Fashion Photography BA(Hons)
On this course you'll develop your voice as a fashion photographer to help springboard you into industry. You’ll learn to become a networked fashion photographer, working collaboratively with students from across the Fashion & Textiles Institute.
Key details
| Location | Penryn Campus |
| Course Duration | 3 years |
| Attendance | Full-time |
| UCAS code | W641 |
| Contact | 01326 254350 |
Apply
Introduction
At Falmouth, you’ll explore the unconventional by learning how to create captivating photography, moving image and alternative photographic processes, with access to eight studios, dark rooms, post-production studios and an incredibly well-equipped rental house.
You will:
- Pitch your projects to industry experts and work on live briefs set by a top selection of international clients.
- Attend guest lectures and have access to world leading practitioners such as Shonagh Marshall, Matthew Holroyd (Baron Magazine), Joseph Delaney (Nowness) and Derek Ridgers.
- Have the opportunity to work with leading names in fashion like Vogue, Elle, Ted Baker, Wonderland, ShowStudio and Harper’s Bazaar.
What our students do
Institute of Photography Publishes Zine Celebrating Student Work
Mayn Creative, our in-house photo...
Fashion Photography Student Shoots Talent of Tomorrow Campaign
Nicholas Kristiansen, third-year BA(Hons)...
Fashion Photography Student Commissioned by VICE’s i-D Magazine
Being commissioned by a major publication is an unforgettable accomplishment; not only does it...
Catwalk Calling for Fashion Student
Shooting catwalk models at top-end shows is the dream for many seeking to enter the fashion...
What our graduates do
Our graduates have got their foot in the door at companies like Adidas, Vivienne Westwood, Big Sky Studios, River Island, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Ted Baker, DC, Toni & Guy, Paul Smith, i-D, TANK, Christopher Kane and 1883 Magazine.
Award-Winning Fashion Photography Graduate Continues to Rise
From the age of fourteen, Sophie Webster, Fashion Photography graduate, knew she wanted to tell stories through pictures.
Course details
What you'll learn
You’ll combine creativity with technology, developing your skills, confidence and imagination. Working across film, photography and animation, you’ll explore studio and location practices, high-end retouching, specialist editing techniques and fashion film.
From catwalks to street style, we’ll cover all areas of fashion. You’ll learn about advertising campaigns, produce fashion photographs for clients and our gallery, and create web-based work, fashion fanzines and designer look-books.
You’ll get a feel for industry life by working as a fashion photographer in a team, and exploring the industry’s analytical, creative and technical aspects both in the studio and on location. Learning the history and theories behind the industry, you’ll explore the fashion styles of historical subcultures, develop high-end retouching techniques, and learn how iconic fashion image makers use handmade publications to narrate powerful stories.
Modules
Subcultures and Styles
Handbook to Industry
The Body and Ethics
The Edit
By studying experimental fashion, film, animation and photo manipulation, you’ll explore the impact of new media on the fashion communication industry. You’ll also have the chance to build your critical understanding of contemporary theory and research methodologies. And by discussing and experimenting, you’ll explore light, colour, tone, composition and form, as well as histories and theories, as you create a professional portfolio.
Real-world experience comes from live project collaborations with industry brands and clients, a live brief exploring fashion filmmaking, photography or animation, and an optional study trip to an international fashion centre. You’ll also have the chance to build your professional network and take on an overseas placement.
Modules
Fashion Films
Advancing Professional Skill-Sets
Fashion Image
Advancing Theories for Practice
You’ll have the chance to collaborate with internationally renowned names like Baron Magazine, Nowness and Labrum. You’ll work with clients on professional briefs, and build networks and relationships to help you launch your career.
We’ll encourage you to look into publishing your work as you define and complete a final major project, and help you develop a professional identity by exploring critical reflection and self-awareness.
Finally, you’ll get the chance to attend a series of masterclasses run by leading practitioners like Shonagh Marshall, Derek Ridgers, Hannah Moon, Steffi Klenz and Melinda Gibson.
Modules
The Client Brief
Research into Practice
Final Major Project
The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.
From module information to course aims and assessment criteria, discover the full course details
How you'll learn
You’ll take on live client editorial and advertising briefs with accompanying lectures and workshops. The course is centred around regular tutorials, lectures, seminars and technical workshops in the studio and on location. There’ll be opportunities to attend fashion weeks and take study trips to world-renowned fashion centres.
