BFA

The Photography program at CCS blends traditional techniques and digital training—including video and motion graphics—to help students thrive in the constantly changing world of photography. Ample studio space creates a home for honing fine art skills; training in commercial settings—from events to fashion shoots to fine art images—fosters flexibility and creativity.

Students develop a unique photographic style through a combination of refined fine art skills and applied commercial studio training, which provides flexibility in the thought process and helps prepare them to deal with the constantly changing photographic field.

Exterior view of the Belle Isle Conservatory. Michael Roustemis
57%

Placement Rate
Learn More

While anyone can take a picture, photographers harness the science and technology of this expressive medium.

Professional-Level Equipment

Students have access to the most up-to-date professional-level cameras, lighting kits, studio spaces, props and equipment on campus.

Professional Options

Our alumni are successful in the many different fields of photography – fashion, product, sports, architecture, fine art, photojournalism and more.

Multi-faceted

CCS students study analog and digital techniques including digital photography, video, motion graphics and alternative media in addition to mastering the basics of developing film in our black and white darkroom and color processing labs.


Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and citywide exhibitions, student work takes center stage—pushing boundaries, forging connections, and drawing on Detroit’s energy to shape bold ideas and future creative leaders.


A student presents final work during a sponsored studio with the Creative Body Institute

Your Future, In Motion

With our extensive industry connections spanning over a century, we ensure that the active learning our students engage in aligns with industry needs, preparing them for careers.

CCS students working in a darkened photography studio photographing models with professional equipment.

Cutting-Edge Spaces for Creative Minds

Enjoy unlimited access to industry-standard facilities that prepare you for real-world production.


Internationally, nationally and right here in Detroit, Photography graduates pursue multiple avenues upon graduation

*Note: This information was gathered using Lightcast Labor Market Analytics and includes the median salary for the lifetime of a career in these specific professions. CCS alumni outcomes may vary.

ABC logo
Ford logo
General Motors logo
HBO logo
Rivian logo
Shinola Detroit logo
Technicolor logo
Car and Driver logo
Converse logo
Crate & Barrel logo
Doner logo
Getty Images logo
Hasbro logo
Reebok logo
Road & Track logo
Rocket logo
StockX logo
Tiffany & Co logo

Possible Career Choices

Architectural Photographer

Art Buyer/Art Director

Art/Photography Educator

Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Commercial Photographer

Content Creation Specialist

Digital Artist/Retoucher

Documentary Photographer

Fashion Photographer

Fine Art Photographer/Fine Artist

Forensic Photographer

Freelance Photographer

Graduate School

Healthcare Imaging

Image Buyer

Image Collection Manager

Image Stylist

Ophthalmic Photographer

Photo Editor

Photojournalist

Portrait Photographer

Producer

Sports Photographer

Studio Photographer

Videographer

Visual Media Specialist

  • A scene of two young girls looking at the camera. They have glittery makeup under their eyes and are dressed fashionably

    Evan Butka ’10

    Director of Photography

  • A Lions player scoring a touchdown, stepping over a defender from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field

    Greg Shamus ’95

    Staff Photographer, Getty Images

  • A cyclist in a white shirt, riding through the mud. The rider is splattered in mud

    Pat Daly ’09

    Freelance Photographer

Unlock Essential Admissions Info.

Fill out our inquiry form to receive personalized updates, tips, and can’t miss info from our Admissions team.