Note: As a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, UCOL Te Pūkenga is committed to providing the best learning outcome for you. As part of this, all programmes are currently being reviewed to make them portable, consistent, and closely aligned with the needs of the industry. When published, this course information is correct, but the courses offered may change over time. If you have any questions call an Enrolment Advisor on 0800 468 265.

From 2023, UCOL Te Pūkenga and the programme you have enrolled in will become part of Te Pūkenga. So, if you join UCOL Te Pūkenga in 2023, you will be awarded Te Pūkenga certification. And, if you are a current learner graduating in 2023, you will be awarded a co-branded certificate.

This programme consists of 120 credits. The course includes;

The UCOL Te Pūkenga Te Pūkenga New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 is a one-year diploma followed by the New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 6.

Semester 1

Photographic Practice 1A - Solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, lighting, use of equipment, image processing and presentation.

Digital production 1A - Introduction to skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology. (Photoshop, Bridge and Indesign)

Semester 2
Photographic Practice 1B - Develop knowledge and skills in solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, and lighting using digital imaging technology.

Digital production 1B - Skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology.

Both semesters
Photographic Communication 1C - History of photography - technological, social and political approaches. Explore cultural and artistic ideas, identify photographic practitioners and differentiate their stylistic approaches.

Photographic Industry & Business 1C - Understanding of the professional photographic environment. Develop a broad understanding of the skill and knowledge required to operate a photographic business. Intellectual property law and the copyright act in relation to photography in a New Zealand context.

Previous Related Programmes
The New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 supersedes and takes the best from the following programme of study, which is no longer offered:

Diploma in Photographic Imaging

Graduates of this qualification will be able to:

Apply problem-solving skills to a range of design challenges within a photographic context
Apply conceptual, creative and technical skills in photographic imaging
Apply knowledge of image making and use of technologies relevant to a range of photographic applications and genres
Create a range of photographic imaging works
Analyse and evaluate own photographic work and the work of others
Self-manage photographic project briefs within defined guidelines
Behave professionally in a photographic work environment.
Employment options include working in junior technical or assistant roles within a photography environment.

To find out more about possible job prospects and salaries for Photographers, see careers.govt.nz

Education pathway
You could choose to undertake further study in the sector, including:

New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 6