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All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
| Higher Certificate in Photography and Videography |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 122288 | Higher Certificate in Photography and Videography | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| The Open Window (Pty) Ltd | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| CHE - Council on Higher Education | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| Higher Certificate | Field 02 - Culture and Arts | Film, Television and Video | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 120 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
| Registered | EXCO 0623/24 | 2024-04-18 | 2027-04-18 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2028-04-18 | 2031-04-18 | |||
| In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Photography and Videography is to equip learners with the introductory knowledge and skills required to enter the photography and videography sector of the creative industry. Learners will be taught the fundamental principles of photography and videography in an applied approach and obtain an overview of basic theoretical principles related to the skill-based focus. The qualification provides school-leavers and young professionals with the opportunity to gain exposure and knowledge in the field of photography which can be developed and built upon through further academic study and/or industry practice. Although there is a basic theoretical component to the qualification, the main assessment components and outcomes are predominantly practice-based with a particular focus on skill development. Learners will participate in practical workshops and activities where they will practise and gain an understanding of the technical approaches and principles concerned with photographic practice, videography, basic video editing, and foundational image retouching. Assignments will be presented as workplace-based photographic briefs that learners must complete technically and creatively. At the end of the year, the learner will be expected to compile a body of work that consists of assignments they created throughout the year. The body of work will serve as evidence of their technical skillset acquired throughout the qualification and can be used to demonstrate their abilities upon entering the industry and ultimately serve them in generating an income. Learners will also be able to use this body of work as a portfolio when applying for further studies. Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to: Rationale: Photography has always been intrinsically tied to technology and with the technological advancements made, photographers have had to expand their portfolios to demonstrate digital imaging capabilities and to display the ability to confidently operate within various multimedia platforms. The qualification is practical, skills-based and is supported through theoretical and contextual explorations presented at a foundational level. A decline in learner numbers enrolled in photography has been experienced over the last five years, which indicates a necessary rethinking of current offerings. Based on the industry's demands as well as competitive offerings, the added videography component will greatly increase the number of learners qualified in photography and videography. The qualification will not only greatly expand the learner's skill set, but it will also allow them to better compete on an entrepreneurial basis and assist them in furthering their studies. Photo and videography play a crucial role in recording the view of the world, whether it is through an advertisement, for self-promotion, a social media post, or in the headlines of a well-known media outlet. Research has shown that text accompanied by a photograph is ten times more likely to get engagement. Visitors are 80% more likely to engage with content on social media platforms if it is paired with an image and 64% more likely to remember what they read or heard and as the visual literacy of the public and competitive market increases, so does the need for high-end imagery. The combination of videography and photography is aligned with the growth in demand for digital content by brands, businesses and other organisations for online marketing, general use on the web, and social media. These skills are in demand in sectors such as corporate, retail, editorial content, e-commerce, journalism, and entertainment. Upon completion of the qualification, learners can confidently work within the commercial market by applying their skills to a variety of sectors, such as the fashion and consumer industry, real estate sector, stock image libraries, product and e-commerce photography, corporate photography, video editing or photo retouching and/or lifestyle genres like family shoots and wedding photography to name a few. Learners will be able to operate as both a stills photographer and/or a videographer and they will also be equipped to work as an assistant to a professional photographer/videographer or can operate as an entrepreneurial freelance photographer, social media content creator, studio assistant etc. The qualification is purposefully structured to develop the learner's photography and videography skills which are mostly in demand in the commercial photography market. Learners will design principles, creative lighting solutions, appropriate application of post-production skills and create photographic imagery for both print and digital platforms can contribute to corporate and editorial photography, retouching and video editing, as well as lifestyle and stock library markets. Learners with an understanding of lighting, pre-and post-production and camera functionality may become a part of the imaging market in the capacity of entry-level photographers, junior image retouches, video editors, professional photographer's assistants, runners (film production), film production lighting assistants, studio assistants, social media content creators, bloggers, vloggers and can also operate as freelance photographers and/or videographers. Most institutions currently offer short courses or higher certificates in either photography or film. By combining photography and videography the qualification will keep up with the growing demands of the photographic industry. The qualification will be practice-based with assignments based on industry demands. |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. The following RPL processes may be applied. RPL for access: RPL for exemption of modules: RPL for credit: Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or Or |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits:
Compulsory modules, Level 5, 110 Credits: Elective modules, Level 5, 10 Credits (Select one module from the following options): Or |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Demonstrate the ability to think and communicate visually by applying the learnt skills of drawing, visual perception, and composition.
