Course overview
You experiment with techniques for both urban and rural landscapes, take inspiration from influential photographers such as Sian Davey and Chris Killip, and pick up practical tips for capturing striking portraits. You also discover niche areas and specialisms, giving you the chance to develop and refine your own unique style.
You do not need expensive equipment to take part, you can use a standard camera or even your smart phone, provided it is less than five years old. You build a digital portfolio of your work, perfect for showcasing your progress and supporting future studies, including degree applications.
You access Adobe Creative Suite and can work towards recognised Adobe certificates, adding valuable skills to your creative toolkit. Throughout the course you connect with other students and academics through interactive sessions, as well as working independently to put your learning into practice.
Expect to dedicate at least five hours each week across online sessions, independent study and hands-on photography.
Top reasons to study this course at Teesside
- Learn from anywhere: flexible self paced study combined with live sessions means you can balance learning with other commitments.
- Hands on creative development: weekly tasks and peer critiques help you grow technically and creatively.
- Professional standards: develop skills in digital editing, safe equipment handling, and portfolio presentation aligned to industry expectations.
- Inclusive for all devices: whether you own professional equipment or just a smartphone, this course is designed to help you create impactful images.
- Build a strong portfolio: complete the course with a curated, reflective collection of work that demonstrates your journey and achievements.
Course details
What you study
You study and develop technical, creative, and critical photography skills, combining technical instruction, creative exploration, and reflective practice to help build a strong foundation in photography genres.
Topics explored include:
- experimenting with techniques and skills, involved in urban and rural landscape photography
- exploring niche areas and specialisms of photography
- the works of Sian Davey and Chris Killip
- at home tips to capture brilliant portraits
- visual analysis and critical reflection on genre based photographic work.
How you learn
You learn through a blend of:
- lectures and technical demonstrations covering camera operation, composition, and editing techniques
- workshops providing hands on practice with photographic equipment and software
- group critiques and peer discussions encouraging reflective practice and visual analysis
- self directed study to explore ideas, experiment with techniques and develop your personal portfolio.
How you are assessed
You are assessed through two workbooks and submission of a portfolio of images.
The focus is on practical photographic work and critical reflection to develop technical competence and creative confidence.
Formative assessment is built into the learning process and includes:
- weekly tasks and exercises with informal tutor and peer feedback
- group critiques and discussions to evaluate work-in-progress
- one-to-one tutor meetings for personalised guidance.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
We recommend, you have an understanding of camera systems and basic techniques to get the best experience from the course. It is open to anyone with an interest in photography and a willingness to learn, whether using a digital camera, mirrorless system or smartphone.
General entry requirements
- A basic level of digital literacy to engage with online learning materials and Adobe Creative Suite.
- A written submission which focuses on your interest in photography and learning goals.
Additional requirements and reasonable adjustments
- The module includes practical tasks which require the ability to operate cameras and software independently.
- Some activities may involve fieldwork in outdoor settings, which may not be fully accessible in all circumstances. Alternative arrangements will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Part-time learners are welcome; you can follow the flexible study plan to fit with your schedule.
Employability
Career opportunities
This course is designed to not only develop your technical and creative photography skills but also to prepare you for further study and career opportunities in the creative industries.
You build a strong portfolio and a reflective workbook that showcase your technical competency, creative thinking, and ability to critically evaluate your work, essential attributes for progression to undergraduate study and professional practice.