I don't know what might be available in your area, but here in Dallas we have the Southwest Professional Photographers Associtaion that hosts conventions, publishes a magazine, conducts seminars and puts together competitions.


Every year, the PPA hosts a "Texas School" that runs about $500 and includes about 30 different potential courses.


I would highly recommend researching these type of opportunities. The cost is far lower thanthe tuition you mentioned and I think you canhone your skills quickly in these environments.


For sport shooters, the Peter Reed Miller (of SI fame) Sports Photography Workshop in the Denver area offers the chance to learn from one of the best sportsphotographersever. I think the cost is about 1/3 of what you mentioned...