Advanced Certificate in Photography

Purpose

The qualification was designed to ensure that graduates will be equipped with

• Knowledge of the theory of photography, significant software usage relevant to industry standards, as well as the ability to create a Photographic business identity and use mastered.
• Expertise to combine graphic and visual elements via software and technical abilities with a view to appropriately interpret and implement Photographic briefs.
• Cognitive competencies to effectively function within the Photography industry - as individuals but also as members and leaders of teams.
• The ability to effectively communicate creative and innovative ideas related to the world of Photography and the type of Photographic briefs that a Professional Photographer may be exposed to (both verbally and by way of appropriate media and technology).
• A sound ethical and professional foundation to successfully enter and function in the field of photography.

Rationale

This qualification has been developed to enhance the learners' expertise in photography applications and for the learners to be able to integrate and apply advanced software application of graphics and visuals so that the learners will have a competitive edge in the Photographic industry.

This qualification will prepare learners for a career in the commercial photography industry as there is a need for professional Photographers within the rapidly developing Visual Communication, Advertising and Media industries.

This qualification will deliver graduates who are professional Photographers and entrepreneurs, educated and appropriately trained in the field of Photography.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL is used when no formal training or learning has taken place and in cases where Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) cannot be performed. As stated, RPL may be carried out at any level of learning and provides an alternative access route into a qualification of learning for those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission.

The candidate seeking access through RPL will provide a Portfolio of Evidence outlining experience and competencies gained. RPL is also used to determine the level of study in a qualification to which the RPL applicant will be admitted.

As part of good RPL practice no more that 10% of a cohort of learners in the Qualification can be admitted through an RPL process.

RPL assessment constitutes two parts, namely the Cognitive Assessment and Supporting Documentation that provides an insight into required competencies needed in terms of knowledge and expertise gained in practices in the field of work. Academic staff involved in the qualification will be responsible for the assessment of the RPL portfolio. The assessment will be fair and transparent and the general policy on appeals procedures applies to RPL candidates not satisfied with the assessment results or process.

RPL may be used to grant exemption for modules in the qualification as well as for granting admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for this qualification is

• Higher Certificate in Photography, Level 5.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 6, totalling 130 Credits

• Advanced Theory of Photography, 15 Credits.
• Advanced Applied Photography, 60 Credits.
• Advanced Visual Literacy, 15 Credits.
• Advanced Digital Media, 15 Credits.
• Advanced Graphic Design, 10 Credits.
• Advanced Professional Photography, 15 Credits.

1. Apply key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories in the Photographic field of unfamiliar but relevant contexts.
2. Select and evaluate the technical aspects, digital post production and practical applications to solve fundamental problems in the photographic environment with a view to enhance technical application and presentation of work performed.
3. Demonstrate software proficiency to develop sophisticated and professional creative solutions through visual communications.
4. Understand and apply business practices common to the Photography industry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand and apply industry-relevant software, concepts, facts, principles, rules and procedures of the Photographic field.
• Integrate the theories and techniques of photography to apply in visual communication design, advertising, multimedia, and imaging in graphic design (printed matter).
• Select appropriate procedures, equipment and techniques to make and refine Photographic and digital works.
• Investigate the world as a source of ideas, concepts and subject matter for Photographic and digital works.
• Show an awareness of the practical use, and characteristics of the prescribed software.
• Make informed choices to develop and extend concepts and different meanings in their Photographic and digital works.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Investigate the visual text, digital Photography and photography practice related problems by identifying, evaluating and solving communication problems in familiar and new contexts.
• Identify and analyse design problems through the process of gathering evidence within a defined context and applying creative, functional design solutions based on evidence and procedures appropriate to the industry.
• Distinguish and solve Photographic-related problems in unfamiliar contexts.
• Apply the solutions during the conceptualisation of projects in the Photographic environment.
• Apply solutions based on relevant evidence and procedures or other forms of explanation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Apply creative and functional design solutions based on evidence and procedures appropriate to the industry.
• Exhibit different forms of knowledge of the design principles and techniques essential for effective visual communication.
• Access, process and manage different sources of information and successfully apply it by using Graphic Design related hardware and software at industry level.
• Substantiate recommended settings and equipment in accordance with the specified and appropriate professional application and practices within the Photography industry.
• Create works of photography that contains meanings/messages in a creative and innovative way as a visual communication design.
• Identify and analyse design problems through the process of gathering evidence within a defined context and apply creative, functional design solutions based on evidence and procedures appropriate to the industry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Develop professional objectives based upon careful consideration of the financial, legal, organisational, promotional, interpersonal and ethical practices particular to Photography.
• Identify the government requirements for business licensing and registration and describe the procedures to that need to be followed to obtain a business licence.
• Explain tax obligations and maintain appropriate records.
• Develop realistic and comprehensive estimates and budgets.
• Identify the value of the creative product as a business asset and rights of the artist regarding reproduction licensing and usage.
• Identify the importance of ethical business practices relevant to the Photography industry.
• Explain the principles and practices of maintaining professional relationships with clients, suppliers, support personnel, and competitors.

Integrated Assessment

According the assessment policy of Potchefstroom Academy all assessments must be fair, valid and reliable. An Integrated Assessment approach is incorporated through continuous formative and summative assessment processes.

Theory assessment

A variety of assessment strategies and/or approaches must be used such as, but not limited to

• Tests.
• Assignments.
• Workbooks.
• Projects.
• Demonstrations.

Practical assessment

May take the form of

• Written.
• Practical.
• Oral assessment.
• Case studies and work integrated learning.