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Digital Photography - Schools, Degrees, Courses

The world of photography has changed a great deal since the advent of digital technology. However, the principles behind the art remain the same as they ever have. Using still images to both capture and communicate information is a fascinating subject – and whether we know it or not, this captivating art form affects each and every one of us on an almost daily basis. If you’ve an eye for detail, the knack for seeing further than what is just in front of your eyes and the desire to create art in one of the most technological advanced and compelling ways known to man, then a degree in digital photography could be right up your alley.
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What’s it all about?
Photography is far more than just capturing an image. Not only is it a visual method of communication, but it offers a unique perspective to generate a message to all who view it. The art of lighting, focusing and controlling exactly what is portrayed in the final image has a powerful effect on all who view it. Understanding and portraying exactly what it is that you want your photographs to communicate is a great deal of what learning the art is about. And once your photos are captured, and then there are the issues of context, placement and marketing to think about. Of course, another large part of a digital photography degree is the understanding of the best use of the digital technology available. From the camera units themselves right through to digital photo editing, a degree will give you the best possible grounding to enable you to transform what just might currently be a hobby into a satisfying and lucrative career.

What will I learn?
Learning will address the fundamental principles of creating photographic images. Using a combination of both theoretical and practical learning, you can expect your digital photographic degree to cover the following:
  • The basic principles of capturing a still image. This will include the use of lighting and other skills to gain confidence in what can be achieved in the practice of photography.
  • The scope and nature of the photographic image – including the use of color versus black and white to get your message across to your audience.
  • Digital imaging, photographic editing and various techniques used to create the finished product.
  • Professional practice in the industry.
  • Interpretation of themes, subject investigation and personal observation – along with the ability to communicate messages via the medium of photography.
  • Critical understanding of both the theoretical and conceptual aspects in the field of photography.
  • Accepted professional standards in the industry, along with ethical awareness and technological advances afforded by both current and future photographical developments.

How will I learn?
A degree in digital photography is by necessity both theoretically and practically based. Lectures and seminars will introduce you to the key practices and knowledge from which you can then build on. Practical projects and assignments will lead you towards self-directed learning, encouraging you to expand your skills in the art of photography and your own creative ability. You will be assessed mainly on project work, along with your ability to present your work in the most advantageous manner to your intended audience.

After gaining my degree, what options are open to me for employment?
Digital photography is an exciting field and one that offers many different avenues of employment. Besides the obvious one of displaying and selling your wares, you could consider a career as an art director, picture researcher, studio manager, digital artist or even move into related careers in branding, PR and project management. The knowledge and ability to communicate powerful messages via the medium of images is something that is used in a great many industries, not just the obvious ones.

Because technology is expanding at such a rate, the field of digital photography also continues to grow. More and more tools and features come onto the market at an almost daily rate, and the photographic and media industry has to adapt with it. This means that choosing photography for a career will never be a static choice – they’ll always be something new to learn, no matter how experienced you become.

Digital photography is a wonderful way to convert your passion for the photograph into a lifelong career. Here at Colleges and Universities we know the importance of choosing the right degree course, which is why we’ve carefully compiled a list of only the very best institutions across the nation where you can learn your craft. Because digital photography can offer the freedom of perhaps working for yourself, along with the prospects of what could be an extremely lucrative career, the best possible start you can get is to gain a degree in the subject. Everything you need to start your degree search is here, so take a browse through our lists and take your first step on the journey to the career of your dreams.« Collapse