Top 11 Product Photographer Certifications

Certifications for product photographers in the job market are important for a few reasons. First, certifications demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field, which can give potential employers confidence that you can do the job well. Second, certifications can help you stand out from other candidates who may not have them. Third, they can open up opportunities to work with larger companies or organizations that require certification as part of their hiring process. Finally, having certifications can also give you access to exclusive networks and resources that would otherwise be unavailable. In short, certifications are essential for photographers looking to get ahead in their careers and increase their chances of success in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Product Photographers and explain how these certifications can help to advance a product photographer's career.

What are Product Photographer Certifications?

Product photographer certification is a formal recognition of a professional's expertise in the field of product photography. It can be obtained through various educational institutions, including vocational schools and universities, or through specialized professional organizations. Certification serves as an endorsement of an individual's skills and knowledge in the field, and can help to increase their credibility when seeking employment or contracting out services.

Having a product photographer certification can be beneficial for those looking to work in this field in several ways. It demonstrates that they have the necessary training and experience to produce quality images that accurately represent products. This certification also shows potential employers or clients that they are knowledgeable about the latest industry standards and trends, which helps them stay competitive. Additionally, it may provide access to exclusive resources, such as networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry or discounts on equipment and supplies. Ultimately, having a product photographer certification can help individuals stand out from the competition and give them an edge when pursuing job opportunities or contracts.

Pro Tip: Look for a product photographer certification program that is accredited by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). This will ensure that you receive high-quality training and resources to help you become a successful product photographer.

Related: What does a Product Photographer do?

Top 11 Product Photographer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Product Photographers today.

1. Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)

Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) is a professional designation for photographers that demonstrates their commitment to the profession and their expertise in the field. It is an internationally recognized credential that requires a significant level of knowledge, experience, and skill.

To become a CPP, photographers must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include being a current PPA member in good standing, having at least two years of full-time professional photography experience or the equivalent part-time experience, and completing an approved college-level course in photography or its equivalent.

Once eligible, photographers must pass an exam administered by PPA to demonstrate their knowledge of photographic techniques, lighting, posing, digital imaging, business practices, and other topics related to professional photography. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost to take the CPP exam is $150 for PPA members and $250 for non-members. There is also a fee of $100 for each retake if needed. Once the exam has been passed successfully, there is an additional one-time fee of $50 to receive the CPP designation.

The entire process typically takes about three months from start to finish but can take longer depending on when the photographer applies for eligibility and when they are able to take the exam.

2. American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) Certified Professional Photographer

The American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) Certified Professional Photographer program is a certification program that recognizes photographers who demonstrate the highest standards of professional practice. The program is designed to help photographers differentiate themselves from their peers and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field of photography.

To become an ASMP Certified Professional Photographer, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least two years of professional experience as a photographer, completing an online application and portfolio review, passing a written exam, and agreeing to abide by the ASMP Code of Ethics. The certification process typically takes about six weeks from start to finish.

Once certified, photographers can use the ASMP Certified Professional Photographer designation on their website and promotional materials to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field of photography. They will also receive access to exclusive resources such as discounts on insurance policies, discounts on educational programs, and networking opportunities with other certified professionals.

The cost for the ASMP Certified Professional Photographer program varies depending on which level of certification you are applying for. For basic certification, it costs $125; for advanced certification, it costs $200; and for master certification, it costs $500.

3. International Photography Certification Council (IPCC) Product Photography Certification

The International Photography Certification Council (IPCC) Product Photography Certification is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of professional product photographers. The certification is based on a comprehensive set of standards for product photography that have been developed by the IPCC.

The certification process involves completing a series of online courses and passing an exam. The courses cover topics such as lighting, composition, digital imaging, post-processing, and more. Upon successful completion of the coursework and passing the exam, photographers are awarded their certification.

The IPCC Product Photography Certification takes approximately two months to complete. To get started, photographers must first register with the IPCC website and pay a fee of $395 USD. This fee covers all course materials, access to the online learning platform, and one attempt at the certification exam.

Once registered with the IPCC website, photographers can begin taking their courses right away. Each course takes between two to four weeks to complete depending on how much time is spent studying each week. Once all courses are completed and passed with an 80% or higher score on each exam, photographers can then take their final certification exam which consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering all aspects of product photography.

Upon successful completion of this exam with a score of 80% or higher, photographers will be awarded their International Photography Certification Council (IPCC) Product Photography Certification.

