This two-year Ontario College Diploma program is designed to train students to capture, create, and alter images, and demonstrate a professional level of craft and creativity in digital imaging. Digital knowledge and skills are integrated with the fundamentals of photography to emphasize the creation of images that communicate effectively and meet the needs of clients. Although this program is quite technical, students are encouraged to showcase their creative visual talents while designing and capturing images that successfully communicate their message.

Students create a state of-the-art portfolio and a website using high-end digital cameras to capture professional quality images that demonstrate their creative or technical skills and abilities. Algonquin's large photography studios are equipped with up-to-date tungsten and electronic flash lighting systems, lighting booms, soft-boxes, and professional backdrops.

Students produce high-quality images using industry-standard software in the College's networked, post-production computer labs. These labs are equipped with Macintosh Cinema Display monitors, film and flatbed scanners, ink-jet and laser printers, viewing booths, mounting press, and colour management systems.

Entrepreneurship and networking skills are taught in conjunction with professional photographic association guidelines. Students also complete two weeks of field work gaining valuable practical and networking experience. The program of study culminates with a professional exhibition of student work to which potential employers and industry representatives are invited.

Students are trained on a Macintosh platform which is the industry standard in the field of photography. PC platforms are not acceptable because they are not compatible with the hardware, software, and photographic equipment used in this program.

This is a mandatory laptop program and students are required to use a Macintosh laptop computer that meets minimum hardware and software specifications. For more information, see the website algonquincollege.com/MediaAndDesign/programs/photography.htm Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin's New Technology Store at educational discounted rates.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Are self-motivated, personable, and well-organized.
• Enjoy the technical nature of photography.
• Have an aptitude for computer technology.
• Are creative.
• Have a keen sense of entrepreneurship.