what's a better career? NICU Nurse or a Photographer

Hello Kiara,

These two paths are extremely different. The answer will be, "it depends". Start by asking yourself how you narrowed it down to these two careers paths. Then I would suggest you do some research into the education path of both and determine what would best suit the amount of money, time, and effort you want to invest. The "better" portion of your question can only be determined by the qualities you find important.

All the Best,

Olivia

These are two radically different occupations, so 'which is better', only you can answer. A nicu nurse of course would need to go to college, pass boards and licensure, and of course have hands on practical training. The environment is highly structured and regulated as you may expect since an RN is taking care of infants.

A career does not typically require as much formal education, though some photographers do have 4 year liberal arts degrees. It is not a regulated field for the most part and is certainly suited for creatives that enjoy freedom . Earning potential is not as guaranteed as what it may be with a RN degree.

Why not do both? There is nothing to prevent you from becoming both a RN and a photographer.

Well Olivia, I've never been a nurse, but I have been a photographer for 50 years. I do know both occupations require passion. Which creates passion in you? If you're leaning towards being an RN, you've got at least four years of college. If you lean towards photography, I do recommend a college degree but you do not have to study photography for four years to work as a photographer. If you choose nursing, you're pretty much guaranteed a job upon graduation. I can't say that with certainty if you pursue photography.

When I speak with young people, who are interested in pursuing a career in the arts, I suggest they get a college education that can support them as they follow their passion in the arts. I suggest that because getting established as an artist, photographer, generally takes several years before your revenue stream can support you. Good luck!

I've been quite successful as a travel photographer for 40 years and the business has changed radically with the advent of digital. All it takes to be a photographer now is a smart phone and it seems nearly everyone has one.

My daughter is a nurse anesthetist and son is a pharmacist. Both make excellent incomes. On the other hand, my income from photography has declined significantly. So I would highly recommend a medical career and if you want to do photography, enjoy doing it with your smart phone.