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Photojournalism and Documentary Photography BA

Study of how to tell real stories through images - combining photography, journalism, and visual communication to capture moments that inform, inspire, or create change.

YOUR PERSONALITY MIGHT BE:

Visual storyteller

Ethical observer

Adventurous spirit

Truth-seeker

POPULAR CAREER FIELDS

Journalism & Publishing

Media & Broadcasting

Charity & NGO Sector

Film & Television

Is this for you?

Photojournalism and Documentary Photography BA

Is this for you?

WHAT IS IT?

Study of how to tell real stories through images - combining photography, journalism, and visual communication to capture moments that inform, inspire, or create change.

CAREER OPTIONS

CURRENT APPRENTICESHIPS, INTERNSHIPS & WORKPLACES

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Internships
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Uni Open Days
Photojournalist with longrange camera.

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About the Course

  • What Is a Photojournalism and Documentary Photography Degree?


    This degree explores the use of photography to report, document, and communicate real-life events. You’ll learn how to produce powerful visual stories, work ethically with subjects, and understand the social, political, and artistic impact of photography.


    Why Study Photojournalism and Documentary Photography?


    If you’re creative, observant, and passionate about storytelling, this course lets you combine artistry with purpose. It prepares you for work in journalism, media, and visual communication.

  • Most courses cover:


    • Photography techniques and digital imaging

    • Visual storytelling and composition

    • Journalism, research, and ethics

    • Documentary and narrative photography

    • Multimedia and video production

    • Editing, post-production, and visual design

    • History and theory of photojournalism


    Later in your degree, you may specialise in areas such as conflict photography, portraiture, visual activism, or photo essays.

  • Visual Storytelling – capturing powerful images that communicate real events and human experiences.


    Documentary Photography Techniques – producing authentic, research-led photographic work.


    Photo Editing – selecting, sequencing, and processing images for publication.


    Field Research & Investigation – gathering information and context to support visual narratives.


    Ethical Reporting – understanding journalistic ethics, consent, and responsible representation.

  • A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Photography, Art, Media Studies, English, History, or Sociology are beneficial.


    • Explain your passion for photography and storytelling.

    • Mention any experience in photography, media, or art projects.

    • Highlight creativity, curiosity, and attention to detail.

    • Show awareness of photography’s role in truth, culture, and communication.


    You may also need to attend a portfolio review or interview as part of the application process.

    • On Photography by Susan Sontag – A classic exploration of photography’s power and meaning.

    • Magnum Contact Sheets by Kristen Lubben – Behind-the-scenes insight into iconic documentary photography.

    • The Bang-Bang Club by Greg Marinovich and João Silva – The realities of photojournalism in conflict zones.

    • Understanding Photojournalism by Jenny Good and Paul Lowe – A practical guide for modern visual storytellers.

    • Start a photography blog or social media page to share your work.

    • Explore exhibitions and online archives of documentary photography.

    • Volunteer to photograph community events or campaigns.

    • Keep up with photojournalists and media outlets to learn about current techniques and trends.

    • Photojournalist - Photojournalist, press photographer, news photographer, photo reporter

    • Documentary Photographer - Documentary photographer, documentary photojournalist, long-form photographer, social documentary photographer

    • Press Photographer - Press photographer, news photographer, agency photographer, staff photographer

    • Editorial Photographer - Editorial photographer, magazine photographer, features photographer, publication photographer

    • News Photographer - News photographer, breaking news photographer, current affairs photographer, wire service photographer

    • Magazine Photographer - Magazine photographer, editorial photographer, feature photographer, lifestyle photographer

    • Sports Photographer - Sports photographer, action photographer, sports photojournalist, athletic photographer

    • Photo Editor - Photo editor, picture editor, visual editor, photography director

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