BA (Hons)

Photography FAQ

1) What do you need to see in my portfolio?

A range of recent work showing your personal interest in photography and broader aspects of visual art. This could be 10-15 examples of ideas and developing themes in photography. Additionally you may have video work that relates to your interests. Evidence of personal work is strongly encouraged.

Please bring all your sketch books and research files.

2) What facilities do you have?

We support practices from analogue through to high end digital production. This includes small, medium and large format photography, with C41 negative processing and E6 transparency processing. Students can process and print black and white images within a wet and dry process facility. The department’s digital suite has recently been upgraded to a state-of-the-art production facility with a fully colour-managed work flow. We have a large number of DSLRs, and medium format digital Phase One backs. We have high end Flextight film scanners to cover up to 5′x4′ film. There is a dedicated location store for lending equipment such as portable lighting kits and all camera formats.

3) How often will I see a tutor?

As there is a high emphasis on developing the individual, the course is designed so that you will be in regular contact with your level tutor in one to one and group tutorials, seminars , lectures etc. There are numerous opportunities to see other tutors to discuss your work.

4) Do you organise visits abroad?

Yes, there are opportunities to take educational visits abroad, recent students have undertaken field trips to; New York, Berlin, Moscow, Krakow and this year we are planning to visit Amsterdam and Paris. In recent years we have a regular trip to Paris. Paris Photo is an international annual event that we encourage all photography undergraduates to attend.

5) What work experience is available? Is there help obtaining this?

Generally work experience can be negotiated for short periods. Students are encouraged to identify specific specialist areas that they wish to engage with as a future career. This could result in students identifying a specialist practice or Institution, such as a magazine or a post-production digital company for their work experience. In the past ex-students have worked with artists and in gallery related activities. The course team will support relevant work experience.

6) What are the employment prospects?

The success of the course is focused on a diversity of practices that each individual student identifies through the curriculum and personal development. Recent graduates have developed careers within; art, practice, photography in its widest context to include, assisting, commercial freelance photography, fine art practice, teaching, curating, image manipulation, web design and film production.

7) How much theory is there?

Formally there is 15-20% theory which is used as a basis to create project work although research files and sketchbooks should evidence theoretical enquiry.

8 ) Do I need a Foundation Diploma?

This is not mandatory.