Professional Diploma in Creative and Commercial Photography

This module is designed for those with prior experience of photography, who may not yet be fully confident shooting in manual mode. Learners will build on their existing knowledge by engaging in a more focused and fast-paced exploration of camera operations, creative control, and troubleshooting in challenging lighting situations. Through practical tasks and reflective visual journaling, they’ll improve technical skills while developing more intentional shooting habits. A focus on problem-solving and adapting settings in real-world conditions will help learners become more consistent image-makers. 

This module guides learners through creating a personal photo project with a focus on visual storytelling. Learners build on existing experience by exploring composition, narrative, and sequencing to communicate ideas clearly and creatively. They will apply an individual approach while working on real-world subjects, from impactful photojournalism and candid reportage to thoughtful editorial stories. Learners will also practise shooting in dynamic environments such as events, public spaces, and community settings. The module explores creative ways to present work, including sequencing, zines, handmade books, and other outputs to support engaging storytelling. 

This module covers the technical and creative skills needed to produce strong, engaging portraits. Learners will work with both natural and studio lighting setups, apply camera settings and equipment for portraiture, and demonstrate confidence in directing and working with people. The module also includes workflow and introductory retouching to produce polished, professional results. 

This module explores how photographs tell stories and communicate ideas. Learners will strengthen their visual literacy by analysing composition, context, and visual cues. Through image discussion and creative exercises, they will interpret the meaning in photographs and explore how images reflect personal style and cultural narratives. 

This module focuses on practical studio and location lighting, working on client-style briefs for branding, fashion, or promotional use. Create a cohesive body of commercial photography suitable for real-world use. Learners will apply creative direction and technical execution while also creating digital content such as behind-the-scenes stills or short-form videos for online platforms. 

This module introduces practical AI tools and time-saving editing techniques. Learners will gain hands-on experience with features such as image selection, enhancement, and background removal using smart software. The module also explores ethical issues, authenticity, and the evolving role of AI in photography. 

In this module, learners will complete a self-directed photographic project aligned with their creative or professional goals. With tutor support and group critique, they will plan, shoot, refine, and present a resolved body of work. 

This module showcases the learner’s strongest work to date in a professional portfolio. Learners will prepare their work for print, screen, and exhibition while building confidence in presenting themselves and their visual practice.

Sinéad Murphy is an accomplished photographer and educator who has been delivering photography modules at Griffith College since 2004. With a strong background in editorial and commercial photography, Sinéad has been commissioned for work by The Independent on Sunday (UK) and The Guardian. Her photography has also appeared in the British Journal of Photography, The Irish Independent, The Irish Examiner. 

Her portraits of comedians, actors, musicians, and other creatives are often commissioned for press, posters, and platforms such as Ticketmaster, festival listings, and show campaigns. Her work has been exhibited nationally in Dublin and internationally in London and Brighton. Sinéad served as a panel member and picture editor for the book The Gathering – Reflections on Ireland and led the image editing team for Today FM’s US2 book. 

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Robert Ellis is an Irish photographer and lecturer with an MFA in Photography from the University of Ulster and over 15 years of experience in documentary, fine art and conceptual photography. His work has been exhibited internationally, including solo shows in London, Dublin, Belfast, and the United States. In 2024, he exhibited in Changing States: Ireland in the 21st Century at Haus am Kleistpark, Berlin, the largest group exhibition of Irish photography presented outside of Ireland, and in Modern Nature at Cairde Arts Festival, Sligo. He was selected for Plat(t)form at Fotomuseum Winterthur (2014) and his practice has been profiled by The British Journal of Photography and This is Paper.

Robert’s teaching is student-centred and collaborative, encouraging open dialogue, autonomy, and critical thinking. He is passionate about inspiring a lifelong curiosity and commitment to photography beyond formal education.

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Michael Durand is a fine art photographer working on public commissions and self-initiated projects. His work can be viewed as a playful enquiry into the everyday, presented through a variety of formats from installation, wall-hung and photographic books. Michael has exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in National and International spaces including the National Photographic Archive, Dublin, the National Portrait Gallery, London and the Cité Internationale des Arts, Paris. He has produced commissioned works for the EU Council of Ministers in Brussels, the European Central Bank in Frankfurt, and Waterford Healing Arts Trust, among other national institutions. Michael’s work has been published as books and catalogues, and his work is held in private and public collections in Ireland, Europe and America. Michael is an enthusiastic and supportive educational practitioner who enjoys the shared creative process that education allows.

Study Mode: Blended

Dublin Main Campus

EUR 2750.00