Diploma in Photography: A diploma in photography is a 1-year, career-focused program designed to teach students the creative and technical skills needed to become professional photographers. It mainly focuses on hands-on practical training to master lighting, composition, camera operation, and post-production. The core syllabus is divided into advanced practical techniques, foundation theory, diverse shooting genres, and post-production software. The admission window is currently open for the academic year 2026-27 for Diploma in Photography courses at top institutions like Subharti, Manglayatan, IMTS, and Dr Preeti Global.
To get admission in these courses, students must have completed their 12th education from a certified board (CBSE/ICSE or other recognized board). Photography course fee generally ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 60,000 for a full course. Applicants interested in enrolling in the Diploma course of Photography can visit the official website of the selected university or institute. The last date to fill the application form is 10th August 2026*. For more detailed information related to photography courses, students can read the article below.
Diploma in Photography Admission: Latest Update
- IMTS Institute started the admission process for the Diploma in Photography course for the academic year 2026-27. The application window will be open till 10th August 2026*.
- Candidates can take admission in the Diploma in Photography program for the 2026-27 session. The admission window of Subharti University is open until 10th August 2026*.
Diploma in Photography Admission Highlights
| Course Name | Diploma in Photography |
| Eligibility | 10th Passed or Equivalent |
| Duration | 1 Year |
| Approved By | UGC |
| Level | Diploma |
| Fees | INR 20,000 to INR 60,000 |
| Offered By | IMTS Institute |
What is a Diploma in Photography Course?
This is a 1-year career-oriented professional course that focuses on providing hands-on training in creative composition and editing. This course includes the science, art, application, and practice of generating durable images by means of light or other electromagnetic energy, either electronically by the input of an image sensor, or chemically by the input of a light-sensitive physical medium such as photographic film.
Classically, a lens is used to focus the light reflected or emitted from objects into a real image on the light-sensitive surface of a camera during a timed exposure. A microelectronic image sensor produces an electrical charge at each pixel, which is electronically processed and stored in a digital image file for subsequent display or processing. The Diploma in Photography course provides students with technical and creative skills in photography and editing. This program emphasises hands-on training in diverse genres like Fashion, Commercial, Photo Journalism, and Wildlife photography.
Diploma in Photography Key Points
Candidates looking to build a career with a well-paying job in a short period of time can enrol in this course. The following are important points for candidates to know before enrolling:
Duration: This course is a 1-year course that students can pursue after completing 12th grade.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the course, students must have passed 12th grade with a minimum of 50% marks from any stream. There is no age limit for enrolling in the program.
Fees: The course fees range from around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 60,000 for the full program.
Curriculum: Students will learn various aspects of photography, including the use of cameras, editing software, and different styles of photography.
Job Opportunities: Product photographer, wildlife photographer, fashion photographer
Salary: Starting Rs. 2 lakhs per year; very experienced can get Rs. 5 lakhs per year
Some Famous Colleges: Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT), Delhi School of Photography
Companies that Hire: E-commerce firms like Amazon and Flipkart; Media firms like Discovery, Pepperfry, etc.
Diploma in Photography Course Details
A Diploma in Photography course is a one-year program. Students who want to pursue this Diploma can complete class 12th from a recognised board, and also those who have passed 10th can do this one-year photography course. Photography is the art of capturing images in a way that makes them suitable for visual displays.
In this course, students practice taking pictures of a variety of subjects from different perspectives with knowledge of camera angles and shots. A combination of theory and practical practice is included in the curriculum to help students develop their photography skills. Various aspects of photography are involved, including camera, lighting, subject, and perspective.
Diploma in Photography Admission
The registration portal is open for applicants who want to make a career in Photography. Top institutions like Subharti, Manglayatan, IMTS, and Dr Preeti Global are accepting admission for Diploma in Photography for the academic session 2026-27. To be qualified for a diploma in photography admission, students must have completed 12th from a recognized board with aggregate marks of 45 to 50%. Some institutes offer 5% relaxation to reserved category (SC/ST/OBC) students. After completing a Diploma in photography, students will explore roles such as wildlife photographer, wedding photographer, fashion photographer, and commercial photographer. Last date to fill the registration form is 10th August 2026*.
Why the Photography Profession is Leading in the Market?
Photography is a subject that requires no theoretical study, as everything a student needs to learn is on a DSLR camera. Basic Tools are very easy to learn – Practicing the techniques to click photos enhances the quality of becoming a professional photographer.
Once the concept is clear, students are all set for industrial exposure and can learn both Outdoor and indoor shoots by just practicing. Leading professionals are at top companies that are hiring photographers and paying a handsome amount.
Freelancing is the most popular way of getting known; students can start their career by taking small projects for the task and slowly can grow and do large projects.
