Advanced Photography
Overview
Today's successful photographers know more than just their cameras - they're ready to design, edit, market, connect, and sell.
The Lambton College Advanced Photography program is a two-year, Ontario College graduate certificate program that provides students with the opportunity to expand their skills to work as professionals in the ever-evolving field of photography. Students learn advanced photography and post-production skills, and how to utilize drones for professional photographic images.
Our students prepare for this fast-paced and expanding career using modern digital photographic equipment in a state-of-the-art photography studio. The program offers some hybrid courses (offered online and in-class), giving students the benefits of flexible learning.
In today's Canadian photography industry, entrepreneurial spirit along with working with clients is paramount. As such, the curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including design and composition, digital darkroom, lighting and camera skills, and portfolio development.
At the core of the program is our state-of-practice photography and video studio, equipped with strobe, video and continuous light kits. Students work in this space both individually and as a group, using professional quality equipment.
Lens on Lambton
Students have the opportunity to collaborate with classmates as they photograph events both on and off campus, and they participate in a field study trip to New York City during the second year of the program.
See some of the student's work below.
Admission Requirements
- Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree or equivalent
The admissions process is competitive and meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.
Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel a program or course at any time; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways to third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College's sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.English Language Requirements
- IELTS of 6.0
- or -
- TOEFL iBT 69
- or -
- Passed Lambton Institute of English placement test
Please Note: IELTS is the only proficiency score accepted by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program. Additional country-specific requirements may also be applicable.
Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process.
Discover why our program is different
Costs
- Term 1 $7,711.63
- Term 2 $7,225.53
- Term 3 $8,125.53
- Term 4 $2,480.00
Total Cost of Program
Tuition fees are estimates and are subject to change each academic year. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.
Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel at any time a program or course; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.
Additional Fees
Incidentals
- Memory Card
- Students should buy an additional memory card for their camera (32 GB minimum at $50 each) and we suggest 1 TB ($50 - $250) external hard drive for their computer.
- Travel to Field Studies
- Students in this program participate in optional and/or mandatory field studies. There may be small additional costs and students will be required to find their own transportation to these field studies.
- Drone Photography Course
- DPH-2703 will be held at the Fire School at 459 LaSalle Line, Sarnia.
Students will be required to find their own transportation to the Fire School.
Important Dates, Deadline & Late Fees
For additional information on registration dates, deadlines and late fees please refer to Registration Dates and Deadlines.
Student Fees
A student services fee is included in your tuition.
Health Insurance Coverage
Emergency medical insurance is mandatory for all international students at Lambton College. This includes students who are full-time and part-time and who are on a co-op. This insurance is provided by GuardMe - a third party insurance provider.
See Insurance Costs & DetailsTechnology Requirements
In order to be prepared for the course work in this program there are specific computer, software, and camera requirements. Please see the More Information tab.
Labs & Equipment
Photography Studio
Lambton College's state-of-the-art photography and digital video studio enables students enrolled in the Photography program to develop their technical knowledge and engage their creative vision. The studio includes industry standard strobe, video and continuous light kits, lenses and other photography equipment. The studio also features a unique modular design that sections into five separate studios to create room for small groups or individuals to work.
Equipment Loan Program
As part of tuition, students have access to a wide range of lenses, lights, and associated grip equipment which is made available for study and location photography.
Courses
Lighting Techniques I
This course provides an introduction to choosing the appropriate light for your creative vision and making informed technical decisions about this light. By using demonstrations, theory, and practice, students will be given an opportunity to explore methods for the control and manipulation of available light sources. Emphasis is placed on lighting principles, quality of light, techniques and effective use of associated equipment. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative, and critical thinking while encouraging the students to take a practical approach to capture quality images. This course is delivered in a hybrid delivery method, meaning, two hours per week will take place in-class/studio/on-location while the remaining hour will be provided on-line.
Digital Darkroom I
This course is an introduction to Adobe Photoshop, Camera Raw, and Bridge with an emphasis on image processing. Students will learn to use essential retouching tools and begin to develop professional, industry-standard techniques. Foundational skills for restoration, image manipulation and black and white conversion will be covered.
Design & Composition for Canadian Photographers
In this course students analyze the internationally recognized criteria for good image composition and design principles in photographic and multimedia applications. The Rule of Thirds (with layers), diagonals, texture, colour versus black and white, viewpoint and perspective, contrast and the theory of light and colour will be explored. Students will apply basic industry standards to critique the work of their peers and themselves.
