Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging

To enter this qualification, students must produce a folio imaging work that demonstrates the application of technical skills and knowledge equivalent to Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 4 or above. 

Skills and knowledge may have been acquired through experience, or through formal study.

Selection criteria

Domestic and International students
To apply for this course you must present a collection of work, which demonstrates an interest in art and design.

If you are under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions apply.

Portfolio compulsory items:
Your folio should include 7-11 pieces of photographic work using the brief's. Include a rationale per image demonstrating your technical skills and knowledge.  These could include but are not limited to: 

• Portrait
• A traditional headshot portrait with controlled studio lighting.
• A candid outdoor portrait capturing natural expressions.
• A creative self-portrait that reveals your personality.
• Landscape
• A wide-angle landscape showcasing a natural vista (mountains, beach, forest, etc.).
• An urban landscape capturing the essence of a cityscape.
• Still Life
• A well-composed arrangement of everyday objects with controlled lighting.
• A macro shot highlighting intricate details of a small subject.
• Architecture
• An interior shot capturing the ambiance of a space.
• An exterior shot emphasising the lines and form of a building.
• Experimental/Artist
• An abstract or experimental photo that demonstrates your creative approach.
• A long-exposure shot that creates unique light trails or motion effects.

Note: Submit either JPEG’s or PDF’s.
You must submit this electronically at time of application or via the Student Portal and MUST contain a zip file of all folio items.

International Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students:

• English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 5.5 (no individual band less than 5.0) or ISLPR 2+ on all skills or other - For a list of all English Language  tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International
• Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement  levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs  to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class:

• portable external hard drive (500MG minimum)
• 35mm DSLR camera or mirrorless camera with two interchangeable lenses (that can be operated manually for shutter speed, aperture and focus) - for the purpose of the qualification the Nikon D850 or D750 or a Canon 650D or 5D meet the minimum standards required
• a colour checker passport for use with the camera
• Black White 35mm Film ISO 400 minimum 24 frames (could be: Kodak Tmax400, Kodak Tri X 400TX, Ilford HP5 plus, Ilford Delta 400)
• 35mm film camera (if you can source one)

Please note: throughout the duration of the program, you may also be required to incur printing costs up to the value of $500.

It is also recommended that you have access to a computer capable of running Adobe Creative Suite software. This software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price.