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Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging CUA41120
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Overview

This course provides students with fundamental photographic skills and knowledge through largely practice-based instruction. It serves as the foundation to the more advanced and specialised study undertaken during the Diploma. Students will engage in a range of group and self-initiated activities and produce professional standard photographic folios on location and in the studio. Content includes image capture, enhancement, manipulation, printing and output for a range or purposes, lighting techniques, applied photo theory, imaging traditions, work safety and industry awareness.

Qualification:

 Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging CUA41120

Next Intake:

 Semester 1 2025

Course No:

 C4-BD63

Campus:

 CIT Reid*


*From Semester 2 2025, the location of this course will transition from CIT Reid to the new CIT Woden campus. CIT will provide support for students who will be making the move to Woden. Learn more.

Duration:

 2 semesters of full-time study, approximately 20 hours per week with the addition of approx. 10 hours online, self-directed learning and skill development per week (or, pro-rata equivalent for part-time study)

Cost Info:

Enrolment fees for this course are based on the costs per subject as indicated below. The total course cost may vary depending on the choice of elective subjects or if subjects are attempted more than once. Subject costs identified as Standard are partially subsidised by the ACT Government. Concessions may be available to eligible students.

Indicative Cost:

 $4,070

Likely Job Outcome:

 This qualification reflects the role of people who apply a broad range of skills in photo imaging, including lighting, image capture, enhancements and manipulation and output. They work in job roles, such as:
- digital content creator
- photographers assistant
- photo lab technician
- photo store specialist
- studio assistant

Application Type:

 Standard
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Timetable Information

To help with the enrolment process print your timetable, or keep the window open, so that you can refer back to it for your course code, course name, and the Course Reference Numbers (CRNs) or Block Code.

Additional Information

You are required to have your own DSLR camera to complete this course. Successful applicants who do not yet own suitable equipment should seek advice from staff in their first week of classes. It is recommended that students do not make purchases without proper advice.

You may also be required to pay additional ongoing costs of up to $1000 for the year to cover materials, excursions and exhibition fees.

Entry Requirements

Skills Recognition

To study any course at CIT (excluding non-accredited training) you must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI).

Literacy Skills Information

We suggest that you will need Australian Core Skills Framework literacy levels of at least 3 across reading, writing, learning, oral communication and, depending on your course of study, numeracy skills to successfully complete this course. If you do not have this level, you can still enrol and seek support to improve your skills or you may prefer to begin with the lower level course. Please visit Foundation Skills.

Transition Information

Qualifications at CIT are regularly updated or replaced to meet current industry needs and maximise your employment opportunities. If this occurs while you are part way through a qualification, you may need to vary your learning to meet the new national requirements. CIT will aim to make this as smooth as possible for you.

Subject Cancellations/Changes

To ensure positive outcomes for all students, CIT may need to cancel or change classes at short notice. CIT will make every effort to inform students as soon as changes are made and will also make every effort to offer alternative arrangements for students to meet the requirements of the subject and complete their qualification. In an unfortunate instance when this cannot be met, you will receive a full refund. Please ensure you maintain current contact details via CIT Self Service or by contacting CIT Student Services at infoline@cit.edu.au.