4. New York Institute of Photography Product Photography Certificate Program

The New York Institute of Photography’s Product Photography Certificate Program is designed to help photographers learn the fundamentals of product photography. This program provides a comprehensive overview of the techniques and tools used in product photography, as well as the business side of running a successful product photography business.

The program consists of eight courses that cover topics such as camera basics, lighting, composition, styling, post-production, and marketing. Each course includes video lectures and assignments to help students gain proficiency in product photography. The entire program takes approximately 8 weeks to complete if done at a self-paced rate.

To get the Product Photography Certificate Program, potential students need to register for the course on NYIP's website. The cost for the program is $499 USD which includes access to all 8 courses and materials needed for completion. Upon successful completion of all 8 courses, students will receive their certificate from NYIP.

5. National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) Certified Product Photographer

The National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) Certified Product Photographer program is a certification program designed to recognize and reward photographers who demonstrate mastery of the skills needed to produce high-quality product photography. The NAPP Certified Product Photographer certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a photographer’s technical proficiency and expertise in product photography.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the program, depending on the individual’s experience level. The program consists of three courses: Introduction to Product Photography, Advanced Techniques for Product Photography, and Professional Practices for Product Photography. Each course includes lectures, hands-on activities, and assignments designed to help photographers develop their skills.

To become a NAPP Certified Product Photographer, applicants must successfully complete all three courses within 12 months of starting the program and pass an online final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of at least 10 images demonstrating their ability to create professional-level product photographs.

The cost for the NAPP Certified Product Photographer certification is $399 USD. This fee covers all three courses as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and tutorials.

6. Professional Photographic Certification Commission (PPCC) Certified Professional Product Photographer

The Professional Photographic Certification Commission (PPCC) Certified Professional Product Photographer is a certification program designed to recognize and reward professional photographers who have demonstrated excellence in product photography. This certification is available to any photographer who has achieved a high level of proficiency in product photography, regardless of their experience or background.

The PPCC Certified Professional Product Photographer certification requires the successful completion of an online exam that covers topics such as digital imaging, lighting, composition, color management, and more. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in product photography or a related field.

In order to obtain the PPCC Certified Professional Product Photographer certification, applicants must first register with the PPCC and pay a registration fee of $50 USD. Once registered, applicants can access the online exam and submit their results for review by the PPCC board. If approved, applicants will receive their official certificate within four weeks after passing the exam.

The cost for obtaining the PPCC Certified Professional Product Photographer certification is $50 USD for registration plus any applicable taxes or fees.

7. National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) Certified Professional Product Photographer

The National Association of Professional Child Photographers (NAPCP) Certified Professional Product Photographer is a certification program for professional photographers who specialize in product photography. It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in product photography, and to ensure that clients receive the highest quality images possible.

To become certified, photographers must complete an online application and submit their portfolio of work for review by a panel of experts. The review process typically takes between two and four weeks. Once approved, photographers can then apply for the NAPCP Certified Professional Product Photographer designation.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the photographer's level of experience and expertise. For those who are just starting out, there is a one-time fee of $50 USD. For experienced professionals, there is an annual fee of $100 USD.

In addition to the fees associated with becoming certified, photographers must also adhere to NAPCP’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. This includes maintaining high standards for customer service, professionalism, integrity, and respect for copyright laws.

Once certified, photographers will be listed on the NAPCP website as Certified Professional Product Photographers and will be eligible for exclusive discounts from NAPCP partners such as Adobe Creative Cloud software subscriptions and discounts on products from major camera manufacturers like Canon and Nikon.

8. International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP) Certified Product Photographer

The International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP) Certified Product Photographer is a certification program designed to recognize professional wedding photographers who specialize in product photography. It is an elite status that demonstrates a commitment to excellence and dedication to the craft of product photography.

To become an ISPWP Certified Product Photographer, applicants must submit a portfolio of their best work for review by the ISPWP Certification Committee. The portfolio should include at least 10 images that demonstrate mastery of product photography techniques, such as lighting, composition, and post-production. The applicant must also provide detailed information about each image including the type of product photographed, the camera used, and any special techniques employed.

The application process can take up to six weeks depending on the number of applications received. Once approved, applicants will receive their official ISPWP Certified Product Photographer certificate and be listed on the ISPWP website as an officially certified photographer.

The cost for becoming an ISPWP Certified Product Photographer is $250 USD. This fee covers the application processing and certification costs associated with becoming an ISPWP Certified Product Photographer.

