Details:
(1 YEAR FULL-TIME)
This accredited Higher Certificate in Photography is aimed at individuals seeking a vocational career in photography. The course is designed to balance practical, theoretical and creative components.
Advances in digital technologies with regard to photography, web design, graphic design and associated disciplines have spearheaded the convergence of these previously disassociated fields. This has created the need to establish an entry-level programme for prospective photographers.
The Higher Certificate will provide students with the required competencies necessary to become professional photographic assistants, photographic retail representatives, social and events photographers, newspaper and magazine photographers, or photographic lab assistants and managers.
By doing this in a higher education context and not as a technical training programme, students will be provided with the necessary theory, critical thinking and reflective skills to differentiate themselves from those who are simply technically trained to take photographs.
Entry Criteria:
- A National Senior Certificate with H or HC - admission to a Higher Certificate
OR
- A Senior Certificate
- All candidates are required to submit a portfolio, complete the Vega entrance challenge and to be interviewed.
Breakdown:
INTRODUCTION TO PHOTOGRAPHY
The purpose of this module is to provide students with a basic introduction to the history of photography, lighting, cameras and other basic elements of photography.
CHARACTERISTICS OF LIGHT
The purpose of this module is to provide students with the theoretical knowledge of the qualities and characteristics of light, in order to be able to manipulate and control light in various situations.
INTRODUCTION TO VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the importance of visual communications and visual literacy in order to make sense of visual culture, especially on a local level.
PHOTOGRAPHIC ASSIGNMENTS
This module investigates and explores the various disciplines of the photographic industry such as landscape photography, wedding photography, fine art photography etc. Photographic Assignments focuses on the technical elements, such as lighting and equipment, for each field. Students are required to complete specific assignments, but are also encouraged to explore and develop their own unique style.
DIGITAL IMAGING
This module provides students with a core understanding of the digital imaging tools utilised in the photographic industry, specifically the primary software used in the industry, Adobe Photoshop. The subject introduces students to the basic theory and application of Photoshop, and aims to integrate digital knowledge and photographic skills into one seamless process.
WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING
This module will assist students to orientate and prepare themselves in the photographic industry. It provides students with an opportunity to interact with clients in respect to quoting on, interpreting, photographing and submitting a defined brief. This, together with the development of a portfolio, enhances the work readiness of students. The purpose of the experiential component is to increase knowledge, develop skills, and clarify the role of the photographer in the workplace.
BUSINESS PRACTICE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
This module will provide knowledge and understanding of entrepreneurship, and enable the student to perform a feasibility analysis that is required to start a business. This module will also provide the student with the skills needed to write a business plan.
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