This qualification responds to the evolving landscape of modern photography, where quality
standards and required competencies continue to shift. As the industry moves increasingly toward
genre-pooling rather than strict specialisation, photographers must be multi-skilled to remain
competitive across various media sectors. In South Africa, the changing media value chain where
publishing houses often buy images from agencies rather than employing full-time photographers—
means photographers must learn to market themselves, collaborate, freelance, and manage their
work as independent professionals. This qualification equips students with the essential technical
and creative skills needed to thrive in this dynamic environment.
