There are no prerequisites to complete this course. However, you must be able to read, analyse and comprehend, printed information in English, and to write statements and solve problems to complete the course. You must also have reliable access to a computer and a reliable internet connection and have basic computer skills.

Students will undertake 4 Key Modules, made up of 29 subjects.

Module 1: Photographic Practice (100 hours)

Study the techniques used for photographing people and landscapes, using black and white, sports photography, illustrative photography, and images for publishing.

This module is all about exploring the techniques required for successful photography. You will learn how to compose photographs in a way that matches a predetermined aim. Discover how to take better photographs of people and how this differs to what is required to get capture landscapes and natural subjects. Explore the differences between black and white photography and colour, what subjects work best for each and why you would choose to use one over another. Learn how to create various visual effects through the use of special techniques. You will also gain a better understanding of the nature and scope of business opportunities in the photography industry and what this may mean for you.

Module 2: Photographic Technology (100 hours)

Understand what it takes to capture a good photo and learn how to identify problems by exploring image formation, lighting, lenses, filters, colour and sensitometry.

In this module, you won’t just learn how to capture a good photograph, but you’ll discover how to describe in technical terms, how an image forms when a photograph is taken. Delve deeper into the nature of light and how this relates to the finished photographic product, and how sensitivity of a photo-sensitive surface and its development can affect the photographic image. You will explore how the composition and manipulation of white and coloured light creates different photographic images, and the chemical process that occurs in producing a colour film photograph. Gain a better understanding of how the photographic image may be manipulated by using optical filters or other camera attachments, other than lenses, and also how different lenses can manipulate a photograph image too.

Module 3: Photoshop – Beginner To Medium Level (100 hours)

As the most-commonly used software in photography and graphics, you will learn how to create and manipulate photographs, images and artwork using Adobe Photoshop for use on the web, email and print.

This introduction module to Adobe Photoshop is designed to set students up with the basics of the software program, from opening digital files, resizing images and understanding multiple file formats, to more creative fundamentals. Learn how to create original graphics, manipulate individual elements or images and add interesting effects, change compositions of a photograph and set up your files for the web, print or email so you can share your work with potential clients.

Module 4: Starting A Small Business (100 hours)

This unique and hands-on course will help develop your knowledge and skills required to start your own small business. From developing your business ideas and then refining and improving them through the support of your experienced mentors, to formulating a business plan that focuses on clear outcomes and profitability.

Beginning with a broad overview of the nature of small business and what it takes to run one successfully, the module then explores the legal requirements, restrictions and costs associated with starting a small business. You will learn about the marketing process, sales and promotions so you can set yourself up for success. The module also delves deeper into the administrative side of small business, such as record-keeping and bookkeeping and the importance of a comprehensive and clear budget.

Assessments are an important part of your study journey as they help ensure you stay on track and meet the learning objectives of each lesson before moving onto the next. They also help your student support advisor and mentors identify where any further support may be required, so that you get the most out of your course. You will learn via various methods; a combination of reading, undertaking research and watching videos. Assessments might include case studies, quizzes, and written assessments.

12 months to access the course content (extensions are considered on a case-by-case basis)

The Learning Group is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association which recognises quality and excellence in education providers in tertiary education.