Extended Diploma Photography Arts University Plymouth

specialist digital imaging suites, top of the range DSLR equipment, professionally-equipped studios – including our brand new pre-degree photography studio in Palace Court – and top-class digital printing equipment. Students will also benefit from regular guest lectures from photographers like Tom Oldham and Justin Quinnell. Your first year will introduce you to the core methods and concepts of photography, with challenging and creative assignments exploring a range of industries that photographers operate in, such as fashion, journalism and advertising. You’ll also learn about the contexts that affect photographic practice and bene t from practical workshops in studio and location photography, experimental techniques and digital media. Students will create their own unique, artistic response to themes like culture, diversity, identity and the environment, and learn about commercial applications for their work. The first term gives you a broad and exciting introduction to the world of the creative industries. You will experience a series of fast- paced, industry-relevant projects, in which you work with other specialist areas and, as a result, create unique and exciting work within your own subject area. The second year has a professional focus, with an emphasis on preparation for degree-level study or working professionally in the creative industries. The year ends with writing an assignment as part of your major project. You’ll also have the opportunity to go on cultural trips and engage with briefs set in consultation with industry throughout the South West and beyond. Recent trips and collaborations have included:

• Coastal documentary shoots in collaboration with the National Trust and National Marine Aquarium.
• A fashion shoot at Mount Edgcumbe House.
• A fantasy photoshoot at Dingles Vintage Fairground Heritage Centre.
• An underwater photography shoot.
• A promotional photography client brief for Mount Edgcumbe House.
• Client briefs for Regen SW and Devon Wildlife Trust.
• Interior architectural shoots at the Palace Theatre.
• Portrait shoots for educational charity Project Zulu. You will gain specialist skills in studio lightingfor portraiture, fashion, still life and product photography. You’ll study traditional lm and darkroom techniques alongside learning how
to use Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Camera Raw and other specialist software, greatly enhancing your photography skills. In addition to these technical skills, you will develop your expertise in communication and professional presentation, teamwork and creative problem-solving. WHAT QUALIFICATIONS WILL I GET? When you successfully complete this two-year course, you’ll gain a Level 3 Extended Diploma – equivalent to three full A-levels, or a maximum of 168 UCAS points. WHERE WILL THIS TAKE ME? Many of our students go on to a variety of degree-level programmes here at Plymouth College of Art, including BA (Hons) Photography, BA (Hons) Commercial Photography for Fashion, Advertising & Editorial, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Practice, and BA (Hons) Fashion Media & Marketing. Students have progressed on to a diverse range of Higher Education study, from advertising to psychology. Alternatively, you might take the transferable skills that this course gives you and look for employment. As well as the ongoing advice, guidance and support you’ll receive from your course team, the college has a specialist careers service that will help you make the right decisions for your future. WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY:
“Moving from A-levels to college was the best decision I could have made – I have learnt so much more and enjoyed college far more than I did sixth form. I’ve made a lot of good friends and have gained so many skills by taking part in this course.”
Student Survey

“The college atmosphere is very mature and relaxed but well organised. The range of equipment is outstanding and the support time from tutors is excellent.”


For more please contact the Course Leaders:

Tobie Loates: [email protected] - www.tobieloatesphotography.com

Chris Smith: [email protected] - www.chrissmithphotographic.com