From the history of photography to advanced skills in Adobe Photoshop CC, the Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging gives you the technical skills and business acumen you need to successfully establish or enhance your career in photography.
Please note that on the 15th April 2021, this course was superseded and replaced by CUA41120 - Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging. You can still enrol, however at the moment, the new course is not yet available. Open Colleges will communicate with you in due course once the new course is available.
Learn about the history and various genres of photography.
Build a marketable portfolio of work throughout the course.
Become familiar with pre-production, production and post-production workflow.
Learn how to respond to a client’s brief.
Master colour management and lighting effects and develop advanced skills in Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Photoshop CC.
Gain an understanding of sound and current business practices relevant to the photography industry.
You will graduate from the course with a digital portfolio of work to present to prospective employers and clients
The course content is current and relevant, and is both written and approved by industry experts
The Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging offers all the knowledge you need to start working in the industry, including both technical and creative aspects to help you develop your practical photography skills, as well as your own unique style
If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.
| Course number | E1334 |
| Qualification name | CUA41115 Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging |
| Course duration | Maximum 18 months |
| Delivery Method | Online |
| Recognition | Nationally Recognised  |
| Assessments | Portfolio of evidence, Projects, Short-answer questions, Video, Written reports |
| Awarded by | Open Colleges Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90796) |
There are no formal education entry requirements for this course.
You will need to be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18 your enrolment form will need to be signed by a parent or guardian or require guardian/parental consent.
This course involves reading and undertaking a range of written assessments, as well as engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 10 level.
If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 10 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:
Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided to you by Open Colleges.
All users:
Windows users:
Mac OS users:
You will need access to:
To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:
It is essential that you have access to a specific place where you undertake your assessment activities. You will also require a Digital SLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls, raw file format, HD video capture and interchangeable lenses.
This course requires the use of industry software. You will need to arrange a subscription at your own cost to the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography including Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Photoshop CC. Student subscriptions are available at a reduced price. Refer to the Adobe website.
Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.
Once you are enrolled in this course, you will receive access to the first Module, which contains the first set of units for the course. When you have successfully completed those units, you'll be given access to the next Module.
Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.
You will research a photographer and genre of your choice to spark your creativity.
| CUARES403 | Research history and theory to inform own arts practice |
In this module you’ll shoot still life images and learn about lighting, colour and design. You’ll photograph a subject of your choice e.g. a bowl of fruit, dishes, technology (phone/headphones), instruments. You’ll shoot indoors in controlled lighting like you would on a product photography shoot.
| CUAACD401 | Integrate colour theory and design processes |
| CUAPHI402 | Apply photo imaging lighting techniques |
| CUAPHI403 | Enhance, manipulate and output photo images |
This module will teach all about how the industry works! Learn how other photographers work and their place within the industry.
| CUAPHI301 | Develop and apply photo imaging industry knowledge |
| BSBWHS201 | Contribute to health and safety of self and others |
This module concentrates on commercial photography - in particular, portraits and fashion.
| CUAPHI505 | Produce commercial photo images |
| CUADIG405 | Produce innovative digital images |
| SIRRMER516 | Style merchandise for photography |
You’ll learn about finishing images by adjusting and exporting them for various delivery requirements, platforms and sizes. You’ll also learn about the best ways to back-up and protect your work.
| CUAPHI303 | Process photo images to work-print and file stage |
| CUAPPR403 | Store and maintain finished creative work |
In this module you will learn how to work and succeed in the photography business – how to start working with clients, how to photograph for others and respond to a design brief, as well as how to develop contracts, work out costing, and receive payment.
| BSBDES402 | Interpret and respond to a design brief |
| CUAPHI401 | Capture images in response to a brief |
You’ll learn how to get work and how to get paid! This module teaches you how to provide freelancing services legally and gives you an understanding of tax invoices, and how to build your business. You’ll learn about invoicing, creating an ABN, creating a business name and copyright. By the end of the course you will have a digital portfolio for promotional purposes. You may choose to specialise in one genre or include shots captured during the course covering a variety of genres.
| CUAIND402 | Provide freelance services |
| CUAPPR501 | Realise a body of creative work |
Pay in Full
You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo
You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan. When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Payment Plan
You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.
BPAY®
With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more.
BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.
.png)
Melissa is a photographer, small business owner and Creative Content Producer. With over 30+ years in the photography industry, she has won many awards for her work including South Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year (2009) and South Australian Family Photographer of the Year (2010). She is known for portraits that capture the personality and beauty of her subjects.
Melissa has served on the industry related boards and judged photography competitions in Australia and overseas, as well speaking at Stat and National Photography events.
Melissa strongly believes that photography is important in capturing moments and history. With over 15 years’ experience in education and content development focusing in areas such as Information technology, Multimedia, Photography, and Graphic Design.
Melissa holds a Diploma in Information technology and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Course at a Glance
Online
Flexible payment options available
Nationally recognised
Course at a Glance
Online
Flexible payment options available
Nationally recognised
From the history of photography to advanced skills in Adobe Photoshop CC, the Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging gives you the technical skills and business acumen you need to successfully establish or enhance your career in photography.
