Program Highlights
In the first term, students study the fundamentals of photography, such as using a digital SLR camera, controlling light, colour theory, design and composition, introductory studio lighting and the basics of black and white darkroom processing.
During the second and third terms, students use their skills in specialty applications including portraiture, advertising photography, editorial and photojournalism, landscape, nature photography, and computer photo enhancement. Students participate in field trips to a range of diverse locations.
Students also complete a two-week work experience practicum, giving them valuable hands-on experience in the field of photography. Student placements may be with portrait, wedding or commercial photographers, newspapers, photo retail stores, processing labs or graphic designers. Placements can be based either on Vancouver Island or elsewhere, if practical.
As part of their final evaluation, students assemble a portfolio of work representative of their photographic talent and technical skill.
Career Opportunities
As a graduate of the Professional Photography certificate, career positions may include, but would not be limited to, photojournalist, fine art photographer, advertising, professional assistant, wedding photographer, and portrait photographer.
Supply List
Supplies Required
Students are required to provide the following list of basic supplies and equipment:
- DSLR camera with HD video and lenses covering wide angle to telephoto
- 1 flash meter (Minolta, Sekonic, Polaris or Calcu-Flash2)
- 1 tripod with ball or 3-way head
- 1 salon or Presentation portfolio case 11x14 or 16x13”
- 500 GB portable hard drive
- CF memory card reader if applicable
- 1 magnifying lupe (8 or 10x with glass lens)
- 10 sleeves for 120mm negatives
- 10 clear 81/2 x 11” pages
- 1 package lens cleaning tissues
- cans “air duster” canned air
- 1 utility knife
- or 3 Sharpie fine tip, black permanent markers
- 1 roll masking tape 3/4”
- 1 pair scissors (6” to 8”)
- 1 penlight flashlight
- box 100 sheets Ilford MG IV RC 8 x 10 Pearl finish b&w paper
- 10 rolls Ilford HP5 120mm film
- Instructors may add additional equipment for specific courses.
- Students must also be prepared to cover the costs of color ink jet printing, field trip expenses, and framing for gallery shows (an extra $2,000 approx. over the supplies listed above).
Supplies Provided
The program has six medium-format camera systems that students will use on a shared basis for free. Students must provide proof of private insurance to cover replacement costs of the equipment or be liable to pay repair and replacement costs.