Bachelor of Arts (Visual Communication) majoring in Photography

Photography works within the dimensions of time and place. Whether we are looking at images of an horrific war scene, an alluring sunset, or a romantic perfume shot, photography has the undeniable power of communicating the meaning of a particular moment. Great photography is made up of essential elements such as statement, mood, feeling and visual happening and is one of the most powerful forms of visual communication.

Although photography has seen huge changes with the advent of digital photography and is continually evolving with innovations in style and technique; it is not purely about technology. Photography is used to advertise, to persuade, and to inform. It challenges the viewer and demands an emotional response.

To become a professional photographer, you’ll need to know more than how to take a photo. The studio photographer starts off with an empty canvas and fills it with light, props, people, etc. The location photographer will use the viewfinder as the frame to bring graphic order to something that already exists. You’ll learn current non-destructive image editing and printmaking. You’ll be encouraged to think, work and see as a professional with projects which not only teach technical skills but, more importantly, focus on creative photography.

This course allows you to develop the creative vision and individual style that differentiates great photography from average photography. You’ll be given a solid foundation in both the creative chemistry of film photography and in the new possibilities offered by digital technology. You’ll get a thorough grounding in theory and practice as well as valuable exposure to the industry through professional photographers and printmakers who make up the lecturing team.

Most importantly, you’ll end up with a portfolio of work which reflects your individuality and showcases your talent to prospective clients or employers.

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Careers

Advertising photography

Advertising photographers generally have a considerable creative input into their work, interpreting the ideas and rough visuals along with the Art Director of the advertising agency. However this job also demands detailed planning and coordination of a specialist team who may be needed for a successful shoot, including set makers and model makers, location scouts, stylists and models. An advertising photographer can either work generally or specialise in a specific area such as product, food or fashion photography, etc.

Commercial photography

Commercial photographers supply photographic services to companies, including PR work, product photography, catalogues, architectural photography and real-estate photography. Some specialise in one or more of these areas, for example photographing interiors of buildings, photographing cars, still life, etc.

Editorial photography

Editorial photographers provide the pictures for magazines and newspapers other than those in the adverts. The work ranges from travel, documentary, sports, paparazzi- style photography and illustrations for feature articles to news photography, to still life, portraits, fashion, food, etc.

General photography

General photographers are those based in a local community with a shop or 'studio' on the street or perhaps working from their home. Most of their work will be for members of the general public, photographing weddings and taking portraits. Some will also do a considerable amount of photography for companies in the local area, including PR photography, product and architectural photography.

Specialist areas of photography include:

Other photography-related careers include:

Photographic Lab Technician

Digital Image Specialist

Photographic Printer

These careers are the backbone of the industry. Without the aid of such specialists and technicians, most photographers would not be able to operate successfully.

The rewards

Depending on which area of the photography industry you aim to work in, wages can vary greatly. In Australia, a photographer can earn anything between $500- $3000 a day. Your salary will greatly depend upon your talent as well as your determination and passion for your job. Then there’s the reward in capturing an amazing image…

Course Outline

The Bachelor of Arts (Visual Communication) Degree (majoring in Photography) is 3 years full time.

Semester 1
Photography Essentials
Digital Darkroom 1
Computing for Design
Ideas and Thought

Semester 2
Photographic Studio 1
Exploring Photography
Drawing, Design Principles and Colour Theory
Visual Communication

Semester 3
Photographic Practice
Digital Darkroom 2
History of Visual Communication
Elective

Semester 4
Photographic Studio 2
Photographic Location
Design Meaning and Culture
Elective
Associate Degree Exit point

Semester 5
Professional Photographic Practice
Major Project (Part 1)
Business Communication
Elective

Semester 6
Industry Experience
Major Project (Part 2)

Course Outline & Subject Descriptions (PDF)

For information about fees, intake dates, entry requirements and application procedure, go to the Apply section.

See the Before you start section for:

• information about budgeting for your course
• forms
• and other important information

All students also need to be aware of the student handbook to keep informed about policies and procedures.