Subject Information

Complete 15 subjects

Core: Complete all 7

  • CUAPHI313   Process photo images
    • CIT Code: ARTS377
      Cost: Standard $560.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce multiple proof sheets and digital files that demonstrate the application of selected photo imaging techniques consistent with a specific brief.It applies to individuals who are responsible for completing digital processes. They could be working in photo centres or photography studios. At this level, work may be undertaken independently or with supervision, depending on the work context.No licensing, legislative or certification conditions apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAWHS312   Apply work health and safety practices
    • CIT Code: ARTS366
      Cost: Standard $75.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to apply work health and safety (WHS) requirements, including implementing safe work practices, participating in risk assessment and control, and following emergency procedures in the creative industries.The unit applies to those who are required to identify their individual WHS responsibilities and implement procedures to work safely in creative industry work contexts.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPHI403   Enhance, manipulate and output photo images
    • CIT Code: PHOT194
      Cost: Standard $385.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to enhance photo images ready for output. This process could be digital or using a wet darkroom.It applies to individuals who use techniques to enhance and resolve the concept for the image. They may work in photo centres, specialised photo processing laboratories or photography studios.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPPR403   Store and maintain finished creative work
    • CIT Code: ARTS194
      Cost: Standard $165.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select a finished creative work for storage, assess its storage needs, protect it while preparing it for storage, and maintain it during storage. The unit also involves interpreting and applying archival principles and values during the process.It applies to individuals who work in all areas of creative practice. They could be responsible for storing and maintaining finished works in their own practice, or those in an artist-run studio, gallery, exhibition space or educational institution.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPHI311   Develop and apply photo imaging industry knowledge
    • CIT Code: ARTS378
      Cost: Standard $100.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain currency and apply up-to-date information on the photo imaging industry, including the industry structure and operation, employment obligations and impact of new technology. It involves seeking out credible information, applying gathered information and updating industry knowledge where required.The unit applies to those who work in commercial contexts, such as photographic studios or photo printing and processing businesses but could also be applied to those who produce photographic works for exhibition. No licensing, legislative or certification conditions apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPHI411   Capture images in response to a brief
    • CIT Code: ARTS379
      Cost: Standard $690.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and prepare for a camera shoot, execute the image capture process, review work and complete post-shoot activities. The unit applies to those who produce photographs for print or electronic media and for a range of contexts including weddings, special events, portraits, forensics, art photography and specialist publications.No licensing, legislative or certification conditions apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPHI412   Apply photo imaging lighting techniques
    • CIT Code: ARTS380
      Cost: Standard $470.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to set up, select and apply lighting to a range of subjects in different work spaces.It applies to individuals who use light and shoot photos in a variety of contexts, including the fashion industry, advertising, live entertainment and screen and media, as well as those who use photography as a creative medium.Testing and tagging of electrical equipment must be carried out by a person with the relevant certificate of competency according to the performance specifications of Australian Standard 3760: 2000 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and Australian Standard 3002: 1985 Electrical installations - shows and carnivals.
      Prerequisites: Nil

Electives: Complete 8

  • CUADIG415   Produce innovative digital images
    • CIT Code: ARTS369
      Cost: Standard $250.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to experiment with digital imaging techniques and ideas to develop an individual style or voice. The unit applies to those who produce digital images for electronic media or physical/online display in art publications and galleries. They organise and finalise these digital images, evaluating their work and making required changes. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAACD411   Integrate colour theory and design processes
    • CIT Code: ARTS381
      Cost: Standard $165.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to investigate and combine colour theory and design processes into two-dimensional or three-dimensional work. It involves researching theories involving colour and design processes, communicating ideas through the application of these theories and evaluating associated design work. The unit applies to those who use design processes in visual communication situations.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUADES412   Interpret and respond to a design brief
    • CIT Code: ARTS382
      Cost: Standard $125.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to interpret and creatively respond to a design brief through the production of work. Individuals are required to integrate the creative, communication and planning processes that support effective response to a design brief.The unit applies to those who work in any industry or design context where work is prescribed by a commissioning agent/client in a brief. Work is carried out independently, although guidance is available if required. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPPR314   Participate in collaborative creative projects
    • CIT Code: ARTS383
      Cost: Standard $250.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to contribute to the production of a collaborative creative project. It involves contributing to the project set-up and development, and using technical skills, tools, materials and equipment to assist with the project's realisation.The unit applies to those who are using and developing their skills when collaborating on creative projects in different creative areas. The projects could include community art projects organised through local councils, business organisations or educational institutions.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUARES403   Research history and theory to inform own arts practice
    • CIT Code: ARTS164
      Cost: Standard $260.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use investigative and critical thinking techniques to evaluate history and theory information and distil key themes and ideas. It applies to individuals working in all areas of arts practice.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPHI312   Capture photographic images
    • CIT Code: ARTS384
      Cost: Standard $250.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to capture photographic images using different techniques and camera technologies. It involves preparing for image capture, previewing the image, reviewing and enhancing to meet project requirements and finalising the image capture process.It applies to individuals who are planning a career in photo imaging, or in contexts where photography may not be the primary job role or focus of work activity. No licensing, legislative or certification conditions apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPPR415   Develop and discuss ideas for own creative work
    • CIT Code: ARTS364
      Cost: Standard $225.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and discuss ideas for own creative work. It involves research and analysis, and participation in critical and informed discussion with others about the creative work for a particular art form.The unit applies to those who work in a creative practice in any medium. This work would usually be carried out under mentored supervision.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil
  • CUAPPR312   Document the creative work progress
    • CIT Code: ARTS412
      Cost: Standard $100.00
      Description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to document the conception, development and progress of own creative work. The unit applies to individuals who work in a creative practice in any medium, and document their own creative work for personal use, as professional development informing future work; or for background information in an exhibition, or for research purposes, or to comply with the requirements of a funding body. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
      Prerequisites: Nil

Related Courses

Diploma Photography and Digital Imaging CUA50920

More Information

For more information about this course please contact CIT Student Services on (02) 6207 3188 or email infoline@cit.edu.au