Photography and Media

Our Level 6 Photography course is your opportunity to explore the art of capturing moments and creating stunning visual stories. Over one year, you'll immerse yourself in hands-on experiences with cameras and digital imaging software. Dive deep into composition, exposure, and discover the magic of lighting. This course sets the stage for your photography journey, whether you're aspiring to become a professional photographer or pursuing advanced qualifications.

To start on this exciting path, you need:

• a genuine passion for photography
• a portfolio showcasing a variety of subjects, techniques, and skills that you can discuss during the interview

While having 4 relevant Nat 5 qualifications or completing the Access to Photography course can strengthen your application, they are not mandatory. If you don’t have formal qualifications but have life experience, then we’ll also consider you for a place, so please do apply.

Our experienced and award-winning professional photographers will be your guides on this creative journey. Throughout the course, you may:

• begin with fundamental photography techniques and camera features, including exposure, composition, and framing
• develop your portraiture skills, mastering lighting techniques and creating captivating portraits in the studio and on location
• dive into product photography, honing your skills in lighting and composition techniques
• explore studio photography for both still life and portraits, focusing on lighting styles and camera settings
• uncover the art of reportage photography, learning how to use images to tell compelling stories
• choose your own theme and produce a series of images that reflect your creative vision
• master digital techniques to enhance, optimise, and manipulate images using software like Photoshop

Beyond the classroom, you may also have the opportunity to:

• take on live briefs, providing photography for local retailers or community projects
• embark on exciting local photography excursions to places like Kilwinning Abbey, the Scottish Maritime Museum, or the beach
• visit photography exhibitions and studios to broaden your horizons
• showcase your work in public exhibitions
• collaborate with fellow creative students, including those in hair and beauty, to create portfolio-worthy photography

Once you’ve completed this course, you may choose to:

• progress to HNC Photography
• explore diverse career paths, including Social Photographer, Portrait Photographer, Press Photographer, Fashion Photographer, Corporate Photographer, or Photo Editor

With additional qualifications, you could even embark on a degree programme in photography at renowned institutions such as 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.

Beyond acquiring technical skills, you'll nurture your creative spirit and gain insights from industry experts. Our curriculum equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in photography, while also developing versatile cognitive abilities and Meta-skills. 

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

HNC Photography