2. Demonstrate the ability to read, reflect on, understand, and process information from a variety of academic and design sources and apply critical thinking skills to structure an academically sound essay and practical project supported by the research. 3. Demonstrate a broad understanding of the creative industry in terms of business potential, different types of creative specialisations and creative disciplines as professional occupations. 4. Demonstrate an understanding of camera anatomy, lighting principles, knowledge of various technological equipment associated with the photographic market, and exposure control. 5. Apply theories of aesthetics, design, composition, and colour to a variety of assignments. 6. Display an understanding and basic competence in the use of relevant post-production software. 7. Compile and present work in a professional manner (verbally, visually and written). 8. Demonstrate the ability to work both individually as well as collaboratively. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4 Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5 Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6 Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7 Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8 INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT The institution's Assessment Policies reflect the alignment with the principles of good assessment as prescribed by SAQA in the National Policy and Criteria for Designing and Implementing Assessment for NQF Qualifications and Part-Qualifications and Professional Designations in South Africa (2017). Assessment tasks are well-designed and reflect the qualification's outcomes, content, and assessment criteria and suitable time frames. The qualification is assessed based on integrated assessment principles whereby learning outcomes, which have a defined purpose including specific and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed simultaneously. As such, a combination of formative (assessment during the process of learning and teaching) and summative (assessment based on the judgement of achievement during the qualification at the end of the programme) assessment facilitates evaluation within the context of this qualification. Summative assessments will be assessed and moderated internally at the end of each term. At the end of the year, learners will compile an extensive body of work that will cover both photography and videography-related assignments. This body of work will be offered as evidence of their photography and videography skillset. After an internal mark has been awarded for the skills-based portfolio, this mark will also be moderated by an external moderator. The assessment criterion is based on each of the learning outcomes of the qualification, where assessments will be performance-based and focus on the ability of the learners to apply their knowledge, practical skills, and applied competence. The assessment criterion will also outline the various degrees of assessment for specific learning outcomes that require a deeper understanding of previous concepts and skills. Furthermore, learners must demonstrate that they can achieve the learning outcomes in a manner that is integrated and can deal with ever-changing demands related to the environmental conditions in occupational contexts. Formative assessment The learner's ongoing competencies in all core and fundamental modules that form part of this qualification are assessed during each term and support the teaching and learning process of learners. The following formative assessment tools are employed in the qualification: The assessment consists of a series of formative weekly quizzes completed over each term. This continued monitoring of the theory helps identify learners who could struggle with their technology and/or theoretical understanding which might also hinder their practical application. For the remaining modules, verbal and written feedback and informal assessment are conducted through periodic group presentations and/or feedback sessions as well as one-on-one critique sessions with the qualification coordinator and subject specialists. Summative assessment: Summative assessments will take place at the end of each term where learners must achieve the necessary learning outcomes relevant to each term. The summative assessment is a combination of the quizzes. Learners are required to receive a minimum of 50% for these quizzes to pass. Learners will present a review of their practical work each term to the internal examiner(s) who will assess the learner's progress up to that point. Examiner(s) will offer applicable advice to assist the learner in achieving the desired high standard of excellence associated with the qualification. This will allow the examiner(s) an opportunity to identify learners who are struggling with the current content and offer additional support and guidance to ensure learners are successful with their future assessments. Two internal examiners will assess the end-of-year portfolio mark. This portfolio mark consists of two final projects and counts 20% towards the final mark: After every term, learners can use the feedback given by the internal examiner(s) to better their work and/or rework certain assignments. At the end of the year, learners can choose from the assignments completed over the course of the program and compile them into a printed portfolio book. This portfolio book will be used as a body of evidence showcasing the learner's technical skillset according to the outcomes subscribed. This body of work can be used as a portfolio when applying for further studies or used to promote themselves as freelance photographers. Learners need to create a self-promotional video or digital showreel to be used for social media. The video will be assessed according to certain outcomes and will showcase their video and editing skills. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| The institution explored qualifications that offer a similar structure to the Higher Certificate in Photography and Videography, which are included in this section. This section refers to qualifications that extend the traditional photographic offering to also include videography.
