This course has been devised in response to industry and student-led demand for practical training in makeup and hairdressing techniques for theatre, film, TV, fashion, festival, carnival and entertainment arenas.
Level 4+
BA (Hons) Photography with Lens Based Practices
COURSE OVERVIEW
Institution Code: C57
UCAS Course code: W642
BA (Hons) Photography with Lens-Based Practices
Unleash your creativity with our Photography with Lens-Based Practices degree. This hands-on course is designed to help you thrive in the photography industry, with a focus on developing your unique style and creative voice. You will work on a range of projects that challenge you to explore different approaches to image-making, from traditional and experimental photography to moving image, digital media, and interdisciplinary practices.
Throughout the course, you will develop both technical expertise and critical thinking, supported by workshops, studio sessions, and collaborative activities that mirror professional practice. You will also build a professional online presence to showcase your work and prepare for a career in photography or other creative industries.
You will have access to a wide range of professional equipment, including full-frame mirrorless and DSLR cameras with specialist lenses, analogue cameras from 35mm to large-format, remote sound recording gear, and support from experienced technical staff.
Key features of the course include:
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A close-knit creative community with opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.
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Live briefs and client-based projects that offer real-world professional experience.
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Opportunities to develop entrepreneurial skills, including self-promotion, networking, and business planning.
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Accreditation by the University of the Arts London (UAL), ensuring high-quality teaching and industry recognition.
Our state-of-the-art facilities include:
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Large Infinity Curve studio with professional flash
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Black Studio with fixed RGB LED lighting and flexible backdrops
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Traditional darkrooms with enlargers and a dedicated developing suite
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Mac suite fully equipped with Adobe Creative Cloud
Modules Overview
Year One (Level 4):
- Fundamentals of Photography and Lens-Based Techniques (20 Credits)
- Investigating Lens-Based Practices (20 Credits)
- Digital Editorial (20 Credits)
- Cultural and Contextual Studies (20 Credits)
- Independent Project 1 (40 Credits)
Year Two (Level 5):
- Image-Based Narrative (40 Credits)
- Professional Practice (20 Credits)
- Advanced Cultural and Contextual Studies (20 Credits)
- Independent Project 2 (40 Credits)
Year Three (Level 6):
- Specialist Practice (20 Credits)
- Collaborative Project (20 Credits)
- Creative and Critical Research Project (20 Credits)
- Professional Identity (20 Credits)
- Personal Showcase (40 Credits)
Collaboration is central to this course, with opportunities to work with students across music, theatre, and other creative disciplines. You will engage with live briefs, professional commissions, and external collaborations, ensuring you graduate with a strong portfolio, practical experience, and the skills needed to succeed in the creative industries.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Ready to stand out and secure your place on our course? Here’s how we evaluate your application:
We look at each application individually, considering your grades, interview performance, portfolio or audition, and any relevant experience. While we typically expect the following qualifications:
- A relevant A-Level qualification, or
- A Level 3 Extended Diploma
We understand that not everyone follows the same path. If you dont meet the standard entry requirements, don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to show us what you are capable of! Show us your potential through:
- Relevant academic or work experience
- A strong, compelling personal statement
- An exceptional portfolio and interview
What do I bring to the interview?
For this course, you’ll need to bring a small portfolio of your best work, along with a sample of written work that reflects your interest and ability in this field. This is your chance to shine and show us what makes you unique.
What happens after I complete my course?
Graduates from this course go on to pursue exciting and diverse careers, including:
- Photographer’s Assistant
- Freelance Photographer
- Portrait Photographer
- Specialist Photographer in fields such as fashion, travel, architecture and even forensics!
- Picture Desk Assistant
- Photo Editor
- Press Photographer
- And so many more…
Our students gain hands-on experience and develop industry connections, working commercially for photographers, magazines and on commission-based projects. Many have gone on to establish successful freelance careers, with some even forming creative partnerships during the course.
Whether you dream of capturing breathtaking images, curating exhibitions, or working behind the scenes in photo editing and design, this course opens the doors to a wide range of possibilities.
Join a community of passionate photographers and creatives, and see where this journey can take you.
Our teaching and assessment methods are designed to keep learning dynamic, engaging and hands-on. You will experience a mix of:
- Practical workshops to refine your skills
- Group discussions to exchange ideas and insights
- Critiques to help improve your work
- Lectures and seminars to explore concepts and techniques
- One-on-one tutorials for tailored feedback
- Group study and peer reviews to collaborate and learn from others
- Independent study to deepen your knowledge and creativity
Assessment methods are tailored to each unit and may include:
- Creating photographic and lens-based portfolios
- Completing project work
- Delivering presentations
- Keeping journals of you creative journey
- Developing a research proposal
- Writing assignments to showcase your understanding
With this variety, you will have plenty of opportunities to grow and demonstrate your skills in ways that suit your strengths.
What are the costs of doing our photography degree?
Tuition Fees:
The tuition fees for this course is £9,535 per year.
Finance Options:
There are several options available to help manage your tuition fees:
- Student Loan
- Instalment Payment Plan
- Company Sponsorship
For more information, please visit our Finance and Funding page – Funding your Course | Northbrook College
Additional Costs for Creative Degree Courses:
When planning your studies, it is important consider potential costs beyond tuition fees. While tuition fees cover teaching, assessment and access to college facilities, such as studios, shared IT resources and workshops, some courses may require additional expenses.
These could include:
- Textbooks: Essential texts are available in the college libraries, but you may wish to purchase personal copies for convenience.
- Computer Equipment: While on-campus computers are available, having a personal laptop or tablet may offer greater flexibility for off-site study.
- Printing and Photocopying: Most coursework is submitted online, but some assignments may required printed submissions, optional binding, or other presentation materials.
- Materials: Creative course often require specific art materials or equipment. A detailed materials list will be provided upon enrolment.
- Field Trips: Certain courses may include optional study visits or field trips to enrich learning experiences.
- External Shows and Exhibition: Opportunities to participate in external exhibitions or shows may involve additional preparation, materials, or travel expenses.
We are committed to providing transparent information about any additional costs to help you plan effectively for your studies. For more information regarding the financial support that we can offer, please visit our Financial Support page – Financial Support | Northbrook College
Validated by the University of Arts London (UAL)
This course is validated by University of Arts London (UAL). UAL is a leading education provider in the creative arts, ranked second in the world for art and design (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023). They oversee the standards and quality of our curriculum, which enriches your overall learning experience.
BOOK AN OPEN DAY
If you want to find out more about what Northbrook College has to offer why not join us at our next open day.
Visit our one of our specialist campuses to see our industry-standard facilities and meet our expert tutors.