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Photography

Professional Diploma

Launch and grow a photography business - master advanced shooting, lighting, retouching and client workflow, plus pricing, proposals and marketing across 15 hands-on assignments.

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Why this course?

Build a sustainable photography business from the ground up. This advanced, practice-based programme develops the creative, technical and commercial skills to plan, shoot and deliver client work - while setting up the operations that keep a business thriving.

Across fifteen practical assignments, you’ll refine camera craft and production techniques: advanced exposure and metering, lens choice, colour management and tethering; natural light, off-camera flash and continuous lighting; direction and storytelling across key markets (portrait, event, wedding, product, fashion, architecture, editorial, e-commerce). You’ll establish a reliable end-to-end workflow - pre-production, call sheets and scheduling; on-set etiquette and team coordination; file management and backup; culling, retouching and output for web and print - so every job runs smoothly.

You'll also master the business essentials: positioning and niche, portfolio curation, pricing models and licensing, proposals and contracts, usage rights and releases, insurance and risk management, marketing (website, SEO basics, social media, outreach), sales conversations, invoicing and cashflow. Templates and checklists help you create reusable systems for consistent delivery.

Learning is supported by expert-created materials - video tutorials, written guides and project briefs - and regular tutor support with detailed feedback on every submission. By the end, you'll have a polished portfolio, a practical marketing plan, and the confidence and tools to launch and grow your photography practice.

Work placement - Graduates of this course are eligible for a one month work placement with a photography company. All placements are made in the greater London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh areas.

COURSE DETAILS

About this course

Course Level

N/A

Course Duration

This course typically takes Approximately 9-18 months to complete.

Course Assessment

This course is assessed via 15 practical assignments.

UPCOMING

Professional Diploma courses

Date START DATE:
ANYTIME
HOME STUDY

SCHEDULE

Online Self-Directed Study

£1,425 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date START DATE:
FEBRUARY 14TH
clock 09:30 - 16:30
LIVE ONLINE

SCHEDULE

12 full days, Saturdays

View schedule

LOCATION

Virtual Classes

£2,725 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date START DATE:
FEBRUARY 18TH
clock 18:30 - 21:00
LIVE ONLINE

SCHEDULE

24 evenings, Wednesdays

View schedule

LOCATION

Virtual Classes

£2,725 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date START DATE:
FEBRUARY 14TH
clock 09:30 - 16:30
CLASSROOM BASED

SCHEDULE

12 full days, Saturdays

View schedule

LOCATIONS

£2,865 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date START DATE:
FEBRUARY 18TH
clock 18:30 - 21:00
CLASSROOM BASED

SCHEDULE

24 evenings, Wednesdays

View schedule

LOCATIONS

£2,865 Payment plans available
Enrol now
info

Entry requirements: To enrol on this course, you must be over 18 years of age.

BAC

BAC

Accreditation

The National Academy of Creative Arts is an accredited provider of the British Accreditation Council (BAC), a leading authority in quality assurance for independent education in the UK. Recognised globally by students, agents and government bodies, the BAC mark represents the highest standards in teaching, student welfare and institutional management.

STUDY MODES

Explore Our Flexible Learning Paths

Select from home-study, live-online, or classroom-based courses to fit your schedule and learning style.

Home Study courses at the National Academy of Creative Arts allow you to learn at your own pace.
As a Home Study student you will receive access to our Online Learning Centre with in-depth course materials including instructional videos, written content, and carefully crafted assignments. You will also have a dedicated tutor to support you on your learning journey.

Home Study

Classroom-based courses at the National Academy of Creative Arts are the best option for those who prefer studying with others in a physical classroom environment.
As a Classroom-based student you will join other aspiring Interior Designers in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff or Bristol for exciting part-time evening or Saturday classes taught by an industry professional. You will also have access to our Online Learning Centre.

Classroom Based

Live Online courses at the National Academy of Creative Arts provide all the flexibility of online learning with the collaborative benefits of the classroom.
As a Live Online student you will join a small group of students for online classes taught by an industry professional. You will also have access to our Online Learning Centre with course materials including instructional videos, written content, and carefully crafted assignments.

Live Online

MAP

Class Locations

The National Academy of Creative Arts runs in-person classes in the following locations. Live-online and home-study courses are also available and can be completed from the comfort of your own home.

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Hallam Conference Centre
44 Hallam Street
London
W1W 6JJ

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Peel Building
The University of Salford
The Crescent
Salford
Manchester
M5 4WT

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Edinburgh Training and Conference Venue
16 St Mary's St.
Edinburgh
EH1 1SU

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The Studio
7 Cannon Street
Birmingham
B2 5EP

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Stranmillis University College
Stranmillis Road
Belfast
Co. Antrim
Northern Ireland
BT9 5DY

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Central Cardiff
Location to be confirmed

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University of the West of England (UWE) - E Block
Frenchay Campus,
Bristol,
BS16 1QY

View Upcoming classes

OUTCOMES

What will you learn?

Understand camera settings and basic composition

Learn how to control camera settings and frame simple, well-composed shots with confidence.

Learn to use natural light and simple lighting tools

Experiment with natural light and basic lighting techniques to improve photos taken in various conditions.

Develop essential editing skills for better images

Gain basic editing skills to enhance images for personal enjoyment and creative self-expression.

Grow confidence capturing shots that reflect your view

Build confidence capturing images that express your creative perspective and personal style.

PROGRAM

Course Overview

Unlock the full potential of your camera by mastering manual settings. Dive into the art of composition, focus, and lighting to transform everyday scenes into captivating still life photographs. This experience will empower you to capture stunning images with confidence and creativity.

Key learnings:

  • Mastering Composition Techniques
  • Understanding Aperture, Focal Length, and Perspective
  • Harnessing Light Metering and Achieving Perfect White Balance
  • Fine-Tuning with Exposure Compensation

Unlock the secrets of mastering light in photography and elevate your craft with expert guidance on lighting techniques and essential equipment. Dive into detailed planning for a flawless photoshoot, ensuring every shot captures the magic you envision. With this module, you will hone your skills to:

Key learnings:

  • Experiment with Lighting Styles and Settings
  • Create Effective Lighting Diagrams
  • Conduct Studio and On-Location Photoshoots
  • Craft Stunning Studio Portraits
  • Design Captivating Environmental Portraits

Elevate your creative skills by designing captivating album cover portraits while mastering the entire design cycle. This course guides you from your initial concept to stunning, completed photographs, ensuring you meet client expectations at every stage.

Key learnings:

  • Interpreting Client Briefs
  • Idea Development and Testing
  • Photoshoot Planning
  • Advanced Post-Production and Editing Techniques
  • Client Feedback Evaluation

Unlock the secrets of how society, history, technology, economics, and culture shape the world of photography. Dive deep into key historical movements and elevate your photographic expertise. This module empowers you with essential skills to expertly conduct research, analyze significant historical trends, and understand contemporary influences, all while honing your ability to professionally present your findings.

Key learnings:

  • Influence of Society and Culture on Photography
  • Historical Movements in Photography
  • Research Methodologies for Photography
  • Analyzing Historical Trends
  • Professional Presentation of Research Insights

Unlock the secrets behind the art of studio photography and elevate your skills to create stunning, professional images that captivate clients. Dive into the rich history of studio photography, master essential studio techniques, and confidently produce a diverse portfolio that meets client expectations.

Key learnings:

  • Mastering Studio Lighting and Equipment
  • Strategic Planning for Studio Photoshoots
  • Exploring Advanced Studio Photography Techniques
  • Expert Post-Production for Polished Results
  • Effective Presentation for Print and Online Platforms

Unlock the ability to capture stunning photographs in any environment, no matter the challenges. Master the art of adapting your photoshoots to ever-changing spaces, dynamic subjects, and diverse contexts. Experience hands-on learning with an on-location photoshoot to refine your skills and elevate your expertise. Transform your photography projects with:

Key learnings:

  • Client Brief Analysis for Context and Logistics
  • Location Examination and Pre-Photoshoot Tests
  • Innovative Approaches to Dynamic Photoshoots
  • Strategic Planning for On-Location Projects
  • Permission and Equipment Management

Unlock the potential of your photography skills by creating a stunning exhibition collection based on a captivating theme. This experience empowers you to master the art of independent project creation, pushing the boundaries with innovative concepts. You'll learn to communicate your vision through visual language, sharpen your critical thinking, and manage projects like a pro. Showcase your journey and final masterpieces with confidence.

Key learnings:

  • Independent Project Creation
  • Innovative Concept Experimentation
  • Expressive Visual Language
  • Critical Thinking and Project Analysis
  • Professional Project Management
  • Showcase and Presentation Skills

Unlock your potential in the professional photography world by setting clear career objectives and exploring diverse pathways. Craft a standout portfolio that showcases your unique skills and photographic style to captivate clients and impress potential employers. Jumpstart your journey with us, where you'll learn to:

Key learnings:

  • Explore the Photography Industry
  • Assess Your Skills and Identify Strengths
  • Set and Achieve Your Career Goals
  • Strategize Career Growth Milestones
  • Create a Compelling Professional Portfolio
Academic Catalog

TUTORS

Meet Our Photography Educators

All our tutors are creative professionals working in the industry.

See all tutors
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