9 Month PHOTOGRAPHIC CAREER COURSE

Embark on a transformative 9 month photographic journey designed to elevate your passion for photography into a professional career. This comprehensive course is meticulously crafted to guide aspiring photographers through every essential aspect of the art and business of photography. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, our step-by-step approach ensures that you gain a deep understanding of camera techniques, creative composition, and post-processing skill

2025 Course Start date: Monday 3rd March 2025

Classes run Monday, Wednesday and Friday

10:00am – 12:30pm

The foundation for your photographic career


Is your goal to become a full-time photographer? Our GETPIX Photography 9 month career course is the most friendly, comprehensive, easy to learn and truly hands-on practical course. Train with Paula Rutherford (owner and photographer), other instructors and photographic experts, using our “works-every-time” curriculum.

About The Course:

Become a photographer and pursue your creative passion! Enter the market with a first class photographic portfolio! A career in photography is a versatile medium for vast applications. Students attend classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10:00 – 12:30. Every aspect that is required in today’s fast market is covered, understood and put into practice.


On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Confidently enter into the market place
  • Function as a freelance photographer
  • Interpret a photographic brief within different genres of photography
  • Creatively edit images having mastered Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
  • Be familiar with the market pricing
  • Supply your detailed quotes using your designed company invoice
  • Earn money with your skill set
  • Resourcefully deliver a portfolio of work of the highest standard

Course Fee - R125 000

Deposit: R40 000

Monthly Payment : R10 625  (over 8 months)

Who the course is for:

This course is tailored for individuals passionate about pursuing photography as a career. With 22 modules, students will gain comprehensive theoretical and practical training to confidently enter the professional photography market.


Modules:

Our 9 month course covers a diverse range of modules designed to equip aspiring photographers with essential skills for their career journey. From foundational topics like Beginners covering all aspects of your camera buttons and dials to advanced techniques. Students will master editing their images with Lightroom and Photoshop, and delve into specialized areas such as Architecture, Studio, Wildlife, Wedding, Street, Corporate and Portraiture.


Students will learn how to build their brand through effective marketing strategies on social media and in the How to Market your Business module.


Each module is crafted to provide hands-on experience and industry insights, ensuring comprehensive preparation for the professional photography landscape. Contact us for the full list of modules included in the course.

Advanced Modules:

In addition to our core curriculum, we offer advanced add-on modules at an additional fee that allow students to further specialize and enhance their skills in specific areas of interest.


These advanced modules include: Advanced Lighting Techniques, Fine Art Photography, Fashion Photography, Automotive Photography, Videography and Website Design.


Each module is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical experience, equipping our students with the expertise needed to excel in their chosen niche within the photography industry. Contact us to learn more about our advanced module offerings and how they can complement your professional development as a photographer.

Required Equipment          

  • DSLR camera / Mirrorless Camera (inter changeable lenses)
  • 18 – 55mm Lens (or equivalent)
  • 55 – 200mm Lens (or equivalent)
  • External Flash
  • Tripod
  • Laptop i5 or newer with 16gb RAM

Required Software

During the Course you will be working on the following software packages:

  • Adobe Photoshop CC
  • Adobe Lightroom CC


You are required to have the software loaded and working on your laptop before course commencement. Trial versions are not recommended as you will be working on the software for the duration of the course. It is advisable to have the latest software as all course notes are based on the most recent software available. The software is available to purchase on the Adobe Creative Cloud.

Guidance at every click

Feel safe and supported throughout your time with us. We have taught more than 1700 students, teaching short and career courses. Our classes are small - a maximum of 5 students. You have so much time to ask all your questions and concerns. No question is ever silly- other students will learn from your initiative to have asked a question. When you need help, we are there- always.

 

PSSSSST……

At GETPIX, we embrace diversity by offering courses for everyone, including those who faced challenges in high school. Did you know that our brains are all wired in different ways?  If you struggled to learn, due to ADHD, Dyslexia etc. please do not worry. If photography is your passion, we teach everyone.



We believe in providing an inclusive and supportive educational environment tailored to individual learning needs.

 

How do I apply?

First and foremost - We want to get to know who you are and what you want to achieve in your life. We want to know your parents. While it is important to respect privacy and boundaries, maintaining open lines of communication with parents can contribute significantly to your overall well-being and academic success.

 

We also want to explain how we operate and for you to understand as well, how GETPIX teaches.

 

Give us a call: 072 110 2873 or email paula@getpix.co.za.


Thereafter, we shall be in touch with you to arrange a meet-up for a coffee and chat (Who can discuss your future without coffee?). We are in no rush, so come in comfy clothes and if you want to meet our dog (he makes a great model in studio) - feel free to ask.  Please bring your parents, family, friends and anyone who cares for you and your future. I can feel you smiling already!


Accreditation/Certificate/Proof in Print

GETPIX Photography opened in 2007. That is 16 years of, in excess of, 1700 super students.

 

We do not form part of any SETA compliance and we do not offer any financial bursary. At the end of your course, you will have created, and have printed, a legacy of your images, taken during your course, across all modules. This is in the form of a hard cover A4, photographic book. This is a testament to the quality of your work across multiple genres of photography and what you can offer your future clientele.

 

Why do you do this? A certificate (which you obviously will receive on completion of all modules) is just that, a certificate. When your clients ask for your photographic services- what will they always ask? To see your portfolio of your images. They want to ensure that you have the practical experience. It just makes sense. Pop in, to see some of our past students’ portfolios.


STUDENT REVIEWS

Don’t just take our word for it - Hear from some of our amazing students

HANDS DOWN ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING YEARS OF MY LIFE!

