BA (Hons) Photography

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Photography program at Leeds Trinity University is a comprehensive undergraduate degree specifically designed to equip students with the creative, technical, and professional skills necessary to thrive in the diverse and evolving field of photography. This three-year full-time program provides a thorough exploration of photographic history, theory, and contemporary practices across a range of genres, including documentary, fashion, portraiture, and fine art. The curriculum strategically blends rigorous theoretical learning with extensive practical application, ensuring graduates develop a strong visual language, technical proficiency in both digital and analogue processes, and a critical understanding of the cultural and commercial contexts of photography. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through studio work, location shooting, darkroom practice, digital editing, and integral professional work placements.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Photography program is carefully structured to provide a strong foundation in visual communication and photographic techniques while progressively fostering individual creative expression and professional development. The initial years typically cover fundamental principles of photography, including composition, lighting, exposure, and lens selection, alongside an introduction to photographic history and theory. Students gain hands-on experience in both digital and analogue photography, learning to use various camera formats, studio equipment, and darkroom processes. They also develop essential digital editing and post-production skills using industry-standard software. As students advance, the curriculum delves into more specialized areas, allowing them to explore different photographic genres, develop their personal style, and engage with contemporary photographic debates. The program culminates in the development of a significant final portfolio and exhibition, showcasing their creative and technical achievements. Integral work placements provide valuable real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Photography program at Leeds Trinity University encourages students to engage with research by fostering critical thinking, visual analysis, and an understanding of the historical and theoretical contexts that shape photographic practice. While primarily a practice-based undergraduate program, it is informed by the active scholarship and creative practice of the photography faculty, who may be engaged in diverse areas of photographic research and artistic production. Students are encouraged to explore and critically analyze the work of influential photographers, investigate different photographic genres and movements, and understand the social, cultural, and ethical implications of photographic representation. The program often includes opportunities for students to undertake independent research projects related to their specific photographic interests, developing their ability to articulate and contextualize their creative work within broader academic and cultural frameworks.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a crucial element of the BA (Hons) Photography program at Leeds Trinity University, enhancing its relevance and graduate employability within the competitive creative industries. The program often involves strong connections with professional photographers, galleries, studios, agencies, and other relevant organizations, providing students with valuable opportunities for applied learning and professional development. Students may benefit from guest lectures delivered by practicing photographers and industry professionals, offering insights into current trends, business practices, and career pathways. Integral professional work placements are a key feature of the program, providing invaluable hands-on experience in real-world photographic settings, allowing students to build their professional networks and gain practical skills relevant to their career aspirations. The university's dedicated Careers and Placements team supports students in securing these opportunities.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Photography program at Leeds Trinity University incorporates a global perspective by acknowledging the international nature of photography as a visual language and a powerful tool for communication and cultural expression. The curriculum may explore the work of photographers from diverse cultural backgrounds and examine how photography is used to document and interpret different societies and global issues. Students are encouraged to consider the ethical and cultural implications of representing different cultures and individuals through their photographic work. The diverse student body at Leeds Trinity contributes to a rich intercultural learning environment, fostering an understanding of different visual aesthetics and perspectives. While specific study abroad opportunities may vary, the program aims to prepare graduates to be visually literate, culturally aware, and ethically responsible photographers who can engage with a globalized world through their creative practice.