Diploma in Photography in India
This is the art offered in various institutions and universities of India in the form of a Diploma in Photography, which is the most perfect example. Moreover, it is the best way to grab hold of the rare possibilities of work as a photographer for the movie industry in Bollywood. Besides, Indian photographers like to capture scenes of wildlife and aquatic life.
Those are the two favorite topics in most cases. Photography diploma fees in India last from INR 20,000 to INR 60,000 on average. The student who successfully finishes this can start his/her career in the film industry of India with a basic annual package of INR 4-5 lakh.
Diploma in Photography in Mumbai
This photography diploma course is very popular among students who want to establish their careers as professional photographers. The course is being offered by many universities in Mumbai. The city is also known as Bollywood City. It is India’s biggest film Industry. The scope for such students is very broad.
Diploma in Photography in Lucknow
A diploma in Photography course is also available for students in Lucknow. This course is suitable for students interested in photography and wanted to make a career around portraits, landscapes, and photography. The admission process is ongoing at IMTS, and interested students can apply. After completing this course, students can work as a professional photographer in part-time, full-time, or as a freelancer and can make good earnings.
Diploma in Photography Course Syllabus
The Diploma in Photography syllabus can be divided into two semesters. A variety of aspects of photography are covered, including the camera and light, as well as subject matter and perspective, so you can practice different techniques with different subjects and perspectives.
The syllabus of the program is given below. Candidates can get an idea of the course by seeing the syllabus of the program.
| Part I | |
| Sr. No. | Subjects of Study |
| 1 | Film Cameras & Processing |
| 2 | History of Photography: early experiments and later developments |
| 3 | Cameras‐ old and new: a) Different parts of a camera |
| 4 | Photographic optics: a) Light-character |
| 5 | Lenses‐ wide, zoom, tele, macro, fisheye |
| 6 | Shutters: Functions |
| 7 | Aperture: Functions |
| 8 | Focusing: Spot, Matrix |
| 9 | Exposures‐ exposure meter functions |
| 10 | International Standard Organization (ISO) |
| 11 | Color filters‐ different kinds |
| 12 | Composition‐ rules of composition |
| 13 | Photographic light sources‐ natural and artificial |
| 14 | Flash |
| Part II | |
| Digital Imaging | |
| 1 | Lightroom, Photoshop |
| 2 | Sensors |
| 3 | Photo Tools |
| 4 | Portrait Photography‐ basic lighting systems |
| 5 | Photo Correction |
| 6 | Photographing headshots, ¼, ½, ¾ |
| 7 | Studio lighting‐ 1/2/3 lights‐ softboxes, snoot, barn doors |
| 8 | Photographing in available light |
| 9 | Wildlife, fashion, and photojournalism |
| 10 | Close‐up: accessories and techniques |
| Part III | |
| Depth of Field Exercises (Practical) | |
| 1 | Preparing full and ¼ portraits under different lighting conditions |
| 2 | Photographing a subject with different lenses |
| 3 | Use of color filters, lighting, and effects |
| 4 | Group photos and arrangements |
| 5 | Photographing, use of bounce and reflected lights |
| 6 | Selection of shots |
Diploma in Photography: Entrance Exams
Some top universities offer admission for these programs based on the entrance exam. Students have to clear the entrance exam to enrol in this diploma course. The famous entrance exam for admission to the Diploma in Photography is given below.
Asian Academy of Film and Television Global Entrance Exam (AAFT GEE): The AAFT GEE is an online test that evaluates the candidate’s aptitude, followed by an interview.
Creative Hut Institute of Photography and Film Entrance Exam: This institute-level exam is required for admission to the Diploma in Photography and other related courses.
Diploma in Photography Course Fee
The course fee is different in many institutes. This course ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 40,000. Additionally, the course fee may cover other expenses such as identity card fees, examination fees, and various activity fees. Factors Influencing Course Fees are Institute Reputation, Course Duration, Location, and whether the course is Online or Offline.
Diploma in Photography Scope
In today’s developing world, diploma jobs in photography are very high in demand and have a good job outlook in today’s growing economy. Aside from that, there are so many job opportunities in both the private and public sectors of the economy.
Employment Areas
There are so many job Opportunities available in both private and public sectors. Students can get the jobs in many areas, like the Film Industry or on Television. Students can check more employment areas like mentioned below:-
- Colleges & Universities
- Photography Shops
- Digital Media Houses
- Wildlife Photography/Documentary
- News & Media
Job Types
After completing this diploma course, Students can apply for various job roles in the relevant fields with a high salary. I have mentioned the types of jobs after completing a Diploma in Photography after 12th.
