Module 1: Camera

Welcome to the world of photography! This foundational module is part of the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CUA50925) at PI, an internationally accredited program aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 and regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). As a Diploma student, you will gain not only professional recognition but also access to exclusive resources and personalised guidance from highly specialised tutors.

Module 1 is designed to help you understand how photography began, the various camera formats, lenses, and related equipment mechanisms and tools. You will explore the elements and principles of photography in a structured and analytical way. Understanding how your camera, as well as any other model, works will allow you to express your vision with confidence as you advance in our course. This module lays the groundwork for you to create sophisticated images that inspire and meet both client needs and industry standards.

Our course offers a range of resources and structured content created by qualified professionals who are active in the industry. Creativity, technique, and familiarity with industry requirements are essential elements. However, first, we'll focus on equipment, specifically cameras, lenses, and related settings and features. You’ll gradually start to understand the rationale behind creating thrilling images and begin to articulate your workflow in a professional context.

Why This Module Matters

Every accomplished photographer begins with a solid foundation. Module 1 will guide you through the early days of photography, including how cameras function, the various lens types available, practical lens choices, essential camera tools, and all the available course resources. By integrating theory with practical exercises and real-world examples, you will begin to develop the professional skills and critical thinking necessary for a successful photography career.

• Examine camera formats, lens options and make conscious decisions to achieve the look you intend.
• Analyse settings and control your equipment effectively and direct your creative inspiration.
• Combine theoretical concepts with practical experiments and start expressing yourself through your camera with a professional approach.

As part of the Diploma, this module is just the beginning of a comprehensive 12-module program, featuring assignments, quizzes, portfolio development, and exclusive content designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and professional confidence to excel in the photography industry.

What You’ll Learn

• Course Structure, Authors & Resources
  Get to know the authors and familiarise yourself with the course resources.
• Equipment Essentials
  Analyse camera formats and lens options to understand their attributes and use.
• Camera Mechanisms & Tools
  Learn how cameras function, essential operation tools, and recent innovations.
• Practical Lens Choice
  Understand which lens suits which genres, recommendations and limitations.

What You’ll Do

• Examine & Depict Your Equipment
  List your equipment and maintenance process, and capture a flat lay image of it.
• Post-production Set Up
  Capture an image and describe your editing suite following specific guidelines.
• Camera Settings
  Provide evidence of your camera settings, ensuring key items are included.
• Lens Experiments
  Analyse focal length, test, examine results and describe your findings.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 1, you will:

• Develop a strong foundation in photography principles and equipment.
• Examine all camera formats, their unique attributes and internal mechanisms.
• Learn the strengths of different lenses and how to make effective decisions to achieve the desired look.
• Gain technical knowledge and start approaching photography with a professional eye.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Throughout the course, you’ll be guided by our expert photography tutors. They’re not only accomplished professionals with years of industry experience, but also dedicated mentors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. Whether you need feedback on your image submissions, clarification on a photography concept, or encouragement to push your creative ideas further, your tutors will be there to support you every step of the way. Their goal is to help you build confidence, develop your own photography voice, and ensure you feel inspired and equipped to succeed in the world of photography.