Certificate in Introductory Photography

Visual Arts

A course by

UCOL

Learn the basics of photography as a medium to express creative ideas in this level 5 certificate. Develop introductory skills in camera usage, composition, lighting, digital processing, and presentation of images.

NZ$221

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 5 Certification (20 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Available in 2 locations

It will take a total of 10 weeks

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Manual camera use

Operate DSLR or mirrorless cameras manually, adjusting settings such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and white balance to create visually compelling images.

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Image composition and lighting

Apply design principles and use natural and artificial lighting effectively to compose images.

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Digital image editing

Perform basic image editing and processing using Photoshop software.

What You're Signing Up For

The Certificate in Introductory Photography at UCOL is a Level 5 qualification that teaches foundational photography skills including camera equipment use, manual photography settings, composition principles, lighting techniques, digital image processing with Photoshop, and understanding contemporary photographic practices. Suitable for those wanting practical skills for professional photography, marketing, or social media, it prepares students for further study in photography.

Course Content

  • Composition of images using design elements and principles such as texture, shape, form, space, shadow and colour
  • Understanding camera types, usage and accessories
  • Exposure, ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and focusing techniques
  • Using natural and studio lighting
  • Introduction to Photoshop image processing
  • Influences on contemporary photographic practice
  • Developing visual ideas from initial brief analysis
  • Research and development from concept to resolution

What you need to know first

Open entry

Recommended literacy and numeracy at NCEA Level 1 or equivalent

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Creative Arts

  • Photography

  • Media

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Entry level professional photography roles

  • Marketing and social media content creation