Duration:
2 years full-time | Top-up available

Location:
Confetti Nottingham Campus, NTU

UCAS course code:
W645

Institution code:
N91

Quick! We have some places remaining for this September. Check out the entry requirements below.

Our foundation degree in Digital Photography is all about getting you ready for an exciting career in the world of photography. We’ll equip you with the those all-important skills, knowledge and contacts through our industry links.

Learn from our expert staff, collaborate on real-world projects with industry partners, and dive into the exploration of various photography styles and editing techniques.

Master technical tools to effectively express your unique artistic vision, thereby becoming a dynamic influence in the world of photography.

Employability is an integral element of the course. You’ll be trained on the latest industry-standard software and hardware combined and will have many opportunities throughout the programme to undertake work-based learning.

This course is for you if:

  • you enjoy taking photos and working on a portfolio of imagery
  • you are confident with using mobile cameras, DSLRs and photo editing software
  • you are excited by the power of still image

Progression route

Top-up your degree to a full BA (Hons) qualification in Photography at NTU

Clearing 2024

  • 48 UCAS Tariff points from up to three qualifications; and
  • GCSE – English and Maths Grade C/4

2025 entry

  • 64 UCAS Tariff points; and
  • GCSE – English and Maths Grade C/4

To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.

Other qualifications and experience

We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.

Meeting our entry requirements

Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to four different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.

How to apply

This degree is validated by Nottingham Trent University. You can apply through UCAS.

Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.

Photography Practice (40 Credit Points)

This module will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in photography by introducing you to core concepts and principles. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, you will gain proficiency in handling photographic equipment.

Furthermore, the module will focus on developing technical skills required for capturing and processing digital photographs.

Image and Representation (20 Credit Points)

Providing a thorough examination of the historical development, essential theories, and ethical aspects underpinning photography, this module delves into sustainability, cultural diversity, and the central significance of the camera in the creative process.

Through a combination of theoretical exploration and critical analysis, you will cultivate an understanding of photography as both a creative tool and a medium of communication.

Visual Storytelling (40 Credit Points)

Visual storytelling is a powerful form of communication that transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. In this module, through a blend of theory and hands-on practice, you will learn to harness the visual medium to convey compelling narratives, emotions, and ideas.

You will explore the fundamental principles of storytelling and gain insights into how visuals can be used to engage, inform, and captivate your audience. The module will also dive into various storytelling techniques across different creative fields and you will have the opportunity to apply these techniques in your chosen discipline, ensuring that you can weave impactful narratives that resonate with your audience.

Image Manipulation and Post-Production (20 Credit Points)

Explore the processes involved in image manipulation and post-production. Develop the skills and techniques required to creatively enhance and refine photographic work.

You will apply the skills learned to create individual work showcasing your ability across different types of digital photography.

Advanced Digital Techniques (40 Credit Points)

Explore advanced digital photography techniques, delving into a diverse array of creative and technical elements encompassing both production and post-production.

This journey will lead to the enhancement of your practical skills while simultaneously enabling you to nurture your unique creative style, sharpen your focus, and establish a distinctive photographer’s identity.

Experimental Techniques and Creative Practice (20 Credit Points)

This module is a creative voyage into the realm of emerging technologies, methods, and processes, all of which are harnessed to craft innovative image experiences, unlock new possibilities and challenge perceived norms and conventions. You will engage with cutting-edge tools and concepts, fostering a forward-thinking approach to your craft.

Final Major Project (40 Credit Points)

This module acts as a creative stage for you to conceive, design, and carry out an all-encompassing photographic project that encapsulates your individual vision and standpoint. It represents a culminating experience that showcases not only technical proficiency but also the capability to critically engage with photographic principles, the aptitude for inventive storytelling, and a dedication to the craft of visual communication.

Professional Practice (20 Credit Points)

In this module, you’ll acquire the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the ever-evolving creative industries. Delve into the dynamic landscape of this sector, gaining insights into the various roles and responsibilities specific to your discipline.

Explore the wide array of employment routes and opportunities within your area of expertise, and examine the nuances of freelance work. You will work on a live brief to help develop those crucial networking skills, equipping you for success in this vibrant field.

Additionally you will explore the impact of digitally networked cultures, creative portfolios, brand-building, sustainable digital business models and the impact of new technologies.

Do It For Real

Industry Week

Studying at Confetti you’ll take part in Industry Week where you’ll be able to meet a range of professionals within your field of interest as well as other areas of the creative industries. 

Past guests include Cyriak, Aardman Animation and Kev Foakes.

Student work

Our Talent Development team works closely with course leaders to link students with opportunities across the industry. Digital Photography students have previously worked with and visited leading companies, such as:

  • STENCIL
  • Annecy Festival
  • Aardman
  • The National Science and Media Museum

On this course you’ll study in Confetti HQ – our £9.1million digital media hub. You’ll have access to:

  • Industry Spec Workstation PCs
  • Bookable Green Screen studio space
  • Motion capture studio
  • Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Autodesk suite

Courses

After finishing your foundation degree, you may decide to go straight into industry or top-up to a full honours degree.

If you achieve a Commendation or higher grade, you’ll be able to progress onto the Level 6 (Final Year) of the popular BA (Hons) Photography at NTU course.

For those completing their foundation degree with a Pass, you’ll have the opportunity to progress onto Level 5 (Year Two) of the course.

If you choose to progress onto the full honours degree at NTU, you’ll be invited to a transition tutorial with the Illustration course team at NTU. The aim of the tutorial is for you to meet the course team; present your work; and for the team to ensure any appropriate support (if necessary) is made available to you before you progress.

What roles do our graduates go on to?

  • Photographer
  • Picture editor
  • Artist
  • Retoucher
  • Filmmaker
  • Curator
  • Teacher
  • Marketer
  • Community Arts Worker
  • Content Creator
  • Archivist

NTU Employability support

Our support doesn’t end when you graduate. As a Confetti and NTU student you will be entitled to dedicated graduate employability support for up to three years after you complete your studies. You’ll have access to exclusive events, initiatives and work experience opportunities to support you in the early stages of your graduate career.

Open Days

Saturday 12 October - Nottingham
Book your place
Saturday 19 October - London
Book your place