COURSE CURRICULUM

The Documentary & Editorial Photography degree begins with a strong foundation in photographic techniques, history, and professional practice. In the first year, students develop essential skills in studio lighting, editing software, website creation, and presenting. They explore the fundamentals of narrative photography through real-world style briefs, alongside modules in ethics, business, and the cultural history of photography. Emphasis is also placed on understanding how images convey meaning and influence public perception, with critical thinking and analysis built into the curriculum.In the second year, students expand their creative toolkit by incorporating video and multimedia storytelling. Through hands-on experience in audio-visual production and interactive media, they learn to create engaging, narrative-driven content. Legal and ethical issues in photography and journalism are explored, and students gain a deeper understanding of audience engagement and media conventions. The year includes a work placement, offering valuable industry insight and professional experience. Critical engagement with cultural, political, and technical contexts continues to inform students' creative decisions and storytelling approach.In the final year, students focus on independent research and professional development. A dissertation allows exploration of personal interests within the field, while a developmental portfolio helps refine their creative direction. This leads to the creation of a final major portfolio, a professionally presented body of work targeted at specific audiences and industry standards. The course concludes with the Professional Futures module, where students enhance their portfolios, CVs, and professional profiles with guidance from tutors and industry mentors. This well-rounded approach ensures graduates are not only technically skilled and creatively confident but also ready to enter the photography and media industries with a strong sense of purpose, professionalism, and critical awareness.