Please note that on the 15th April 2021, this course was superseded and replaced by CUA41120 - Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging. You can still enrol, however at the moment, the new course is not yet available. Open Colleges will communicate with you in due course once the new course is available.
Learn about the history and various genres of photography.
Build a marketable portfolio of work throughout the course.
Become familiar with pre-production, production and post-production workflow.
Learn how to respond to a client’s brief.
Master colour management and lighting effects and develop advanced skills in Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Photoshop CC.
Gain an understanding of sound and current business practices relevant to the photography industry.
You will graduate from the course with a digital portfolio of work to present to prospective employers and clients
The course content is current and relevant, and is both written and approved by industry experts
The Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging offers all the knowledge you need to start working in the industry, including both technical and creative aspects to help you develop your practical photography skills, as well as your own unique style
If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.
| Course number | E1334 |
| Qualification name | CUA41115 Certificate IV in Photography and Photo Imaging |
| Course duration | Maximum 18 months |
| Delivery Method | Online |
| Recognition | Nationally Recognised |
| Assessments | Portfolio of evidence, Projects, Short-answer questions, Video, Written reports |
| Awarded by | Open Colleges Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90796) |
There are no formal education entry requirements for this course.
You will need to be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18 your enrolment form will need to be signed by a parent or guardian or require guardian/parental consent.
This course involves reading and undertaking a range of written assessments, as well as engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 10 level.
If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 10 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:
Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided to you by Open Colleges.
All users:
Windows users:
Mac OS users:
You will need access to:
To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:
It is essential that you have access to a specific place where you undertake your assessment activities. You will also require a Digital SLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls, raw file format, HD video capture and interchangeable lenses.
This course requires the use of industry software. You will need to arrange a subscription at your own cost to the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography including Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Photoshop CC. Student subscriptions are available at a reduced price. Refer to the Adobe website.
Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.
Once you are enrolled in this course, you will receive access to the first Module, which contains the first set of units for the course. When you have successfully completed those units, you'll be given access to the next Module.
Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.
You will research a photographer and genre of your choice to spark your creativity.
| CUARES403 | Research history and theory to inform own arts practice |
In this module you’ll shoot still life images and learn about lighting, colour and design. You’ll photograph a subject of your choice e.g. a bowl of fruit, dishes, technology (phone/headphones), instruments. You’ll shoot indoors in controlled lighting like you would on a product photography shoot.
| CUAACD401 | Integrate colour theory and design processes |
| CUAPHI402 | Apply photo imaging lighting techniques |
| CUAPHI403 | Enhance, manipulate and output photo images |
This module will teach all about how the industry works! Learn how other photographers work and their place within the industry.
| CUAPHI301 | Develop and apply photo imaging industry knowledge |
| BSBWHS201 | Contribute to health and safety of self and others |
This module concentrates on commercial photography - in particular, portraits and fashion.
| CUAPHI505 | Produce commercial photo images |
| CUADIG405 | Produce innovative digital images |
| SIRRMER516 | Style merchandise for photography |
You’ll learn about finishing images by adjusting and exporting them for various delivery requirements, platforms and sizes. You’ll also learn about the best ways to back-up and protect your work.
| CUAPHI303 | Process photo images to work-print and file stage |
| CUAPPR403 | Store and maintain finished creative work |
In this module you will learn how to work and succeed in the photography business – how to start working with clients, how to photograph for others and respond to a design brief, as well as how to develop contracts, work out costing, and receive payment.
| BSBDES402 | Interpret and respond to a design brief |
| CUAPHI401 | Capture images in response to a brief |
You’ll learn how to get work and how to get paid! This module teaches you how to provide freelancing services legally and gives you an understanding of tax invoices, and how to build your business. You’ll learn about invoicing, creating an ABN, creating a business name and copyright. By the end of the course you will have a digital portfolio for promotional purposes. You may choose to specialise in one genre or include shots captured during the course covering a variety of genres.
| CUAIND402 | Provide freelance services |
| CUAPPR501 | Realise a body of creative work |
Pay in Full
You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo
You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan. When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Payment Plan
You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.
BPAY®
With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more.
BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.
Melissa is a photographer, small business owner and Creative Content Producer. With over 30+ years in the photography industry, she has won many awards for her work including South Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year (2009) and South Australian Family Photographer of the Year (2010). She is known for portraits that capture the personality and beauty of her subjects.
Melissa has served on the industry related boards and judged photography competitions in Australia and overseas, as well speaking at Stat and National Photography events.
Melissa strongly believes that photography is important in capturing moments and history. With over 15 years’ experience in education and content development focusing in areas such as Information technology, Multimedia, Photography, and Graphic Design.
Melissa holds a Diploma in Information technology and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
Open Colleges Pty Ltd ABN 61 000 011 692 Provider Number 90796 | Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd ABN 82 003 899 527 Provider Number 90197 | YourLife Health & Learning Inc t/a Open Colleges School of Health ABN 39 742 730 429 RTO 40049 CRICOS Provider 03733E
© Open Colleges 2020-2026. Except as permitted by the applicable copyright law, you may not reproduce or communicate any content from this website, including any files downloadable from this website, without the permission of Open Colleges.
