Photography (Digital and Traditional)

Learn about both digital and traditional photography and gain that all-important work experience to become a professional photographer. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the industry and possible careers within photography, as well as getting plenty of opportunity to pitch for live jobs and undertake live projects. You’ll benefit from expert lecturer support and build a wide portfolio of work to progress into higher education or work in the industry.

What you’ll learn  

From setting the perfect lighting to composing scenes that really speak to an audience, you’ll learn the ins and outs of traditional and digital photography whilst working on live briefs and developing your style.

You’ll work in our fully equipped studios or take your camera out on location to capture creative photographs.

Topics can include:

• Using and controlling light for creative effect
• Developing industry standard skills to specialise in your preferred genre
• Using industry standard equipment (camera, lighting, computers and software)
• The photographic industry and the skills you’ll need
• Research and photographic practice
• Creating a portfolio and relevant promotional materials
• Legal and ethical considerations, such as health and safety

You’ll gain hands-on experience through live practical assignments and industry related projects, building an impressive portfolio that showcases your unique style. You’ll explore the realms of photography, mastering composition, lighting, and post-production techniques. With expert guidance from photographers bringing their wealth of industry knowledge to the classrooms (and studios!) to support your development.

Highlights 

You can look forward to:

• Working with clients such as Gloucester City Council
• Local minibus trips and day trips such as the Cotswold Wildlife Park, London, photographic exhibitions, etc.
• Guest speakers - previous examples range from music photography to police forensic photography, alumni currently studying at university
• Two large fully equipped photographic studios and a dedicated Apple Mac suite
• Fully equipped darkroom for analogue photography
• Industry experienced tutors working across a broad range of photographic genres

Assessment 

This course is project-based. Assessment takes place at the end of each project/unit and places you in a range of situations that allow your abilities to be assessed from pass to distinction level through grading criteria that are laid down by your awarding body (Pearson/Edexcel). You’ll be assessed through assignment briefs, producing creative photographic products to showcase your new practical skills. 

Anything else?  

There is an events fee charged at the outset of the course. This covers the end of year show, two mandatory trips and the cost of visiting guest lecturers and workshops. You’ll normally spend 4 days a week in college, and benefit from a weekly pastoral session with a student mentor for any additional support.

At Gloucestershire College we want students to develop their English and Maths skills so that they achieve their learning goals and future career aims. For this reason, all full-time students (16-18) who have not achieved grade 4 or above English language or maths GCSE will study these subjects as part of their course.

You’ll also develop additional employability and work-based skills through our Which Three Skills programme.