• Photography and Media

    HNC Photography

  • SCQF Level

    Level 7

  • Attendance/Duration

    Full-time, one year

  • Start Date

    Aug 2025

Overview

In our HNC Photography programme, we ignite your passion for photography and provide a strong foundation for your exciting journey into this captivating world. In just one year, you'll embark on an immersive exploration of photography techniques, digital imaging, and the art of visual storytelling. Whether you're drawn to the controlled environment of a studio or the dynamic challenges of shooting on location, this course will equip you with the skills needed to create compelling visual narratives and develop a deep understanding of the photography industry.

We're here to nurture your creativity and help you capture moments that tell powerful stories.

Entry Requirements

To apply for this course, you'll need the following:

  • a genuine passion for photography
  • one Higher qualification, preferably in Photography or Art and Design, OR a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 6 or equivalent, such as Photography
  • an interview with us
  • a portfolio showcasing your work.

If you don’t have formal qualifications, but have appropriate experience or training, then we’ll also consider you for a place, so please do apply.

Course Content

During this course, led by experienced and award-winning photography lecturers, you'll have the opportunity to:

  • explore studio still life: focusing on creative lighting and composition
  • develop your portraiture skills: learning creative lighting techniques for both studio and location photography
  • dive into corporate photography: including techniques for working in uncontrolled industrial and commercial environments
  • delve into documentary photography: choosing your own theme to produce a series of impactful images
  • learn the art of social photography: covering events and weddings
  • embark on environment photography excursions: capturing striking images on location
  • hone your specialist image editing skills: including the use of Lightroom and Photoshop

You may also have the chance to:

  • participate in live briefs: such as community projects
  • collaborate with local businesses: for promotional photography
  • visit photography exhibitions and studios
  • showcase your work in public exhibitions
  • gain insights from guest speakers working in professional photography
  • engage in internal and external events: including the Fashion Show and employer dinners
  • collaborate with other creative students: such as those in the hair and beauty industry, to build their portfolios

Careers and Further Study

Upon successfully completing this course, you'll have various options, including:

  • progressing to our HND Photography
  • establishing your own photography business
  • exploring potential career paths such as Social Photographer, Portrait Photographer, Press Photographer, Fashion Photographer, Corporate Photographer, or Photo Editor

With additional qualifications, you may even consider pursuing a degree programme in photography at institutions like Edinburgh College of Art, Edinburgh Napier University, Glasgow School of Art, Gray’s School of Art at Aberdeen, City of Glasgow College, or Edinburgh College.

We encourage you to take the first step towards an exciting photography journey. For more details or to initiate the application process, please get in touch.

Skills

By enrolling in our HNC Photography programme, you'll gain a wide array of skills that will set you on a path to success in the photography industry. From mastering technical aspects like lighting, camera operation, and editing to developing excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to thrive under pressure, this course equips you for a rewarding career. You'll also acquire transferable cognitive skills that are highly versatile.

Employer and Industry Links

You may have the opportunity to work with our Marketing department and/or external partners on live briefs and community projects.

Articulation Route

HND Photography

Places available

Campus

Ayr

Start Date

Aug 2025

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