Digital Photography Techniques I
This course is the introduction to the fundamentals of digital photography and primarily focuses on technical aspects associated with digital cameras, lenses, and associated equipment. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking, while encouraging the students to take a practical approach at capturing quality images. This course is delivered in a hybrid delivery method, meaning, two hours per week will take place in-class/studio/on-location while the remaining hour will be provided on-line.
Popular Culture for Canadian Photographers
Industries of popular culture like fashion, music, art, and entertainment all enjoy a close relationship with photography. Mindful photographers are driven by popular culture to capture its most striking features and create provocative images that resonate with viewers. In turn, popular culture influences contemporary movements in visual art and photography. By practicing mindful critical thinking, students identify, interpret, and evaluate popular culture's dialogue with the photographic arts. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to examine the reciprocal relationship between popular culture and specifically the Canadian photography industry. This course is delivered in a hybrid delivery method, meaning, two hours per week will take place in-class/studio/on-location while the remaining hour will be provided online.
FUNdamentals of Entrepreneurship
FUNdamentals of Entrepreneurship is a gamified business simulation where students assume the role of an entrepreneur pursuing their passion of selling clothing online and in their retail store. The player subcribes to the guidance of a business coach and will build a successful venture in a virtual neighbourhood. The player can upgrade their store and operations by completed learning modules and testing. Through self-paced gameplay, students learn important concepts from Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, Health and Safety, Risk Management and more. In the process, they acquire the skills to effectively run a company as they upgrade their operation by completing learning modules and quizzes. Each student has a unique playing experience via ingame customizations, such as avatar creation, and store design. All content is contained within the game - no textbook is required. Students who have successfully completed MAN-1183 are not eligible to take this course.
History of Art & Canadian Photography
This course will study the history of photography from its inception, including both technological and artistic innovations in Canada and around the world. The course will also provide an overview of Art History, concentrating on the period from the Old Masters through to modern times, and has a focus on how this has impacted photography in Canada. Students will relate the posing, lighting, and composition of artists to photographic techniques. Students do not require a camera.
Lighting Techniques II
Lighting Techniques II is a continuation of DPH 1403. This course analyzes principles and practices of studio and location lighting using available, continuous and studio strobe light sources. It also provides students with technical and theoretical skills in lighting ratios, traditional portrait lighting techniques and three-dimensional contrast as well as emphasizing the importance of safe handling and management of studio lighting equipment. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking, while encouraging the students to take a practical approach at capturing quality images.
Digital Darkroom II
Instead of using conventional darkrooms, today's photographers process digital images using computer software and monitors. Digital Darkroom II explores advanced digital image editing and processing, printmaking, colour calibration, enhancement techniques and asset management using Adobe Photoshop and Bridge. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking, while encouraging the students to take a practical approach at editing and creating quality images.
Digital Photography Techniques II
Digital Photography Techniques II is a continuation of DPH 1003 and explores advanced techniques and theories of digital photography. The course will consist of discussions, demonstrations and supervised shooting with an emphasis on shoot production and studio management. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking, while encouraging the students to take a practical approach at capturing quality images. This course is delivered in a hybrid delivery method, meaning, two hours per week will take place in-class/studio/on-location while the remaining hour will be provided on-line.
Portrait & Wedding Photography I
This course provides extensive hands-on instruction on posing and capturing professional quality portraits and weddings, in the studio and on location. Students will also be taught the skills of running a portrait studio including marketing, pricing, dealing with clients and sourcing suppliers.
The Business of Photography in Canada
Being a great photographer is only part of the equation: you also have to be a great business person. A photographer's longevity is based not only on talent and skill, but on the financial aspects of being in business. In this course, we will navigate our way to a successful Canadian photography business through the practice of maintaining your artistic integrity while carefully integrating the components of Canadian business commerce. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking.
Video Production
As an introduction to video production, DPH-1703 will teach the fundamentals involved in video content creation from the perspective of a professional photographer. Photography students will learn foundational elements for planning, filming, and editing video productions for personal and professional use. During this course, students will have the opportunity to create their own video productions to showcase their photography work and to promote a local business.
