BA (Hons) Commercial Photography*

BA Commercial Photography 2011 - Hannah Garrod
Hannah Garrod - Year 3

 

COURSE OVERVIEW

Whether it’s socially concerned documentary or dramatic contemporary fashion imagery, commercial photography has the ability to communicate it’s message. On this course we aim to produce the next generation of visually expressive, fashion, documentary, editorial, portrait and advertising photographers.

 

We’re looking for people who want to push creative boundaries, challenge industry perceptions and set the agenda for future generations of commercial photographers. You’ll gain a broad understanding of photographic practice and theory as we guide you towards a career in photography and the creative industries. You’ll enter the industry confidently, invested in the creative and critical visual language needed to effectively collaborate within your field of practice.

*subject to validation

 

RESOURCES

· Some of the world’s top photographers started their careers here and we attract a wide range of excellent speakers from the industry including photographers, art directors, picture editors, agents, stylists, and photographic assistants.

· Our experienced team have active practices in: editorial portrait photography, documentary photography, advertising and fashion photography, digital expertise, specialist critical theory and HD video.

· We offer the specialist environment and equipment to experience working at a professional level:

  • Extensive studios
  • Black and white and colour darkrooms and film processing
  • A dedicated digital suite and a location and studio equipment store
  • A dedicated team of technicians who provide technical assistance and advice to support your studies

 

YEAR 1

Year 1 of the course give you the creative and practical skills to build on during the course.

· You’ll be introduced to photographic techniques and processes through units that emphasise good technique including; digital imaging, lighting for studio and location, darkroom practice (colour and black & white), HD video and a wide range of traditional and digital formats.

· You’ll be introduced to photographic themes and concepts by looking at photography as the key visual medium in the 20th and 21st century.

· Your studies will be supported by guest lectures from visiting photographers and other industry professionals.

· You will have the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals during a period work placement (FdA).

 

YEAR 2

Year 2 will build upon your skills and knowledge and provide opportunities for you to develop your photographic practice within specific areas.

· You’ll be encouraged to reflect on your professional interests and to take responsibility for your learning.

· You’ll develop your creative, research and conceptual skills and combine them with professional awareness and understanding.

· You’ll work on live projects and professional collaboration that help you consider your career options.

· You will have the opportunity to prepare yourself for further study (BA (Hons) year 3) or employment in the creative industries (FdA).

 

YEAR 3

Year 3 allows you to refine your photographic practice, develop and reflect on your experience gained during previous study.

· We’ll help you develop into creatively mature, commercially focused and autonomous photographers.

· You’ll carry out extensive research to advance your practice and to develop your practical, theoretical and intellectual abilities.

· You’ll be able to show a sophisticated understanding of commercial photographic practice and be given opportunities to promote yourself as a photographer.

· You’ll graduate with the qualities and skills necessary not only for employment but also for postgraduate study.

 

This course is currently offered as a Foundation Degree with BA Top-Up option. We propose to offer the course as a BA (Hons) Degree from 2012 (subject to validation).

 

BA Commercial Photography 2011 - Leanne Lim Walker
Leanne Lim Walker - Year 3

 

INTERVIEWS AND PORTFOLIOS

Interviews are an opportunity for you to demonstrate your commitment and self-motivation and to discuss aspects of your chosen course. You will be expected to display an advanced level of photographic skills and an appreciation of contemporary commercial photographic practice and its professional context. Portfolios should exhibit work that evidences good photographic skills, creativity, self-motivation and contextual awareness.

 

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

We look for students who have clear focus and ambition, who have already demonstrated an interest in photography and wish to channel that commitment into a course that will give them the opportunity to realise their potential as commercial photographers. As well as a well-developed portfolio, you will need to be able to demonstrate evidence of research (for example through sketchbooks, essays or progress diaries).

 

STUDY TIME

Study is divided across taught hours, studio and/or work environment time, and independent study. Excellent professional and technical support is available and students are encouraged to experiment and work collaboratively on self-initiated projects. We expect students to spend an average of 40 hours per week on their studies, although it is likely that these hours will vary throughout the academic year.

 

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS COURSE
More student work, together with a look at our studios, recent projects, exhibitions, industry links and details of our course staff, can all be viewed in the ‘Showcase’ for this course.

 

COURSE LEADER

Conrad Tracy

CONTACT

Admissions

Tel: 01202 363228/363225

Email: admissions@aucb.ac.uk

 

BA Commercial Photography 2011 - Ben Quinton
Ben Quinton - Year 3