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Bachelor of Arts

Fine Art: Photography Emphasis (B.A.)

Department of Art
As a student in photography, you will learn technical and creative skills that allow you to develop a portfolio. These skills will also prepare you to take advantage of careers in commercial photography, fine art photography, and small business ownership.
A photography student takes pictures in nature.
Learn More About the Photography Program
Request more information about the Photography program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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Fine Art Photography Introduction

This program blends photography coursework with foundational art education training, giving you a strong artistic background alongside the classroom skills needed to teach effectively. As a photography emphasis student, you will:

  • Explore diverse photographic areas, including digital photography, film photography, studio lighting, documentary photography, and location lighting. 
  • Work closely with faculty mentors to strengthen your craft, understand photographic theory, and practice creative problem‑solving. 
  • Develop a professional photography portfolio that supports careers in teaching, commercial work, or fine art.  
  • Prepare for K–12 art education roles by learning methods, curriculum design, and instructional strategies.  

This major also prepares students for a range of creative careers, including photography teacher, small business owner, and commercial/studio photographer.

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Photography, start with one of the following major-specific courses
Photography I
April 10, 2026 08:58 AM
ART 160
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History of Photography
April 10, 2026 08:57 AM
ART 307
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Advanced Photography
April 10, 2026 08:53 AM
ART 361
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Introduction to Studio Lighting
April 10, 2026 08:54 AM
ART 362
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Commercial Photography
April 10, 2026 08:56 AM
ART 366R
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Business for the Professional Artist
March 11, 2026 08:51 AM
ART 392
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Portrait Photography
April 10, 2026 08:56 AM
ART 460R
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Modern and Contemporary Art and Theory
April 09, 2026 01:37 PM
ART 404
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4-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
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See all required courses

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho students who graduated in fine art-related fields.

1 year

$29,688

Average Salary

5 years

$44,220

Average Salary

10 years

$54,821

Average Salary

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This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Photography

Graduates with a degree in Photography have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Photography

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Photo Services - July 2024
Find the Right Fit
Technical and Artistic Skills Essential for Fine Art Photography
August 17, 2026 09:22 AM
Learn how composition, lighting, camera technique, editing, and visual storytelling shape compelling fine art photography.
2 Min Read
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Historic Process - Nov 2023
Career Possibilities
What Jobs Can I Get with a Fine Arts Photography Degree?
August 14, 2026 02:30 PM
Explore opportunities in commercial photography, photo editing, visual media, art direction, galleries, and creative production.
4 Min Read
Read More

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics
AI in Photography
You will learn to master cutting edge AI editing techniques within Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to enhance your creative workflow and image quality. Our curriculum also introduces you to generative AI image making while emphasizing the essential ethical standards and professional integrity required in the modern visual arts industry.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About the Photography Program

Request more information about the Photography program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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