[clay]

This is very true for most professions. Credentials matter a whole lot less than convincing an employer that you can create value for them that exceeds that amount they will pay you.

from the perspective of the magazine world (which is pretty photo dependent), the "RISD" thing means very little, the work experience is what employers are more than likely to center on. Thats just the experience I've had in the 6+ yrs I've been in the magazine world.

One of your best bets is to check with artsquad.
They have locations in Dallas/Fort Worth.

http://www.artsquad.com/contact-us/