Entry

It is possible to become a photographer with no formal education beyond school except in certain areas. For example, photographic work in scientific and engineering research generally requires an engineering background. Photography is a craft and thus the more a person practices the better he gets. 

It is essentially a training of the eye, and thus no amount of training enables a photographer to `see things' without an intrinsic inner ability. Equipment, training, are all secondary-some of the masters have worked with very simple equipment, though of course sophisticated equipment can make all the difference. But the basic prerequisite is an intelligent, curious and perceptive mind.

Training

Quite a large number of institutions are now offering courses in photography. These include a number of government-recognized institutions providing diploma courses/training in photography. The courses vary from six months to three years duration in the different institutions.

Personal Attributes

An interest in visuals, attentiveness to color and shape and shadow. Visual imagination, eye for detail and composition; artistic sensitivity; creativity; good powers of observation; ability to work quickly under pressure; business sense.