Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

BTEC HNC Photography Course in Southampton

Cost£6,500.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 4
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

BTEC HNC Photography Course in Southampton. Classes run at Southampton College, full-time during the day.

This Pearson Edexcel qualification takes one year to complete. You'll develop technical camera skills, visual storytelling, and an understanding of photographic practice across different contexts. The course covers lighting, composition, digital editing, and the business side of photography. You'll build a professional portfolio throughout the year.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Certificate in Photography at Level 4.

Who this course is for

Higher Education learners

Entry requirements

You will require a Level 3 qualification in design, photography, media or other relevant subject (such as an A Level or T Level in a creative subject or a foundation or extended diploma). A strong creative portfolio of work to be presented at interview alongside a strong commitment and interest in photography.

You may be considered without formal qualifications if your skills and experience are of an appropriate standard - this would be assessed at interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop advanced camera techniques, including exposure, focus, and depth of field.
  • You'll explore lighting for studio and location photography.
  • You'll practise digital editing and image post-production.
  • You'll study the history and theory of photography.
  • You'll build a professional portfolio of your own work.
  • You'll learn how to plan and manage photographic projects.
  • You'll gain an understanding of the photography industry and how to work within it.

How you will learn

You'll learn through studio sessions, location shoots, and classroom-based workshops at Southampton College. Assessment is through coursework, project briefs, and portfolio submissions rather than written exams. You'll present your work at interview as part of the entry process, and portfolio development continues throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

A digital SLR camera is essential for this course. Southampton College will confirm any other equipment or materials you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Photographer, working across portrait, commercial, or editorial photography.
  • Photographic assistant, supporting professional photographers on shoots.
  • Studio technician, managing equipment and studio setups.
  • Social media content creator, producing visual content for brands.
  • Photo editor, selecting and editing images for publications or agencies.
  • Freelance photographer, building a client base across events, weddings, or commercial work.

What you could study next

  • Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Diploma in Photography (Level 5), the natural next step to deepen your practice and move closer to degree-level study.
  • BA (Hons) Photography, a full undergraduate degree at a university, building on your HNC for a career in fine art or commercial photography.
  • BA (Hons) Visual Communication or Graphic Design, if you want to broaden into related creative fields.
Apply on shcg.ac.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at Southampton College

More courses near you