Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT WILL I RECEIVE?
Your course will include four modules, four assignments, two summaries, marking of assignments, research information and handouts, plus a colour animal photographic reference book, written by your course designer, A Way with Dogs or A Way with Horses, (depending on your preference) along with support from your tutor during this learning experience.

WHAT TYPE OF CAMERA DO I NEED?
Students are using a variety of cameras: This Course is designed to give you an introduction to animal photography and help you become a practising photographer whether you have a digital, digital SLR or film camera. By carrying out practical assignments, research, and written assignments you will gain a basic understanding of your camera and settings to use for the different styles of photography.

WHAT LEVEL IS THE COURSE SET AT AND HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE DO I NEED IN PHOTOGRAPHY?
The modules cover both technical and practical photographic skills. This course is designed in a way, whatever level, to enhance your skills when photographing animals, whether you want to use advanced camera settings or simply set your camera on automatic – however, you have the option to learn the benefits of understanding the more technical aspects. This course is an introduction to photography and you will be shown and advised on how to advance in your photography.

CAN YOU GIVE ME AN EXAMPLE OF CONTENT?
Here is an example of what you might expect to cover in a module:

Animal Sports & Action Photography - Module Three

This module covers the following:

Sporting events
Action shots
Safety during the photo shoot
Making the most of the event
How to capture that great moment
Making money from your images
Getting sporting images published

By carrying out a practical assignment, research and a written assignment you will gain an insight and deeper understanding of what is involved in producing quality action images of animals.

There are ‘self assignments’ and advice throughout the modules. Your tutor will answer your questions (on the bottom of your assignment there is a space for queries you may have) and offer suggestions relating to animal photography. It is our goal for you to become a competent photographer in this area. You can refer to your reference book for advice (this book is included in the price of the course).

IS THERE A TIME LIMIT?

You can carry out your assignments at your own pace. Students are finding this course fits in well with busy lifestyles and other commitments.

I’M KEEN, I WANT TO GET STARTED, HOW AND WHEN CAN I ENROL?

We are currently taking enrolments. You can start at any time that suits you. You can apply for the course online here or by emailing our office trudy@nicholsonphotography.co.nz. You can pay by cheque or direct credit into our bank account.

We need to know whether you would like A Way with Dogs or A Way with Horses included in your pack and your postal address (not a P.O. BOX) to courier your ‘Learning Pack’ to.

ARE YOU NZQA REGISTERED AND CAN I APPLY FOR A WINZ OR STUDENT LOAN?

No, we do not come under the above criteria. Nicholson Photography is not registered as a Private Training Establishment with New Zealand Qualifications Authority. In some instances we will allow a student to make a deposit and come to a payment agreement. We are open to discussion on such matters.

WILL I COME OUT WITH A QUALIFICATION AND/OR HOW WILL I BENEFIT FROM THE COURSE?

You will be awarded a certificate on successful completion of your course. This course may be able to be used as recognized prior learning for a NZQA course.
You will be shown the steps required to start your career in photography: The majority of professional photographers are self- employed. Motivation is a key factor to becoming a photographer.

Focus on Animals (Introductory) Correspondence Course is an introduction to photographing animals and the focus is on establishing a good basis on which to expand your photographic skills whether you want to enjoy photography as a hobby or make a career out of it.

The course will boost your confidence and your photography skills will improve on this course!