FAQ

Will I need to purchase a Digital Camera?

No, we provide the cameras. We have Nikon, Canon, Sony DSLR cameras, Canon motion cameras, Hasselblad and Phase One medium format cameras that may be reserved for assignments or personal work from our Equipment Room.

Will I need to purchase a laptop computer?

Yes, you must purchase your own laptop computer, Algonquin College’s Photography Program is Mac based, hardware and software needs are very specific. This is a prerequisite for acceptance to our program.

The Macbook Pro is one of the main tools of your trade. The money that you spend on the Macbook Pro will be an investment in your future.

Macbook Pro

• 13, 14 or 16-inch model

• M1 Chip 8-Core (or faster)

• 16GB Memory (or higher)

• 512GB SSD Storage (or higher)

All new laptops have a one-year warranty from Apple. If you wish to purchase the 3-year AppleCare Protection Plan it is optional but highly recommended.

Can I use an older Macbook Pro?

Yes, as long as it is a MacBook Pro with similar specs to the required model and is not older than 4 years.

Intel based Mac Book Pros are fine as long as they are 2.0ghz or faster.

Will I need an external hard drive and card reader?

Yes, we highly recommend a 2TB LaCie Hard Drive.  We also highly recommend purchasing your own Multi-Card Reader that will accept SD, SDHC, SDXC, Compact Flash and Micro SD.

This recommendation is based on student feedback.

Will I need to purchase specific software for my computer?

No.  Previously students had to purchase Capture One Pro’s latest photo editing software.  However, we now provide a subscription for students while they are in the program.

Will I need to purchase any Adobe software?  No, you will be provided with a current full version of Adobe’s Creative Cloud which will give you access to all Adobe software. You will also receive the Microsoft Office Suite.  You will receive the software the first week of classes.

Will I need to purchase Microsoft Word?

No.  You will be provided with a current version of Microsoft Office Suite. and Adobe’s Creative Cloud. You will receive the software the first week of classes.

Do I need to purchase a light meter?

No. The program will supply you with the use of an ambient/flash meter with spot attachment. It must be returned on the completion of your course.

Do I need to purchase ink-jet paper and inks?

No. We provide the ink-jet paper (Epson, Hahnemuehle and Canson) and inks for all assignments.

Where should I purchase my supplies? 

There are several professional photographic suppliers located in Ottawa and online who stock equipment and photographic supplies, Vistek and Henry’s.

Will I need to purchase course books?

Yes, however, we recommend you wait until you meet your teachers during the first week of classes. Some books will be required and others recommended. Used books may be purchased from former students or online discounted sources. The Internet is also a great resource of information when necessary.

How much will I spend on supplies? 

Based on financial data received from our students, expect to spend approximately $230 the first year and $475 the second year on books, digital imaging supplies and incidentals.

WHAT WE'RE ABOUT:

Is this a technical or artistic program?

Photography involves both art and technique, take a look online to see some alumni and student work.   Our program has a large technical component, however, you will have the opportunity to do artistic work as well.  You should expect to do a lot of technical work in the first term which concentrates on developing your technical skills.

What is the cost of the Algonquin Photography Program?

The cost of tuition and all subsequent fees are located online here.

Read More: What We're About

When and how to apply?

Applications are accepted through ontariocolleges.ca starting in late September and concluding by February 1st.  We are a program with a lot of interest so the earlier you apply the better chance you have of getting accepted!!

Portfolio requirement for acceptance?

Yes. A submitted portfolio is a requirement of new applicants. Please click here for more information.

Can I talk with someone about the program?

Yes, if you like to speak to our First Year Coordinator, Tracy Byers Reid, about the program you can book an in-person, phone or virtual meeting.  Please email: byersrt@algonquincollege.com

What Camera and Lenses will I have access to?

The program will provide you with access via our Equipment Room to large format view cameras and lenses (Sinar), medium format digital cameras, backs and lenses (Phase One, Hasselblad & Mamiya), professional DSLR (Nikon & Canon), and mirrorless (Nikon, Canon & Sony) cameras and lenses.

What Studio and Lighting Gear will I have access to?

You have 24/7 access to fully equipped Studios. The Studios are equipped with continuous light sources (Aputure LED), flashes (Photogenic, Speedotron & Profoto), a large variety of soft boxes, beauty dishes, octolights, booms, stands, tripods, lighting modifiers, and other grip gear.

Take the Photography Program Studio Virtual Tour.

What On Location Lighting Gear will I have access to?

Portable flash battery packs (Profoto, Elinchrom & Speedotron) for on location shooting along with reflectors and diffusers (California Sunbounce & Photoflex) for natural light location shooting are available to you via our Equipment Room.

What Printing and Scanning Equipment will I have access to?

You have access to wide format professional printers along with a variety of paper and other mediums to print on.   Our print labs also contain film and print scanners, print viewing booths, colour management systems, button makers, t-shirt printers and more.

Take the Photography Program Production Lab Virtual Tour.

What internet, computer & print facilities do I have access to?

All Algonquin College students are provided with an e-mail account and Internet access from home.  Along with this Photography students are allowed daily access to the Photography Program computer and printing labs. 

What if I already own a PC?

Unfortunately, PC platforms are not acceptable as they are not compatible with the software, hardware and photographic equipment in the program. Lectures and Demos are delivered using MacBook Pros. Having a windows computer will create an obstacle that could potentially slow you down, making it harder to follow along.

What if I already own a MacBook Pro?

If you already own a MacBook Pro or a MacBook laptop that was purchased within the last four years with a minimum of 8GB of RAM with preferably a 2GB graphics card you will be fine.

What if I already have a Macbook Air?

We do not recommend the Macbook Air. It does not have the processing capability required for our software. Most Students end up replacing their MacBook Air by their second year of study.