Drone Photography I
The course explores the aerial photography and the requirements and knowledge of the Transport Canada basic drone exam. Join us as we delve into the evolution of aerial imaging, from its early beginnings to the cutting-edge technology of today. We work towards the knowledge required to pass the basic drone exam including flight regulations, airspace awareness, drone operation techniques, and safety protocols. By the end of this course, students gain an understanding of the significance of aerial photography and possess the expertise required to navigate the regulatory landscape of drone operations and have successfully passed their basic drone exam. This course is based on the Transport Canada standard for the Basic Drone Operators Certificate. Students are required to pass the Transport Canada Basic Drone Certification with a passing grade of 65% before being allowed to fly any drone over 249g as per the Canadian law. This must be passed before the beginning of the DPH-2703 Drone Photography II course.
Commercial Photography
Recognize the inter-relationship between theory and practice of photography and the range of professional and commercial applications of photographic technique. The course explores commercial photography, the creation, sub-categories, marketing, sales and value of images produced for corporate, marketing and business purposes.
Portrait & Wedding Photography II
This course explores the contemporary and historical methods of portrait and wedding photography. Through lectures and in-class demonstrations, students develop the skills of posing and capturing, as well as marketing and sales, of unique and professional quality portraits.
Photojournalism
This course emphasizes the story-telling aspects of photography. From the historical importance to the ability to enact societal changes, photography is a powerful media that has a huge presence in our lives. With that presence, comes the ethical and moral issues that a Photojournalist must consider and understand. The course explores the many facets of Photojournalism including; sports; documentary; news; feature; portraiture photography.
DIgital Darkroom III
Instead of using conventional darkrooms, today's photographer processes digital images using computer software and monitors. Digital Darkroom III explores advanced digital image editing and processing, printmaking, colour calibration, enhancement techniques and asset management using Adobe Photoshop, Camera Raw, and Bridge. The learning is evaluated through assessments that have been designed to promote technical, creative and critical thinking while encouraging the students to take a practical approach to edit and creating quality images and prints.
Drone Photography II
This course combines the thrill of flying with the artistry of capturing aerial imagery. Throughout the course, students master a range of flying techniques, including precision control, maneuvering in challenging environments, and executing cinematic shots. Additionally, students delve into the principles of composition and storytelling to craft visually compelling photographs from a unique aerial perspective. Through a series of engaging photography exercises and hands-on flight sessions, students refine your skills and develop your own style. The course culminates in the creation of a portfolio that showcases student abilities and allows them to promote their expertise and open doors to exciting opportunities in the world of aerial photography. Students must have successfully passed the Transport Canada Basic Drone Certification before being allowed to fly any drone over 249g as per current Canadian law.
Social Media Marketing
This course explores online marketing tools and tactics, such as social media, email, digital advertising and content marketing, that businesses can use to build a profitable relationship with their customers. Students engage in simulated social media, email and digital advertising campaigns to gain a better understanding of how to use these tools in their marketing efforts. Along with learning about digital and social media marketing, students learn general principles of marketing that are key for every business, regardless of industry or size: identifying who your customers are; understanding what needs they have that you are uniquely able to serve; creating a brand voice that speaks to them; identifying who your competitors are; deciding how to differentiate your offering from theirs; and creating a plan for engaging customers across social media and digital advertising platforms.
WIL Project
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Project is aimed at enriching students by connecting different program areas of study, cutting across subject-matter lines, and emphasizing unifying concepts. The focus of the WIL Project is to make connections between study and industry by engaging students in relevant and meaningful activities that are connected to and practiced within the professional workplace. WIL Project allows students to enhance and strengthen their employability prospects post-graduation by fine tuning skills and knowledge and meeting the expectations of today's employers. Students are required to attend the scheduled shifts in the WIL office, reporting to the WIL Supervisor. Weekly real-world challenges are presented in the WIL office, designed by industry professionals. In addition to the weekly assigned deliverables, students are also offered professional development sessions, and exposed to industry guest speakers, enhancing their opportunity to develop their professional network.
Portfolio Development (optional)
A portfolio is a showcase of an artist's best work, and an effective presentation is a vital foundational piece to a professional career. Self-promotion is crucial in the competitive world of photography and creative methods of showcasing your work will garner attention. Developing a collection of outstanding photographs to promote yourself is a key, first step in the pursuit of gainful employment. This course enables you to create and curate an original body of work for display in a public space, on-line, and in a traditional portfolio. Throughout the term, students have ongoing support and the opportunity to receive feedback on their in-process work and completed projects.