You’ll also have a high level of contact time with your staff and tutors, who’ll encourage you to gain a diverse and global understanding of the industry through international placements.
How you'll spend your time
Year | Timetabled teaching and learning activity | Guided independent study |
1 | 35% | 65% |
2 | 30% | 70% |
3 | 25% | 75% |
How you'll be assessed
Year | Written exams | Practical exams | Coursework |
1 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
2 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
3 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
The above percentages relate to 2019/2020 data.
Assessment methods
- Continuous assessment of visual, verbal and written assignments.
- Portfolio submissions, support work and online presence.
- Final-year portfolio.
Staff
The team is made up of award-winning educators and leading creatives in their fields, like photographers Jonathan Simms (Vogue Homme, Glamour, GQ), Donald Christie (I.D, Dazed, The Face), Fashion Director Philip Scurrah (Wallpaper, Russh, Selfridges) and Eloise Parry (Dazed, Helmut Lang, Topshop).
Jonathan Simms
Jonathan Simms is the Course Leader for BA(Hons) Fashion Photography at Falmouth University...
Donald Christie
Donald’s iconic photography career is instrumental in defining the anti-...
Philip Scurrah
Philip Scurrah is Senior Lecturer for BA(Hons) Fashion photography. Philip's fashion...
Eloise Parry
Eloise Parry is a British photographer born in Middlesbrough. She has shot for magazines such as...
James Fisher
I joined Falmouth University in 2014 as a dedicated senior technician in the fashion photography...
Dave Mann
I have worked as a professional photographer and photography educator for many...
Facilities
- Eight large, fully equipped professional studios - frequently in demand from external professionals outside of term time.
- Fully colour-managed digital suites with specialist print processing facilities.
- Specialist software training with Adobe Creative Suite.
- Photography store containing an extensive range of industry-standard equipment available for loan from 9am-9pm, 7 days a week during term time.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
Ready to join us? If you're applying through UCAS Apply and Track, you'll need to reference the university and course codes below.
- University code: F33
- Course code: W641
Applying as an international student?
International students can apply for a course through UCAS, via an agent or directly with the university. For more information about how to apply as an international student, visit our International applications page.
We consider all applications on their own individual merit and potential. We invite all applicants to an interview day or audition to give them the opportunity to demonstrate this along with what inspires and motivates them in their field. Applicants will also be able to show their portfolio or give a performance depending on the course. We welcome applications from all subject backgrounds, whether you’ve specialised in STEM, the arts or humanities.
As a guide our typical offer at undergraduate level is 104 – 120 UCAS Tariff points, primarily from Level 3 qualifications such as but not limited to A-levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma or a Foundation Diploma.
For applicants whose first language is English we require you to have or be working towards GCSE English Language Grade 4 (C), or equivalent.
If English is not your first language you will need to meet the same standard, which is equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.0 overall score, with at least 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We accept a range of in country equivalencies and approved tests.
If you need a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK, you’ll need to take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). You can read our English Language Requirements for more information.
UK/EU applications: 15 January 2020 (for equal consideration)
Late applications will be considered if there are places available.
International fee payers can apply throughout the year. But we recommend applying as early as possible, to make time for visa and travel arrangements.
Interview information & application advice
How to Apply
Get application information including personal statement advice, interview tips and what to include in your portfolio.
Portfolio Advice
What is a portfolio and how do you make one? Read our guide.
Personal Statement Guide
How do you write a personal statement and what should you include? Read our advice.
Interview Information: Fashion Photography BA(Hons)
Find out what to expect from your Fashion Photography interview.
After You Apply
Find out what happens after you apply to Falmouth and what you'll need to do.
What we're looking for
We want someone who:
- Shows creative flair and technical ability.
- Thinks conceptually.
- Has photographic communication skills.
- Can experiment.
- Has fashion knowledge.
Fees, costs & funding
Tuition fees 2020-21
£9,250 - full-time UK/EU
£16,000 - full-time international
Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.
Typical course costs
- £300-£600 - Recurring annual costs
- £200-£300 - One-off costs for the course duration (compulsory trips, final portfolios or shows, etc)
- £1,750 - Optional study visits and placements for the course duration
If you need to bring equipment or materials with you, these will be outlined in your Welcome Letter.
The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs
Funding
For information about funding available, please visit our undergraduate funding page
Ask a student
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From course details, our facilities and the local area to the social scene and settling in, our students are ready and available to answer any questions you might have. Simply set up your account, send them a question and they'll get back to you within 24 hours.