UndergraduateArts & Design
Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging
TAFE Queensland, Multi-campus, QLD, Australia
About this program
This course equips you with broad skills in technical photography (film and digital), as well as in the application of elements and principles of design and visual communication theory, to enhance your image production. You will develop skills in studio and natural lighting, print-making, portraiture, media, illustrative and commercial photography, as well as videography for social media. You will build your portfolio within a supportive and collaborative studio environment and explore the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within your photography practice, to gain an understanding as to how AI tools can transform and streamline your workflow and enhance creativity.
Additionally the course prepares you for one of the leading growth areas in photography, social media content creation. You will study business, marketing and commercial photography to prepare you to create visually compelling branding and product images, as well as videos tailored for online platforms.
The Australian Government’s Job Outlook service predicts strong future growth for digital creative roles such as photographers, digital content creators and videographers with approximately 27,000 new jobs expected over the next five years.
Upon completion, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to work independently or collaboratively as a photographer across a wide range of genres within the creative industries. The course offers excellent articulation pathways to higher education programs.
TAFE Queensland graduates thrive through dynamic industry partnerships that elevate both learning and employability.
Cost & duration
English test scores
Verified tafeqld.edu.au ↗
Course structure
17 terms of coursework
- CUAPHI523- Employ colour management in a digital imaging workplace
- CUAPHI531- Apply visual communication theory to photo imaging practice
- CUAPHI532- Research and apply photo imaging trends and emerging technologies
- CUAPHI533- Explore and apply photo lighting techniques
- BSBMKG551- Create multiplatform advertisements for mass media
- CUAACD522- Work with photomedia in creative practice
- CUAACD534- Research and apply light and colour
- CUADIG415- Produce innovative digital images
- CUAIND412- Provide freelance services
- CUAPHI312- Capture photographic images
- CUAPHI521- Make illustrative photo images for publication and display
- CUAPHI535- Produce commercial photo images
- CUAPHI536- Provide photographic portrait services
- CUAPHI537- Produce media photo images
- CUAPPR512- Develop sustainability of own professional practice
- CUAPPR513- Present a body of own creative work
- CUAPRI511- Refine printmaking techniques
Career & PR pathway
Occupations this degree typically leads to, and their skilled-migration list status
Graphic DesignerANZSCO 232411
On STSOL, supporting the 190 and 491, not the 189 on its own.
Assessed by VETASSESS
Industrial DesignerANZSCO 232312
On STSOL, supporting the 190 and 491, not the 189 on its own.
Assessed by VETASSESS
Web DesignerANZSCO 232414
On STSOL, supporting the 190 and 491, not the 189 on its own. Also on CSOL, additionally supporting the employer-sponsored 482 and 186.
Assessed by VETASSESS
List membership changes over time and does not guarantee an invitation. See the skilled occupation lists guide and the points calculator before relying on this for a visa decision.
Admissions
Completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification, or the equivalent international qualification. Skills check Domestic students You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology. The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 4 in English, 4 in Maths and 4 in Digital Technology. If you are applying for a VET Student Loan the required levels to meet academic eligibility, as outlined by Commonwealth guidelines, is Level 4 English and Maths. Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application. Read the Skills Check FAQs. Prerequisite requirements To enter this qualification, students must produce a folio imaging work that demonstrates the application of technical skills and knowledge equivalent to Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 4 or above. Skills and knowledge may have been acquired through experience, or through formal study. Selection criteria To apply for this course you must present a collection of work, which demonstrates an interest in art and design. Enrolment Conditions apply for students under 18 years of age. Portfolio compulsory items: Your folio should include 7-11 pieces of photographic work using the brief's. Include a rationale per image demonstrating your technical skills and knowledge. These could include but are not limited to: Portrait - A traditional headshot portrait with controlled studio lighting. - A candid outdoor portrait capturing natural expressions. - A creative self-portrait that reveals your personality. Landscape - A wide-angle landscape showcasing a natural vista (mountains, beach, forest, etc.). - An urban landscape capturing the essence of a cityscape. Still Life - A well-composed arrangement of everyday objects with controlled lighting. - A macro shot highlighting intricate details of a small subject. Architecture - An interior shot capturing the ambience of a space. - An exterior shot emphasising the lines and form of a building. Experimental/Artist - An abstract or experimental photo that demonstrates your creative approach. - A long-exposure shot that creates unique light trails or motion effects. Note: Submit either JPEG’s or PDF’s. You must submit this electronically at time of application or via the Student Portal and MUST contain a zip file of all folio items. International Students The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students: - English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International. - Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12 Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.
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