9. American Photographic Artists (APA) Certified Product Photographer

American Photographic Artists (APA) Certified Product Photographer is a certification program designed to recognize and reward photographers who demonstrate excellence in product photography. This certification is awarded to those who demonstrate mastery of the technical, aesthetic, and business aspects of product photography.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the requirements for APA Certified Product Photographer. The requirements include completing an online course, submitting a portfolio of work, and passing an exam. The cost of the certification varies depending on the level of certification you are seeking.

To get APA Certified Product Photographer, you must first register with APA and pay the registration fee. Once registered, you will be able to access the online course materials and submit your portfolio for review. After your portfolio has been reviewed and approved by APA staff, you will be eligible to take the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your certificate and be officially recognized as an APA Certified Product Photographer.

The cost for the certification varies depending on the level of certification you are seeking but generally ranges from $150-$500 USD.

10. The Art Institutes Digital Photography Certificate Program

The Art Institutes Digital Photography Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to teach students the fundamentals of digital photography. The program covers topics such as camera operation, composition, lighting, and post-production techniques. It also provides instruction in the use of Adobe Photoshop and other digital imaging software.

The program consists of four courses that can be completed in as little as eight weeks. Students will learn how to use their cameras to capture stunning images and manipulate them using Adobe Photoshop and other software tools. They will also gain an understanding of basic photography principles, such as exposure, composition, and lighting.

To get the certificate, students must complete all four courses with a passing grade. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate from The Art Institutes.

The cost for the Digital Photography Certificate Program varies depending on which school you attend; however, it typically ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 for all four courses.

11. The Royal Photographic Society’s Licentiate Distinction in Commercial and Advertising Photography

The Royal Photographic Society’s Licentiate Distinction in Commercial and Advertising Photography (LRPS) is a professional qualification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of commercial and advertising photography. The LRPS is awarded by the Royal Photographic Society, a leading authority on photographic standards and practice.

To achieve the LRPS distinction, individuals must submit a portfolio of commercial or advertising images to demonstrate their ability to create high-quality images for this purpose. The portfolio should include at least 10 images, each accompanied by a brief description of how it meets the criteria set out by the Royal Photographic Society.

The process of achieving the LRPS distinction typically takes around three months from start to finish. During this time, applicants will need to select and prepare their images for submission, as well as complete an application form and pay an assessment fee. Once all these steps have been completed, applicants will receive a response from the Royal Photographic Society within two weeks. Successful applicants are then granted their LRPS distinction certificate.

The cost of applying for the LRPS distinction varies depending on where you live; however, it typically ranges between £50–£150 (GBP).

Do You Really Need a Product Photographer Certificate?

The short answer is no. A product photographer certificate is not required in order to become a successful product photographer. However, there are some benefits to having one if you plan on pursuing a career in this field.

Having a certificate can demonstrate your commitment to the craft, and that you have taken the time and effort to learn the necessary techniques for product photography. It also shows potential clients that you are knowledgeable and experienced in this specialized field. Additionally, it can be used as evidence of skill when applying for jobs or contracts with larger companies.

In addition to these tangible benefits, having a certificate can also provide intangible advantages such as increased confidence in your abilities and an edge over other photographers who do not have one. This can give you an advantage when negotiating rates or entering into contracts with potential clients.

At the end of the day, whether or not you need a product photographer certificate depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you want to pursue a career in product photography, then having a certificate may be beneficial for helping you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your commitment to your craft. On the other hand, if you simply want to take quality photos of products occasionally for fun or personal use, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain one.

Related: Product Photographer Resume Examples

FAQs About Product Photographer Certifications

1. What is a product photographer certification?

Answer: A product photographer certification is a credential that demonstrates a professional level of knowledge and skill in product photography. It typically requires passing an exam or completing a course in order to receive the certification.

2. How do I become certified as a product photographer?

Answer: To become certified as a product photographer, you will need to complete an approved course or pass an exam for the specific type of certification you are seeking. You may also need to have some experience in the field and/or submit portfolio samples for review.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a product photographer?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification, there may be certain prerequisites such as having some experience in the field and submitting portfolio samples for review. You should check with the certifying organization for more information about specific requirements for their program.

4. Is there any benefit to getting certified as a product photographer?

Answer: Yes! Having a professional credential can help you stand out from other photographers, potentially giving you access to better job opportunities and higher pay rates. It also shows potential clients that you have taken the time to hone your skills and are committed to providing quality work.

5. Are there any online courses available that can help me prepare for my certification exams?

Answer: Yes! Many certifying organizations offer online courses or study materials that can help prepare you for their exams, giving you an advantage when it comes time to take them. Be sure to check with the certifying organization directly for more information about what they offer and how it can help you succeed on your exams.