OverviewAbout this course
Enter the exciting world of professional photography as you learn technical skills and creative know-how. Develop your abilities to work with creative briefs and grow your portfolio of high-quality images.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Use and maintain your camera equipment
Process photo images to their final stages using industry-standard programs
Integrate colour theory and design
Work with clients and models
Understand the laws and regulations of the photography industry
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited qualification at Certificate IV level
Specialist skills to perform portfolio-based photography which can include location shoots, portraiture, landscape, commercial and collection management photography
Confidence in working with clients by responding to a creative brief
A strong pathway to continue your study and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
- There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
An interest in using digital and analogue technologies
Some knowledge of digital photography technology, including cameras and camera accessories
Experience working with computers, including using browsers, and opening, saving and being able to retrieve files
The ability to travel to off-site locations
Access to a digital SLR or mirrorless camera that offers a manual exposure mode and can trigger studio flash lighting equipment, at least one zoom lens, and related basic photographic and data storage equipment
Confidence in communicating with clients or models
Good organisational and self-presentation skills
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: photographer (freelance), photographer’s assistant (studio), compositor, digital retoucher and minilab retail assistant.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study0 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Further study1 Course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study4 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 15 units of competency, including 7 core and 8 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Apply work health and safety practicesCUAWHS312
Store and maintain finished creative workCUAPPR403
Enhance, manipulate and output photo imagesCUAPHI403
Apply photo imaging lighting techniquesCUAPHI412
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community
Info sessionsWant to know more?
There are a total of 9 information sessions planned for this course. They'll take place at different locations across the state.
You can select a study option below to see the sessions available. Or you can view all sessions related to