment.

Which colleges are best for photography?

In the United States, Rhode Island School of Design and Parsons School of Design stand out as top colleges for photography. Tokyo Zokei University, located in Tokyo, Japan, is also renowned for its comprehensive curriculum covering various genres of photography. The university emphasizes photography as a form of visual expression, encompassing documentation, art, and social commentary. Its Photography Major specifically focuses on documentary and creative photography, examining how the visual medium interacts with society.

Top 8 Countries to Study Photography

The top 8 countries to pursue Photography for international students are,

1.      USA
2.      Canada
3.      Germany
4.      Australia
5.      France
6.      Switzerland
7.      India
8.      Japan

1. United States of America

Reason: Basic to Advanced techniques, Advanced equipment, Job opportunities & Internship programs

The USA, which is famous for its serene landscapes, offers a wide range of photography programs. Schools like the Art Institute of Chicago, Rhode Island School of Design, and San Francisco Art Institute are some examples. The students studying in the American universities are asked to create portfolios of their work at the end of their degree program, which are reviewed by professors. These portfolios help them find jobs or apply to postgraduate programs after they graduate.

Bachelor’s programs in photography teach students basic techniques like black and white or color photography, digital photography, darkroom skills, and color balance. Students use different equipment to learn how to take pictures of both 2-D and 3-D things, use 35mm cameras, and understand lenses, tripods, and film.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Rhode Island School of Design	4	BFA in Photography	4 years
Parson School of Design	3	MFA in Photography	2 years
Rochester Institute of Technology	1001-1200	MFA in photography and related media	2 years
University of Alabama	951-1000	MA in Studio Art- Photography	2 years

2. Canada

Reason: Competitive salary, practical experience, quality education
After the USA, the next comes Canada with the majestic Rocky Mountains in the west and three oceans surrounding its borders. Canada is considered the perfect spot for students who wish to pursue photography. Pursuing a photography program in Canada has several advantages including a high salary, practical experience, various job opportunities, and perfect work-life balance.

Some of the career opportunities in Canada for photographers include Commercial photography, Fine Art photography, Wedding photography, Portrait photography, Wildlife Photography, etc. Canadian universities provide comprehensive photography education, covering everything from darkroom techniques to digital photography. These institutions offer excellent study environments equipped with essential infrastructure, resources, and experienced faculty.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Ryerson University School of Image Arts	851	BFA in Photography	4 years
Ontario College of Art and Design University	51	BFA in Photography	4 years
Nova Scotia College of Art and Design	-	BFA in Photography	4 years
Ryerson University	851-900	Bachelor of fine arts in image arts: Photography Studies	4 years

3. Germany

Reason: No tuition fee, Quality education, Practical Training
The third on the list is Germany, located at the heart of Europe, which is known for its quality education and top universities. The universities in Germany focus on the educational approach called "praxis," where students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world activities. Therefore, pursuing photography studies in this country involves engaging in various trips, exhibitions, and projects, which effectively equip students for their future careers.

The main advantage of pursuing higher education in public universities in Germany is that students have to pay either less or no tuition fees. Students may only need to pay for administration, transportation, and other fees each semester, depending on the university.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Koln International School of Design	-	Bachelors in Integrated Design	4 years
University of Europe for Applied Sciences	9681	BA Photography	3 years
SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences	5989	MA Photography	2 years
Koln International School of Design	-	Masters in Integrated Design	2 years

4. Australia

Reasons: Various courses, Diverse Cultures, Support for International Students

Following Germany the next in line is Australia famously known as the "Land Down Under”. It offers a culturally diverse environment and a laid-back lifestyle for students. With a choice of 22,000 courses across 1,100 universities and institutions, students can earn globally recognized degrees, explore various scholarship opportunities, and receive education from world-renowned instructors. One factor that attracts international students to study in Australia is that those with a subclass 500 visa can work for up to 20 hours per week and full-time on weekends.

Among the leading universities in Australia for pursuing photography courses is Photography Studies College, which has received multiple awards and achieved an impressive overall student satisfaction rate of 92%. This encompasses teaching quality, industry events, and learner engagement. 

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Photography Studies College	-	Bachelor of Photography	3 years
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology	140	BA Photography	3 years
University of Notre Dame	1401	BA in Photomedia	3 years
University of Southern Queensland	410	Bachelor of Communication and Media (Professional photography)	3 years

5. France

Reasons: Top Universities, Affordable education, high-end equipment, Experienced instructors

The fifth comes France, the birthplace of photography, which saw the first photograph taken in 1826 by French inventor Joseph Nicéphore Niépce. Paris, known as the city of lights, is celebrated worldwide for its excellence in fashion photography, commercial photography, photojournalism, and fine arts. The city boasts numerous museums and galleries dedicated to photography and hosts various internationally recognized photo festivals.