 

It was such a warm and lovely environment, I made friends for a lifetime this year. I've learnt so much. The laughs and fun were endless. I loved the fact that you are taken and accepted the way you come ‘vibe that was given off by everyone this year.  I thoroughly enjoyed my 2018.  I am grateful for everyone who made my experience at Getpix a memorable one.


Sabeehah
Past Student

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all the help, guidance and encouragement that you gave Celine this year enabling her to achieve the awards that were presented to her. She was so excited about College this year and had many memorable moments whilst there, she learnt a great deal about photography and is now equipped with the necessary skills to earn a living doing what she likes.

Warren Trollope
Parent Review

I sincerely appreciate all the support you have given all your students and Nkateko in particular. You were awesome and have definitely left an indelible mark in the Nkateko’s mind and ours. Your professionalism has stood up and at no point did I feel you were giving up on your students and that is greatly appreciated. Remember you play a critical community development role and I want to tell you that you have the right attitude and all the requisite credentials to execute on your calling.

Jabu
PARENT REVIEW

My year at Getpix was amazing. I learnt so much and gained so much.

 The environment was always exciting, creative and upbeat. I know I will always be where I am because of Getpix. Have fun for the years ahead.

 

Samantha
Past student

I just completed my 9 month course at Getpix Photography, and it was such an amazing experience! Paula was so helpful and has such a positive attitude! The course was surely a lot of hard work, but it really paid off as I now have a beautiful portfolio book with pictures I'm proud to say are mine. I got to travel to places and get the most wonderful pictures ever, I will never forget these amazing memories!! My favorite modules were wildlife, architecture, night photography and studio.

Priyasha Dhanashwarlall
Past Student

This year has been a fantastic year for me, being able to study what I love in an exciting, fun, happy and friendly environment. Not only has Getpix taught me a lot about photography but has taught me a lot about myself and has allowed me to experience new things and gave me so many opportunities. Thank you to the staff at Getpix for always greeting me with a smile and friendliness each day. Every morning has been exciting for me getting out of bed. Knowing it was going to be a great day doing and learning about something I love with friends that share the same passion, love and understanding for and about photography as I do.  This year I've made many new friends that have built me as a photographer and person. Thank you for everyone that made this year an awesome one and to my parents for making this year possible for me. I wish all my friends from this year all the best for the future. Make things happen and keep shooting people.

Megan Bainton
Past Student

How do you describe a year like the one I've had? It was a year filled with excitement, things to learn, people to meet, and places to be explored. The past year, I've learned to look at things differently. I've learned to look at ordinary things and to see the extraordinary in it. I met interesting new people and made new friends. It was a busy, fun filled year, but I regret nothing. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this incredible year. Today I am a confident young photographer who knows my strengths and weaknesses.

Sarize Griessel
Past Student

My first day started not sure if I could do this. Then three months down the line, my knowledge had astounded even me of what I learnt from our dedicated teachers. Outings planned to new adventures. It's seen through my camera lens experiencing learning curves and the hard work to get to know different skills I never knew were possible. The ability to deal with the streets for that perfect shot or the gentleness needed for a baby was all showed by the patience of the teachers. Finally, I am at the end of my year. Wow, what a lot of memories I have made with the Great team at Getpix.

Aneska Vermaak
Past Student

My year at Getpix was the most exciting year I have had so far. I have enjoyed every module and outing we did. Getpix has given me a wide perspective of what photography is all about as students to Getpix. We all came closer to each other and had so much fun. Our photographic tour to Clarence was the most amazing time we all had. Everyone bonded, made jokes and laughed the whole trip. I learned so much. Throughout the year and really enjoyed the social days.

Jason Nel
Past Student

My year at Getpix has been fun. The atmosphere has always been good. With happy, high spirited students and lecturers, Getpix has always been very helpful with advice. I feel I have come a long way from where I started to where I am now. Getpix has guided me to further develop a passion of mine. By extending my knowledge and helping me unlock more of my creativity.

Roland Woon
Past Student

This year has been an mazing experience as I got the opportunity to study my passion that has been passed down from my grandpa. I had a year to learn the fundamentals of my chosen career. Throughout this year, I have met many wonderful people and built beautiful friendships with laughs and memories along the way that I will cherish forever with people that share the same passion. Along the way I have learned that many things from theory to practical to experience, everything in between that I will carry with me throughout my photographic journey and path.

Kirtsy-Lyn Venter
Past Student

My year at Getpix was a very interesting year. I have met wonderful people and have learnt so much. I enjoyed going out on all the outings and also Clarence it was a year to remember.

Gail Hammerton
Past Student

 

FAQ

 

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the course?

No formal prerequisites are required. A passion for photography and a willingness to learn are essential.

How will this course help me build my photography career?

The course provides not only technical skills and creative insights but also essential business knowledge, such as how to market your photography, build a strong brand, and effectively use social media to attract clients and grow your business.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

Additional costs may include purchasing recommended equipment, software, and any travel expenses for certain on location outings.

What can I expect upon completion of the course?

Upon completion, you will have a strong portfolio of work, a deep understanding of photography techniques and business strategies, and the confidence to pursue a career in photography. A certificate of completion will also be awarded to showcase your achievement.

What equipment do I need for the course?

You will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera, lenses, a tripod, a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM, Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Photoshop software. Additional accessories like external flashes, reflectors, and a light meter are recommended but not mandatory.

How are the classes conducted?

Classes are held 3 times a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) from 10:00 - 12:30. The course includes practical sessions, theoretical lessons, and regular assignments to ensure hands-on learning and application.

READY TO ELEVATE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS? ENROLL TODAY!


Thank you for your interest in our 9 month Photographic Career Course! Please fill in the form to begin your journey towards becoming a professional photographer. Our team will contact you with the next steps. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.


We look forward to welcoming you to the GETPIX Photographic School community!