Photographer and Videographer
Training Certificate
Overview
The Photographer and Videographer program has evolved into The Alchemy of Independent Cinema, a bold, immersive master class in visual storytelling. This revitalized program builds on the strong foundation of our original photography and videography training, expanding into the real-world demands of modern content creation, from powerful still imagery to cinematic video production and editing.
Whether you’re capturing moments behind the lens or cutting impactful stories in post, this hands-on course covers the full spectrum of independent media production. You'll shoot in manual mode, master lighting and composition, and edit with industry-standard tools like Adobe Lightroom and Premiere Pro. Beyond technical skills, you’ll also explore the business side of creative work, learning about pricing, licensing, contracts, and how to build a sustainable career in independent filmmaking or content creation.
This 11-month program is designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs as photographers and videographers.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Capture professional-level photos and video in full manual mode
- Use composition, framing, and lighting to enhance storytelling
- Organize, edit, and deliver polished projects using Adobe Creative Cloud
- Build a personal portfolio that reflects your creative and technical growth
- Navigate the business of media production including LLC setup, pricing, and copyright law
- Collaborate on film-style projects from concept to delivery
What’s New?
This program is no longer a basic intro. It’s a full creative lab. You’ll spend 210 classroom hours learning from working professionals, producing a capstone project, and developing the technical and creative muscle needed to thrive as a modern content creator.
Who should take this course?
Aspiring photographers, filmmakers, content creators, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who are ready to stop waiting for permission and start building their own lane.
Required Equipment:
- DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
- Tripod
- External Hard Drive (1TB+)
- Laptop capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud
- Adobe Creative Cloud (Student Version)
- Lightroom Classic and Premiere Pro
Career Paths:
Graduates can pursue work in portrait photography, social media marketing, freelance filmmaking, event production, or entrepreneurial content creation. Additional certification in video editing is a strong next step for further skill development.
How to Enroll
To pursue this certificate, please click on the courses below to see availability. You can register for courses online, and you do not have to apply to the college!
Sample Program Plan and Costs
Students must successfully complete this course.
Class Delivery Methods
View current courses offered via our online course directory.
| On-Campus | Traditional. Classes meet on campus. |
|---|---|
| Virtual | 100% online. Meets with a live instructor and classmates on specific days, at specific times. Uses web conferencing software, like Zoom. |
| Hybrid | Some classes on campus. Some classes online or virtual. |
| Online | 100% online. Due dates for projects and assignments. Self-paced work on your time. |
| CEUs | Class Hours | Course Title | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21.00 | 210 |
Photography and Videography: the Alchemy Of Independent Cinema This course isn't just about pointing cameras and clicking buttons-it's about capturing a vision, cutting it with purpose, and crafting stories that move people. This master class dives deep into the worlds of photography, videography, and editing with a practical, project-based approach. Students will complete 210 credit hours to complete this course. Students will receive a course binder with proven industry methods and produce a portfolio that reflects their progress, technical skill, and creative voice. You'll learn how to shoot in manual mode, master composition and lighting, organize files like a pro, and cut video like a storyteller. You'll also explore the business side of independent media, from LLCs and licensing to client pricing and workflow. Whether you're working solo or in teams, this course will stretch your creative limits and set you up to succeed in the real world. Classroom ID: CEPIC-561 We frequently add new sections. Please contact our Corporate and Continuing Education (CCE) department at 803.732.0432 or cce@midlandstech.edu for more information.
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$6,350.00 |
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Estimated Cost
Tuition Assistance
$6,350.00
Not including fees and equipment |
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What’s next after I complete this program?
Portrait studios, corporate photography, newspapers, magazines, or self-employment options exist.
Pursue a video editing certificate to broaden your skillset.