Do I need a degree in photography to get into the business.?

I have a taken a couple of photo classes and understand basic things (focus, depth of field, white balance, iso, etc.) I have not shot on film since I just got into this when I was 22 (I'm 24 now) I am majoring in journalism, but don't really want to go into the field. However, I would like to work as a photographer. I know I have the passion and the raw talent, but it seems like some of the art school kids are much better than I am. It is possible to teach myself about photography and still find work someday?

I should also add that I would like to use photoshop as little as possible. I do have somewhat of a journalist mentality and feel images can be altered to a point of no longer being photography.

you need money,it will do you everything.

no i dont think you do. you need really awesome pics for a portfolio. good luck

Why not. It couldn't hurt. A degree will help you with a lot of things.

Brooks Institute is a fine one. Three of my friends went there. They are making a living in photography.

You could do it but the formal education will help you more in the long run

I have a sister-in-law that just got into the photography business without a degree. She has the passion for it as well as you do. She looked up professionals in her area that were willing to take her on with them to teach her what they knew, in exchange for her services at weddings, sports events, etc... etc... You may want to try this. She now has her own studio in her home, including helping a local photographer when needed.
Good Luck!!!!

If you feel others have an advantage over you get the training and the confidence.

It is possible to teach yourself anything. But once you have how will you measure yourself against others?

I suggest that you have already voiced your concern and therefore you need to follow what you know is right. Get training in photography so that you can confidently offer yourself as a photographer.

The fastest?

Go to school and learn photography ... inside and out.

Work for about five years as an assistant to a pro or work as a staffer somewhere, although to learn the business of photography being an assistant is a more direct route.