New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5)
Visual Arts
A course by
SIT
Enhance your photography skills with the New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5). This beginner-friendly course immerses you in the world of photography, equipping you with essential skills for both professional and hobbyist pursuits.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
SIT2LRN Distance Learning, Online
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Digital Camera Operation
Understand and apply the core principles and manual controls of digital cameras, including exposure, aperture, ISO, focus, lighting, framing, and composition.
Industry-standard Post-production
Confidently use industry-standard image editing software (Adobe Creative Cloud suite) to create and manipulate digital images for various purposes.
Photographic Design
Apply fundamental design theory to photographic media, utilizing practical design principles in the creation of images.
What You're Signing Up For
This introductory diploma is designed for aspiring photographers who wish to develop foundational skills in digital photography, photographic design, post-production, and professional practice. Delivered via distance learning, the programme includes both technical and creative elements, prepares students for further study or work in the industry, and culminates in a visual portfolio. Emphasis is placed on camera operations, software skills, aesthetics, and commercial applications.
Course Content
- NZDP100 Introduction to Digital Photography (camera operation, manual controls, lighting, composition)
- NZDP101 Introduction to Digital Post Production (Adobe Creative Cloud, image manipulation)
- NZDP102 Photographic Design (design theory applied to photography)
- NZDP105 Digital Photography (advanced manual control, lens selection, narrative, movement)
- NZDP106 Digital Post Production (advanced image correction, manipulation)
- NZDP107 Professional Practice (business operation, administration, commercial genres, legal/ethical issues)
- NZDP108 Digital Photography Portfolio (developing a creative, unified portfolio)
- Electives: NZDP103 Auteur Studies (photographic history, aesthetics) OR NZDP104 Media and Imagery (media analysis, visual context)
What you need to know first
Keen interest and aptitude in photography
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Photography
Visual Arts
Creative Industries
Future employment opportunities might be
Junior technical or assistant roles in the photographic sector
Self-employed photographer
Support roles in photo studios or related industries