What is a Bachelors in Fine Arts?

What is a Bachelors in Fine Arts? I hear that a lot, usually when people find out I graduated College they ask me what my degree is, I say I received a BFA in Photography. Which to them, just means I majored in photography, but to me it is so much more than just that. It's been exactly a year to this date that my show went up on those walls, and I won't ever forget it.

First, to even be in the Fine Arts you have to apply, you have to put together a portfolio of your work and prove to your professors that you've got what it takes to become a fine artist. Once you're in, you then work on a year long project of your choosing, and it better be something you are passionate about, because you're working on it for a year...! I chose adoption, in all forms. I loved it. I loved being able to hear people's stories, to find out that there are some truly amazing and strong people out there in this world! I also then loved documenting them for the day, and giving a glimpse into their world. As a photographer, I love sharing stories through my photographs, and I love showing the good, the hope, and the joy in the world. This series took so much work, so much travel, so much money, and so many itty-bitty details. But, in the end, to see people view my gallery, and to see them in awe of these wonderful humans I photographed, it was all so worth it. I work hard, so that I can show others the good in the world. That's what I do, and I love it!

I think having a degree is a pretty big deal and a great accomplishment. Not that every photographer has to have a degree in photography to be good, but I do believe that every photographer who is a great photographer has educated themselves in the art of photography. They have taken the time to learn about the camera and not just think, "oh well if I have the newest gear then I'm qualified." No, education on any level is what qualifies you to say, "I'm a photographer, I know what I'm doing."

I mean I wouldn't just call over someone who just plays around with plumbing to fix anything in my house. I'm sorry but I don't want a Nick Miller water bottle fix in my bathroom. I want professional work and someone I can trust to do a good job. It's no different with photography. When you cut corners it shows, and your just looking for someone to do your family photos again a month later. And lets be real, whether you have human babies or fur babies, trying to get them to all behave for a photo shoot isn't the most fun thing in the world...so avoid this by getting the qualified professional in the first place. It will cost more, but it should be worth it to you to capture those precious moments of your life, and have it done right the first time. You want to love your photographs, not just feel okay about them.

That's what my degree can do for you. Calm your nerves, and have one less (major) thing to worry about.

View the full body of work for my BFA. Adoption | A Documentary of Love.

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