Photography: Get an MFA/PhD or go Pro?

[mlt_unc]

Just wondering how everyone decided between going to grad school or entering the professional realm?

I'm at that crossroads where I have an offer to go to grad school for photography but am wondering if it's worth it after four years of undergrad in the field, multiple exhibitions (from local to international), and two years working in a studio/TA-ing? (I'm more interested in taking artistic photos than doing commercial work) I have a professor that has offered to allow me to work in her personal studio until I can afford to build my own.

What did you base your decision to go to grad school on? What is your background like?

I'm really looking for help in making this tough decision.

[Fool4nine]

Just wondering how everyone decided between going to grad school or entering the professional realm?

I'm at that crossroads where I have an offer to go to grad school for photography but am wondering if it's worth it after four years of undergrad in the field, multiple exhibitions (from local to international), and two years working in a studio/TA-ing? (I'm more interested in taking artistic photos than doing commercial work) I have a professor that has offered to allow me to work in her personal studio until I can afford to build my own.

What did you base your decision to go to grad school on? What is your background like?

I'm really looking for help in making this tough decision.

If you have no desire to teach, or do not feel you may need teaching to put food on the table while you pursue "art" then likely you should not go to grad school. I'm going to grad school because:

1) I really like teaching and want to teach when not exhibiting or making art.

2) Grad school helps one to learn how to write grants to fund projects, and how to collaborate with other artists on projects.

3) Grad school teaches you how to "talk" art speak which can help when speaking with galleries, museums and collectors.

4) In grad school you become exposed to many other artists and media and may learn great new ways to approach your own art making.

5) It can also open many doors and make important connections for you.

If you are already getting international exhibitions, then perhaps your time is better spent out of school. But only you can make that call.

Edited March 6, 2012 by Fool4nine

[michaelwebster]

you could also go to grad school to improve your artwork.