WIL Project Prerequisites (CPL-5559)
In order to continue onto Term 4, the following requirements must be met:
- Overall GPA of 2.0 or greater
- No more than two outstanding courses in addition to CPL-5559 WIL Project
- These courses must be able to fit your WIL schedule - conflict free
- Courses scheduled back-to-back with you WIL shits are considered in conflict
Contact
Centre for Global Engagement
LAMBTON COLLEGE SARNIA
1457 London Road
Sarnia ON, N7S 6K4
After Graduation
Employment Opportunities
Our graduates pursue a variety of employment opportunities as travel, sports, portrait, photojournalism, wedding and fashion photographers. They can also work in the areas of photo manipulation or as restoration artists or multi-media professionals.
Careers exist in commercial, corporate, private or personal businesses.
Graduates are encouraged to understand their niche and pursue it passionately. Relocation should be considered depending on the career aspirations of graduates.
Looking for Support After Graduation?
The International Graduate Services & Support Centre (GSSC) is a place dedicated to assisting International alumni as they seek employment and settle into Canadian life following graduation.
Post-Graduate Employment
International students who successfully complete their programs of study at Lambton College may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. This program allows students to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
A work permit under the PGWP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student's study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length. The length and approval of the PGWP is determined solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Students must meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a post-graduation work permit.
Immigration Regulations & Changes
Immigration regulations are legislated by the Federal Government of Canada and are subject to change at any time without notice. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are in compliance with all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada regulations at all times during their studies and while in Canada. Lambton College staff are not authorized to provide advice or guidance on immigration-related matters. Prospective applicants and current students should consult the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website or call the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 to answer or clarify any immigration-related questions or information.
Educational Pathways
International Center of Photography
After graduating from Lambton College's Photography program, students can enter into the first year of the International Center of Photography certificate program. This one-year program allows for the following three streams:
All students applying to the International Center of Photography follow the same admissions process and submit applications regardless of prior diplomas.
Sheridan College
Graduates of Lambton College's Photography program are eligible to transfer to the Honours Bachelor of Photography - Degree Completion program at Sheridan College. Interested students must have finished Lambton College's program no later than 2005 and must have a GPA of 2.4 or greater.
More Information
Technology Requirements
Computer
This program requires a Macbook Pro or a PC with equivalent processing power. There are currently three Macbook Pro models that qualify:
Macbook Options
- 13 inch 2.4 GHz
- Quad-core processor, 256 GB storage
- Available from Apple for $2,399
- 16 inch 2.6 GHz
- 6-core processor, 512 GB
- Available from Apple for $2,999
- 16 inch 2.3 GHz
- 8-core processor, 1 TB storage
- Available from Apple for $3,499
Additionally, a 500 GB or 1 TB external hard drive is recommended.
PC Models
- Dell XPS 15
- CPU: Intel Core i5-7300HG - i7-
RAM: 8GB - 16GB
Storage: 512GB
$1910 - Huawei Matebook X Pro
- CPU: 8th generation Intel Core i5 - i7
RAM: 8GB - 16GB
Storage: 512GB
$1600
Software
With software, do not purchase before enrolling in the program. Usually your letter of acceptance into the program will allow you to purchase Educational versions. The price difference is significant compared to normal prices.
- Adobe CC Master Collection - Creative Cloud
- Student pricing for Creative Cloud is currently $19.99 month.
Camera
Students must have a DSLR or a mirrorless camera that includes a manual mode, as well as a video capability. (If the camera does not have video capability of a minimum 10 minutes, the student must also acquire a video recorder.)
The college will have a collection of specialty lenses that students are encouraged to borrow. It is recommended that students consider one of the following models. Check with the program coordinator if more recent models are available.
- Nikon D780 with 24-120mm lens
- $3,599
- Nikon D7500 with 18-140 VR lens
- $1,599
- Nikon Z5 Mirrorless Kit w/ Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 Lens
- $2,199
- Sony Alpha A7IV Mirrorless Kit w/ FE 28-70mm f/2.5-5.6 OSS Lens
- $3,399.99
- Canon EOS 6D MKII with 24-105 mm lens
- $3,049.99
- Canon EOS R7 w/ 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 lens
- $2,499
- Canon EOS Rebel T8i with 18-55 mm lens
- $1,129.99
- Canon EOS R6 w/ RF 24-105 IS STM Lens
- $3,499.99
Student Responsibilities
- Course and program delivery schedules are proposed and subject to change for each intake.
- Students are required to bring their own laptop with wireless capability.
- Students are advised to bring an official copy of their most recent police clearance, driver's license, and vaccination record from their home country.
