Hands-on, industry-relevant skills
n the Photographic Technology program, you'll have access to NAIT's extensive studios, darkroom facilities and computer imaging labs, as well as the broad range of camera and lighting equipment required to complete your photographic assignments – and prepare for your career.
Over your 2 years of study, you'll learn how to:
- handle a wide range of camera systems
- apply optimal lighting in various settings
- produce images for specific professional photographic needs
- process images through digital means
- develop applied computer skills
- explore the creativity of electronic imaging
Year one
The first year of the program will provide you with many of the foundational skills required for a successful photographic career, including:
- development of the visual and design aspects of photography
- working with cameras of various formats (digital - DSLR and medium format)
- controlling exposure and lighting requirements in a range of situations
- processing, printing and presenting images through digital production procedures
- extensive development of digital imaging skills using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Bridge, Capture One, etc.
- producing photographic images for photojournalistic requirements
- illustrating nature of a business or organization through the production of a photographic essay
Year two
During the second year, you'll refine your photographic skills with courses in:
- advanced digital imaging
- portraiture, commercial and industrial photography
- fine art photography
- illustrating a theme through a photographic thesis
- servicing the real-world photographic needs of a non-profit organization through a "major client project"
Enter the workforce with confidence
Employment opportunities exist in varied areas of photography, some of which are well-known and commonly associated with professional photography. Others are less visible to the public.
After graduation, you may be employed as a portrait or wedding photographer. Or, you could find yourself serving the photographic needs of business and industry. This may include photography for the purposes of advertising, architectural, corporate communications, fashion or industrial projects.
Photographic technologists are employed in hospitals, police departments, colleges, and government and scientific laboratories. Other opportunities exist in photomarketing and in media fields such as newspapers, magazines, multimedia and information technologies.
What you need to succeed
Successful professional photographers tend to be people with well-defined career goals, a drive to succeed and a passion for photography.
Most photographers are self-employed, which will require an entrepreneurial attitude and the ability to manage your time and finances. You'll also need to communicate with clients, self-promote and build relationships.
Photography is often required in the outdoors and in inclimate conditions. You may be required to travel, work independently and invest in advanced technology. Coming into the program, we recommend a budget of $2500 in order to procure professional-grade equipment. 1`
Courses and Advanced Credit
Current and recently admitted students can find information and updates about their program on their My Program page in the MyNAIT Portal. To monitor your course progress and the courses still needed to graduate, visit your Academic Progress Report.
Advanced Credit
You may apply for advanced credit once you have been accepted into the program. Advanced credit can be Transfer Credit (for completed post-secondary courses) or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).
Transfer Credit
In addition to the common guidelines outlined on the Transfer and Credit Options section, your program has other advanced credit requirements that are applied to each request including:
- You must have completed the course or program no more than 2 year(s) ago unless a formalized articulation agreement is in place
- You must have a minimum mark of C+ in the course(s) or program
Read more about advanced credit or contact us about applying for credit for this program.
Scholarships & Awards
NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!
Learn how to apply for awards
International Applicants
This program accepts international students.
PGWP Eligibility
This program does not meet eligibility criteria for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) field of study requirement. Students who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, are not affected by the new field of study rule and may be eligible for a PGWP.
While graduates are currently ineligible to apply for a PGWP, NAIT still welcomes international students to this program to gain valuable knowledge and skills to pursue your career goals, whether in Canada under another type of permit or in your home country or other international markets.
Learn more about PGWP and explore eligible NAIT programs.
