Digital Photography
Certificate
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CERTIFICATE PROGRAM OVERVIEW
As a student enrolled in RMCAD’s Digital Photography Certificate Program, you will build the technical foundation needed to become a working professional photographer while being exposed to the potential career paths within the photography industry.
The coursework covers necessary skills such as manual camera operation, the use of strobe lighting, working with clients, and developing an efficient workflow using industry-standard software. Students will be mentored by our passionate faculty, who are all creative professionals in the industry that are driven by student success!
*If you ultimately decide to pursue a BFA, all credits earned in the certificate can be applied to RMCAD’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography, available on campus or online.
This average is for students who are full time and enrolled in consecutive terms.
For more information, please visit here.
SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN
Camera Operation
Studio Lighting
Portraiture
Digital Image Management
Post-Processing Techniques
STEPS TO ADMISSION
1
Complete your artist meeting with an admissions counselor.
2
Submit an admissions application.
3
Create and submit your portfolio to be considered for a scholarship.
4
Submit official high school and college transcripts (for transfer students).
5
Submit the current year’s FAFSA and other financial aid documentation.
ACCREDITATION
TUITION + FINANCIAL AID
At RMCAD, we understand that investing in a college education is a major decision and a major investment. That’s why we offer competitive, affordable tuition when compared to other art and design colleges. Students’ tuition rates are locked in at the time of their initial start date and will not increase as long as they remain enrolled in their program!
*For the Digital Photography Certificate, it is 18 credits at $740/credit.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CERTIFICATE COURSE DETAILS
RMCAD’s digital photography classes are designed to not only help students develop important foundational photography skills, but also develop compelling portfolios that are a direct reflection of their unique vision!
Digital Photography Certificate Courses (18 Credits)
PH 1000
Survey of Photography (Can use phone camera, DSLR camera is ideal)
(3 Credits)
PH 1100
Photography Principles (DSLR camera required)
(3 Credits)
PH 1150
Color Management + Output
(3 Credits)
PH 1500
Lighting I: Fundamentals
(3 Credits)
PH 2100
Digital Post Production
(3 Credits)
PH 2200
Portraiture
(3 Credits)
TECH + TOOLS
A photographer must be equipped with the right tools, but that doesn’t necessarily mean equipment. RMCAD’s Digital Photography Certificate prepares students by teaching photography fundamentals such as:
● Lighting
● Digital imaging
● Portraiture
● Post-production photo editing
● Color management + digital workflow
● Experimental photographic processes
● Photographic tools powered by Artificial Intelligence
Students enrolled in the Digital Photography Certificate also have access to EDU discounts at educational equipment retailers, like Adorama and B&H Photo.
GET TO KNOW OUR GRADS
Digital Photography Stories
Fine Art Photography Q+A: Creating Gallery-Worthy Images with Charla Ann
Fine Arts student, Charla Ann, will be the first to tell you she isn’t much of a photographer, so why is her show “Mnemosyne” full of dozens of photographs from her life? “Mnemosyne” was on
The Science of Composition: Understanding Visual Balance
Understanding visual balance is a skill that can take a photographer’s work from novice to advanced with the help of proper guidance and technique. Whether it’s out in the field practicing the rule of thirds
Maximizing Your Digital Photography Certificate: Career Paths and Opportunities
Interested in a career as a photographer but aren’t quite ready to commit to a full-fledged photography degree program? You may want to instead consider a digital photography certificate program, which can help you build
digital PHOTOGRAPHY CAREERS
In today’s very visual world, there are so many opportunities for talented photographers. With a Digital Photography Certificate from RMCAD, you can pursue exciting careers.
Portrait Photographer
Portrait photographers capture images of subjects ranging from individuals to pets, families and other groups. Their work can be used for keepsakes, company websites, school photos, headshots, or to tell a story. Portrait photographers often edit their work and allow the client to select their favorites.
Retoucher
A retoucher is a professional hired to edit work that another photographer captures, including portrait, event or other photography. They are either hired directly from a photographer or a client. They use computer software to edit photographs and focus on updating tone, color, size or composition of images.
Photo Studio Assistant
A photo studio assistant works under a photographer and helps plan, set up and complete photoshoots either in studios or at on-site locations. An entry level role, this position is helpful for individuals just entering the field and looking to learn the ropes of being a professional photographer.
Event Photographer
An event photographer is in charge of capturing and documenting photos at events, which can include corporate functions, weddings, concerts, award galas, and more. Their role goes beyond photographing the people and activities at an event, but capturing the feeling and emotion behind it.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the focus of the Digital Photography Certificate Program at RMCAD?
The program focuses on building technical skills in manual camera operation, studio lighting, portraiture, digital image management, and post-processing techniques.
What career opportunities are available for digital photography graduates?
Graduates will acquire the knowledge and skills to start careers as professional photographers, studio photographers, photo editors, and digital retouching specialists.
How are online courses delivered in the Digital Photography Certificate Program?
Courses are delivered through an interactive online platform, featuring video lectures, assignments, discussion boards, peer reviews, and opportunities to communicate and collaborate with peers and instructors.
What skills will students learn in the Digital Photography Certificate Program?
Students will learn camera settings, lighting techniques, portraiture skills, digital workflow management, and photo editing.
What are the technical requirements for the Digital Photography Certificate Program?
Students need a computer that meets RMCAD’s specifications, a DSLR or mirrorless camera, reliable internet access, and relevant photo editing software. For more information on program materials, visit here.
What support services are available for digital photography students?
All students receive software licensing, a LinkedIn Learning subscription, LMS access, electronic library resources, cybersecurity, mental health counseling, and tutoring services through their semester fees.
What are the admission requirements for the Digital Photography Certificate Program?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of the college’s application process. To be considered for a scholarship, students will also need to create and submit a portfolio of artwork.
How does RMCAD ensure the quality of online education?
RMCAD ensures quality through experienced faculty, regularly updated curriculum, and interactive, hands-on coursework designed for online delivery.
Are there any opportunities for online students to collaborate on projects?
Yes, online students can collaborate on projects through virtual classrooms, group assignments, and online forums.
What are the advantages of studying digital photography online at RMCAD?
Advantages include flexible scheduling, access to industry-standard tools, feedback from instructors, and the ability to study from anywhere.
What software and tools are used in the Digital Photography Certificate Program?
Students use professional photo software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. For more information on program materials, visit here.
Can online students participate in RMCAD's campus events?
Yes, online students are welcome to participate in campus events, exhibitions, and graduation ceremonies. Visit the events calendar here.
How do online students showcase their work?
Online students can showcase their work through virtual galleries, online exhibitions, and by creating professional portfolios. Students can also have their work featured in the Focal Point Gallery, a showcase of work by RMCAD photography students, available virtually and on display in the EPIC building.
What makes RMCAD's Digital Photography Certificate Program unique?
The program’s focus on both technical and creative skills, access to professional-grade equipment discounts, and comprehensive online support sets it apart.