Country: United States of America Institution: New York Film Academy Duration: one year Entry Requirements: All learners pursuing a certificate must show proof of high school graduation. To fulfil this requirement, applicants must submit ONE of the following documents: Purpose: The qualification is designed to equip learners with the practical skills of still photography, as well as videography from a photographer's perspective. As the goal of the qualification is to teach aspiring visual artists practical photography skills and techniques, in this hands-on qualification, learners also complete a variety of projects for their portfolio and learn how to manage their brand as a photographer. Upon graduation, learners will earn a college credit-bearing Certificate. Individuals with varying levels of photography skills are welcome to apply. The curriculum includes Photography, Imaging, History of Photography, Personal Project Creation and Management, and The Photographic Essay Similarities: Differences: Country: Australia Institution: The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Qualification Title: Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging Duration: One year full-time Entry requirements There are no minimum academic entry requirements. All applicants must complete and submit the following mandatory personal statement: Purpose: The qualification is designed to reflect the role of individuals working as photographers' assistants. Learners will apply a broad range of skills in lighting, image capture, enhancements, manipulation and print output. Upon successful completion, qualifying learners will advance to areas of specialisation in the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging. Learners will produce highly professional folios of work both on location and in the studio and gain technical skills to plan, carry out and evaluate photo imaging services. Qualification Structure The qualification requires the completion of the following compulsory modules: Assessment methods: The assessment will be conducted through portfolios, printed output, written documentation, essay work, online testing, and exhibitions. Although some projects are team-oriented, most work is individual. Similarities: Differences: Country: United States of America Institution: North Georgia Technical College Qualification Title: Certificate in Photography Duration: One year Entry requirements: Learners must provide official high school certificates. Purpose: The NGTC Photography qualification provides learners with a solid foundation in the technical, creative, and business skills needed to be a professional photographer When graduates complete the qualification, they have the knowledge and skills necessary to run a successful photography business. Qualification structure: The qualification covers the fundamentals of photography and learners gain experience in portraiture, lifestyle, commercial, nature, multimedia (introduction to videography), and photojournalism. In addition, to the fundamental topics covered learners also gain essential Photoshop skills, produce a professional portfolio, complete a business plan, and have an introduction to marketing. Similarities: Differences: The NGTC qualification takes more of a theoretical approach to photography and covers topics such as photojournalism, nature and landscape photography which apply to learners who would like to pursue photography as a serious hobby or are interested in niche markets whereas the SA qualification is more practical and vocational oriented which addresses the South African commercial market. Country: France Institution name: Spéos Qualification title: Diploma in Professional Photography NQF Level: Registre National des Certifications Professionnelles (RNCP) Level 6 Duration: One Year Entry requirements: Purpose: The qualification is aimed at learners who wish to acquire current skills and techniques within professional photography and put them into practice. This includes photo reportage, studio photography, fashion photography, corporate photography, art direction, image management and publication. Professional certification allows its holder to certify the skills and knowledge necessary to exercise a profession or activity corresponding to a professional domain. It provides a guarantee of the ability to be immediately operational in the field of work. After the first semester which is dedicated to obtaining core skills, learners can choose to specialise in studio photography or photo reportage. Outside of class, learners independently organise their shooting sessions and complete post-production, with the continual guidance of their supervisors. Particular attention is paid to the synchronisation of subject matters taught in the different qualifications. Similarities: Differences: |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification allows possibilities for horizontal and vertical articulation.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: Diagonal Articulation There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| N/A |
| CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
| N/A |
| NOTES |
| N/A |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| NONE |
| PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
| 1. | The Open Window (Pty) Ltd |
| All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |