Photography Courses at Edinburgh College - Sighthill Campus
BA (Hons) Professional Photography
Our BA (Hons) Professional Photography one-year top-up degree is unique to Scotland. The degree is taught at Edinburgh College and validated by Kingston University London. It is delivered in only one academic year and is open to applications who are progressing from a two-year HND in Photography. The course is designed to enable you to further develop your skills in contemporary and commissioned photography, preparing you for a future career within the Creative Industries.
You will develop your creative potential as you immerse yourself in the art of professional photography and learn the wealth of skills needed to enter this fast-paced and competitive industry. This course is industry-linked and holds accreditation by the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) and is endorsed by the Association of Photographers.
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You will be taught by highly qualified and experienced lecturers in state-of-the-art Edinburgh College photography studios including a drive-in facility suitable for shooting vehicles, advertising, and fashion. The equipment store contains an extensive range of industry-standard equipment available for loan including top-of-the-range cameras, lenses, and lighting. In-house colour-managed printing is available from our new Focal Point, a purpose-built digital printing and retouching lab. You will receive guest lectures from professionals in the industry, here you will make essential industry connections for your future career.
Our ethos combines creativity and technical excellence to succeed in an ever-changing industry. This course is benchmarked by the achievements of our graduates, many of whom are multi-award winners in national and international photography competitions. Our successful graduates become employed, self-employed or progress on to postgraduate study.
HND Professional Photography
HND Professional Photography at Edinburgh College is a two-year course of study designed to prepare students for a career as a professional photographer. The course has been developed to provide you with a broad-based creative and commercially relevant experience. The department also offers access to a fantastic range of fully equipped studios, digital suits and printing facilities.
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The emphasis throughout the year is on professional attitude, working to deadlines, attention to detail and the desire to satisfy the demands of the client. You will be asked to fulfil varied photographic briefs - developing fresh and original creative image solutions, coupled with developing essential self-motivated study, research skills and reflective practice.
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You'll be taught by practising photographers with a wealth of experience and knowledge across the industry. In addition, guest lecturers from a variety of backgrounds are invited to give you valuable insight into real professional and creative practice.
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In addition, HND Photography is an excellent preparation to develop your skills even further in our BA Professional Photography program.
Photography Foundation
The Foundation Photography course introduces both the technical and creative aspects of photography. Students work from tutor-led briefs and are directed through a creative process. The briefs are pitched at a beginner’s level and include scope to grow both soft and hard skills. Portraiture, Advertising and Photojournalism are just some of the genres covered. Students also plan and produce a bespoke portfolio in respect of their chosen progression. The course culminates in an evening event showcasing each student portfolio. Friends, family, staff and member of the industry are invited to celebrate the student achievements.
This course is often used as a gateway to the Higher Diploma courses.
Beginners Photography
If you are considering studying photography then this course is an ideal starting point. This course is designed to give students an introduction to Photography.
This course is designed as a basic starter course for those wishing to explore and learn more about photography. Students will learn the basic use of a camera and what it takes to make successful photographs.
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This is a hands-on course where students will learn through practical use of a camera and other photographic equipment both in college and on location. Students will also learn basic photo editing and preparing files for printing.
Introduction to Photography - January Start
The Introduction to Photography course develops students’ skills in technical camera functions and operations. There will a brief for students which is based on a mini project where they will work on a visual story, applying the technical knowledge gained through creative image capture and print. Students will learn how to plan, creatively develop and produce a bespoke photo essay in respect of their chosen subject matter.
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The course culminates in an exhibition showcasing each students’ portfolio. This course is often used as a gateway to the full-time level 5 or 6 courses.