Photography

Photography as an art and a practice has evolved from a purely technical discipline into one of the most versatile and culturally significant forms of contemporary image-making. A serious photographic education is not simply about operating a camera: it develops a visual intelligence and a creative voice, equipping you to make considered images that communicate ideas, tell stories, document realities and construct meaning. From fine art photography and documentary work to commercial, editorial, fashion and digital practice, the field is broad and the contexts in which photographic skills are applied are diverse.

At Leeds Arts University, this three-year full-time programme aims to develop your own photographic voice and to deepen your understanding of your creative practice and your place in a dynamic and extensive industry. You will be immersed in a world of visual language and image-making, exploring photography's history, its theoretical and critical contexts and its contemporary forms alongside hands-on studio and location practice. Leeds Arts University's specialist focus on creative arts education means your photographic development happens in an environment entirely devoted to making and critical thinking, and the city of Leeds provides a rich cultural setting with a thriving arts scene.

Graduates of photography programmes go on to careers as photographers working in commercial, editorial, documentary, fashion, portrait, architectural and fine art contexts, as well as roles in photo editing, picture research, art direction, visual communications and education. The visual thinking and communication skills you develop are also applicable in film and television production, graphic design, social media content creation and gallery and arts administration. Further study at postgraduate level in photography, fine art, visual culture, photojournalism or curating is an option for those who want to pursue research or specialist professional paths.