In French universities, photography classes offer students access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, with instruction provided by successful professionals in the field. While some classes are taught in English, the majority are conducted in French, providing international students with an excellent opportunity to become fluent in a new language while studying.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Paris College of Art	101	MFA in Photography	2 years
Speos International Photography School	-	Professional photography and videography	3 years
Paris College of Art	101	BFA in Photography	4 years
Paris College of Art	101	MA in Fashion film and photography	1 year

6. Switzerland

Reasons:  Low unemployment rate, Reasonable fees, Safest country, high-quality education, Stable economy

Followed by France is Switzerland, a country in central Europe, which is consistently ranked among the top countries for photography studies. Even though the education is top-notch, the fees are reasonable, and many universities offer scholarships for both Swiss and international students. Students are exposed to studies through practical learning and performing different projects with Swiss Businesses. Switzerland's stable economy and low unemployment rate enhance the prospects of securing employment immediately after graduation.

Switzerland is famous for its mountains, chocolates, and high-quality watches. It's also known as one of the safest places globally, making it a great choice for international students who worry about safety. Switzerland has many excellent businesses, and popular tourist spots, and provides paid internship opportunities as part of the course while studying.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Vevey Vocational Educational Center	-	Full-time Photographer	4 years+ 6 month paid internship
Zurich University of Arts	31	BFA in Photography	3 years
Webster University	5636	BA in Photography	3 years
Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts	1698	BFA in Photography	3 years

7. India

Reasons: Most affordable, quality education, cultural diversity
India on its seventh in the list is one of the best countries to study photography where both accommodation and education costs are lower compared to Western nations. Rich in culture, students can immerse themselves in experiencing and celebrating various festivals and cuisines while enjoying the lifestyle. India boasts numerous renowned and celebrity photographers such as Raghu Rai, Dabboo Ratnani, Atul Kasbekar, Dayanita Singh, and many more.

Many colleges in India provide photography courses with access to advanced equipment and facilities. Faculty members often consist of renowned Indian photographers, filmmakers, and other notable figures in the field. 

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
National Institute of Photography	51-100	Master of Design in Photography Design	2.5 years
Delhi College of Photography	-	Diploma in Commercial Photography	9 months
Sir JJ Institute of Applied Arts, Light and Life Academy	-	BFA in Photography	4 years
The One School Goa	-	Certificate in Professional Photography	1 year

8. Japan

Reasons: Advanced technologies, quality education, skilled tutors

Last but not least is The Land of Rising Sun, Japan. It is one of the top countries when it comes to technology and education.  It is also said that the history of photography in Japan began during the Edo period and many Japanese photographers traveled to Nagasaki to study the photographic process. One of the Japanese photographic styles adopted by photographers around the world is their minimalistic approach. This style is characterized by clean lines, negative space, and the use of natural light to create striking and thought-provoking images.

Photography education in Japan primarily focuses on mastering theory and artistic expression. This approach enables students to develop a thorough understanding of photography's various aspects and its societal implications, preparing them to become proficient in photography upon graduation.

Universities	QS World University Ranking	Courses	Duration
Tokyo Zekei University	7635	Photography major- Department of Design	4 years
Nihon University	651-700	BA in Photography	3 years
Nippon Photography Institute	-	Photography course	3 years
Tokyo Polytechnic University	91	BA in Photography	3 years

Conclusion

Photography is booming right now. Students who are passionate about pursuing it as a career need determination, creativity, and hard work to excel in this field. We hope this article will help you choose the best country to study photography based on your requirements.

FAQ

1. What is the best place to study photography?

The best places to study photography are

• Yale University School of Art
• Rochester Institute of Technology
• Parsons School of Design
• Rhode Island School of Design
• Savannah College of Art and Design
• Columbia College Chicago
• University of Arizona
• Bard College

2. Which country is famous for photography?

The USA is famous for Photography where photographers get numerous job opportunities when compared to any other country in the world.

3. What photography is high in demand?

Fashion photography and portrait photography are lucrative niches with high demand, making entry into these fields challenging. However, if you possess confidence in your vision and skills, you can pursue them successfully.

4. Where is the most money in Photography?

Some of the highest paying photographer jobs are

• Portrait Photography
• Fashion Photography
• Scientific Photography
• Wedding photography
• Commercial photography
• News Photography

5. Which countries are best for photographer jobs?

France is well-known for its rich arts and culture scene, offering more opportunities for photographers. With its wealth of history, stunning landscapes, and thriving fashion industry, the country provides various chances for photographers to display their skills.