If you’ve been researching photography courses, chances are Vogue’s programs were among the first to appear in your search results—and that’s no coincidence. Since its founding in 1920, Vogue magazine has played a pivotal role in elevating photography as an art form, particularly through its influence on the rise of fashion photography in the 1950s and 1960s. Iconic figures such as Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, Cecil Beaton, and Horst P. Horst helped shape the magazine’s visual language and forever changed the course of the genre. Today, that legacy continues with industry leaders like Annie Leibovitz, Steven Meisel, Tyler Mitchell, and Tim Walker, many of whom have developed their careers under Vogue’s creative umbrella.
But beyond international prestige, what makes the Vogue Diploma in Fashion Photography or the Vogue Online Course in Fashion Photography—offered by Vogue College of Fashion—so highly regarded? Why choose one of these courses over others? Davit Ruiz, a professional photographer and instructor in both programs, helps us answer these questions. Ruiz has worked with publications like GQ and Architectural Digest, as well as brands such as H&M, Bershka, and Lexus. His lens has captured public figures ranging from indie band Carolina Durante and content creator Lola Lolita to actors Luis Tosar and Martiño Rivas, among many others. Here, he breaks down the keys to success.
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Why take a photography course? Why choose Vogue?
“I believe studying photography formally is essential. I don’t fully believe in being self-taught—after all, we all learn from others, whether directly or indirectly. In that learning process, we often skip steps or miss important details. Beyond technique, formal training teaches you what it means to be a photographer—what daily life looks like as a professional, and what goes on behind the camera, which is often just as important,” Ruiz explains.
What should you look for in a photography course?
Reputation and top-tier faculty
In addition to Vogue’s well-known prestige, Ruiz highlights the importance of the instructors. At Vogue College of Fashion, all photography courses are taught by active professionals—not only photographers, but also editors, stylists, designers, and executives from luxury fashion and beauty brands. These experts not only teach but also share real-world insights and connections to help students prepare for the industry. “Photography is a craft, and it’s incredibly valuable to learn from those working in the field every day, in real-world settings,” says Ruiz.
Format and flexibility
“In the end, choosing a course comes down to a combination of factors, but this one is crucial,” Ruiz emphasizes. Every student has different needs, so it’s vital to find a course format that fits your lifestyle. The Diploma is taught in person at the Vogue campus, while the online course can be taken from anywhere in the world. The advantage of the in-person option is daily interaction with instructors and peers, plus hands-on practice. The online course, on the other hand, offers complete flexibility with expert guidance throughout.
A balance between theory and practice
A strong balance between theory and hands-on experience is one of the most critical elements in any photography course. Understanding technical concepts, market trends, and industry dynamics is essential—but applying that knowledge in real shoots or editorial sessions is what truly brings it to life. This practical experience fuels student creativity and initiative. “It’s just as important to study as it is to shoot your own projects—editorials, portraits, still life. One feeds the other, helping you ask better questions and find better solutions,” Ruiz concludes.
When do the Vogue photography courses start?
The next edition of the diploma begins on October 16. The online course starts on September 17. Enrollment for both is now open, but spots are limited. Visit our website to learn more or send your questions to infoadmisiones@voguecollege.com.
