Independent Digital Photography

Program Description

You’re best suited for this intensive four– semester program if you have a strong interest in photography and image creation, along with a basic knowledge of photography.

You’ll be required to demonstrate an understanding of imaging fundamentals. Throughout the program, you’ll build a strong portfolio of photographic and illustrated images for a wide range of practical business applications. Along with artistic and technical skills, you’ll learn business and entrepreneurial skills. Your hands–on learning will concentrate on the digital realm of photography and imaging. You will be required to purchase a minimum of photography/imaging equipment.

Earn your diploma in Independent Digital Photography and you could become a professional photographer, equipped with the technical skills and business knowledge you need to succeed in this creative and dynamic field.

Whether you're working behind the camera or are working in a technical support role, you’ll be prepared to compete in this evolving market.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)

Applicant Selection:

• In the event of oversubscription, applicant selection may be a two–step process. In Step 1, academic achievement (i.e. grades in pre– requisite subjects and/or scores in English and Reading Achievement Tests) may be used to select applicants who are eligible for Step 2. The second step will require attendance at an orientation session and the submission of a portfolio of photographic work. Applicants who are unsuccessful in Step 1 will be notified by mail, and will not be included in Step 2 of the selection process.

Desirable:

• Grade 11 or 12 Visual Arts (drawing, painting, illustration).
• Basic computer skills, including Windows or Macintosh operating system, word processing (preferably Microsoft Word), spreadsheet software (Excel).
• College Art Fundamentals Program.

The Importance of Learning Skills:

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well–organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Fees

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Your Career

Professional photographers are entrepreneurs. Most run their own businesses, working as freelancers for a wide range of clients across many sectors. Some are employed in key roles at photography studios, leveraging their technical expertise in photo manipulation, restoration and compositing.

Application Process

The applicant selection is a two–step process:

Step 1: Academic achievement (i.e. grades in pre–requisite subjects and/or scores in English and Reading Comprehension tests) may be used to select applicants who are eligible for Step 2.

Step 2: Attendance at an Orientation Session, submission of a portfolio of photographic work (Parts A and B), and completion of a program–related assignment.

Applicants who are unsuccessful in Step 1 will be notified by mail, and will not be included in Step 2 of the selection process.

Portfolio Requirements:

To be considered for the IDP program we ask that applicants submit a portfolio (Part A) and a letter of intent (Part B).

Part A. Ten (10) best images, including:

• two scenics
• two still life images
• two portraits
• one creative self–portrait
• three other images of your choice

Do not include flowers or pet pictures unless the lighting is extraordinary.

Part B. Letter of intent submitted as a digital Word file where applicants need to demonstrate:

• they have done some research into the various disciplines of photography, and have a goal in mind as to what they want to do after graduating; or
• if applicants don't have a specific goal in mind, they should still have a basic understanding of what photographers do, and the options that are available to them; and
• that they are enthusiastic, motivated, and willing to work hard to learn the craft.

All portfolios must be submitted in digital form. Our selection process does not allow for printed portfolios or non–digital artwork. Images must be submitted as JPEG files, written documents as Word files.

Important note: All files must be submitted on a non–returnable 1 or 2 gig USB flash drive, and placed in a single folder named "Lastname, Firstname, Student number".

Orientation Session Orientation:

sessions are typically held four to seven months prior to the beginning of classes. You will be advised through Admissions as to the exact dates. A tentative guide is provided below:

• February or March for the September/Fall semester
• October or November for the January/ Winter semester

General Education

One of the general education subjects must be a literature subject, for which EAC150 is the pre-requisite.

For more information, please visit our website at http://els.senecac.on.ca.

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