- Freelance Photographer
- Photo Journalist
- Fashion Photographer
- Still Life Photographer
- Photographer
- Photoshop Editor (More)
Diploma Photography Courses
Diploma photography courses provide structured, hands-on practical training to master technical and creative aspects of imaging. Students learn camera operations, digital editing, lighting tech, and multiple categories like portrait or commercial photography. These programs are a combination of theory and practical studio sessions. It helps hopeful photographers build a professional portfolio and launch successful creative careers.
| Course Name | Institute / College | Duration |
| Diploma in Still Photography | Subharti University | 1 Year |
| Diploma in Photography | Manglayatan University | 1 Year |
| Diploma in Photography | Dr Preeti Global | 1 Year |
| PG Diploma in Still Photography | IMTS Institute | 1-2 Years |
Diploma in Photography Salary
The Diploma in Photography salary depends on the recruiter type, job type, job location, work type, etc. The salary of the photographer varies according to their skills and work experience. So, there is no proper idea of how much a photographer earns. But if we give you an idea, then we say a photographer earns approx INR 4 to 5 lakhs at the start of their career.
Eligibility for Diploma in Photography Course?
Eligibility for a Diploma in Photography generally requires completing 10th grade or 12th grade from a recognized board. Students from any specific background can apply for a course. Most professional schools require a 12th pass with 45% to 50% marks, though basic or online options may accept 10th-grade completion.
Educational Requirements:
- Minimum Education: Students must have completed their Class 10 (SSC) or Class 12 (HSC).
- Accepted Streams: Applicants from any stream are eligible for admission in Arts, Science, or Commerce.
- Passing Marks: Students have scored an aggregate score of 45% to 50%, depending on the university
Important Documents for Diploma in Photography
- 10th or 12th standard passing certificate
- Academic transcripts or mark sheets
- School leaving or transfer certificate
- Proof of identity (Aadhar card, passport, or driver’s license)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Photography portfolio (if required by the institution)
- Migration certificate (for changing boards or universities)
Diploma in photography after 12th
The admission process for Diploma in Photography courses is ongoing at IMTS Institute for the current academic session of 2026. The duration of this diploma program is 12 months. Students who have completed class 12th from a reputed board are eligible to apply for the Photography diploma course. The selection of the applicants will be based on merit scores.
Diploma in Photography After 10th
A diploma in photography after 10th course focuses on camera technique, lighting, composition, and photo editing, which provides practical training suitable for industry needs. This course can provide a great pathway for those students who want to become photographers. Students can learn the fundamentals of the craft and develop practical skills.
Job opportunities after finishing a Diploma in Photography with Salary
Diploma in Photography opens doors to a variety of career opportunities in multiple fields. Salary may vary as it depends on experience, skills, and knowledge. It generally ranges from INR 2 LPA to INR 8 LPA. For more details related to the job and salary range, check the table below.
| Job Role | Description | Average Salary Range (Per Year) |
| Commercial / Product Photographer | Shoots goods for e-commerce, catalogs, and advertisements | INR 3 LPA to INR 6 LPA |
| Photojournalist | Documents news stories and events for media groups | INR 2.5 LPA to INR 5.5 LPA |
| Photo Editor | Retouches and refines raw images using software like Photoshop | INR 2 LPA to INR 4 LPA |
| Fashion Photographer | Works with models, clothing lines, and studios | INR 4 LPA to INR 8 LPA |
| Wedding and Event Photographer | Captures ceremonies, parties, and private functions | INR 2 LPA to INR 8 LPA |
Online Diploma in Photography
Students can pursue this photography course online. Many institutions can offer this course online. This Diploma offers Flexible Learning options for photographers. This Diploma course can cover the fundamentals of Photography Principles, camera technique, and many more.
Eligible: Candidates interested in this course must have completed 10+2 (Class 12th) from a recognized board with a minimum of 45-50% marks, but some courses may accept students who have completed grade 10th.
FAQs of Diploma in Photography
Q1: Is photography a future career?
Ans: Yes, Photography is an evolving field where new trends, techniques, and technologies emerge regularly. This allows professionals to continuously learn and improve their craft, making it a career growth opportunity.
Q2: How to become a photographer after 12th?
Ans: To become a photographer after 12th, students should pursue a diploma or certification in photography, build a portfolio and gain some experience under an expert.
Q3: What is a diploma in photography?
Ans: A diploma in photography provides knowledge of sound and practical skills required to perform in the photography industry. The students who are qualified with the ability and apply photography functions within the photography environment.
Q4: What is the highest-paying job in photography?
Ans: Commercial, Fashion, and Real Estate Photography are the most highest paying job in photography.
Q5: Which Diploma is best for photography?
Ans. The best Diploma in photography is Diploma in Art of Photography, Professional Diploma in Wildlife Photography, and Professional Diploma in Travel Photography. Professional Diploma in Fashion Photography, Professional Diploma in Photojournalism.
Q6: Which course is best for photography?
Ans: The best photography course generally depends on the career goals. Top options include are Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) for deep professional study, a Diploma for practical skills, or a Short Certificate Course
