Photography students explore visual storytelling through industry connections
TAFE Queensland students gained valuable industry insights into the power of visual storytelling during a special guest speaker session focused on the Out From the Mist Photography, Short Film and Music Competition.
The session brought together an inspiring panel of creative professionals, including Lauren Spriggs, Ilyse Elphick, Kris Anderson and former TAFE Queensland student, Rachelle Van, who shared their creative experiences to spark conversations around wellbeing.
Now in its eighth year, Out From the Mist is an international arts competition celebrating photography, short films and original music that explore the lived experiences of mental illness.
The competition awards $10,000 in prize money each year, providing amateur and professional artists with a platform to share personal stories that foster understanding, reduce stigma and inspire meaningful conversations.
Through insightful discussions and an interactive Q&A, students explored how the arts can be a powerful tool for connection, advocacy and change.
They gained a deeper understanding of visual communication, authentic storytelling and how to create images that resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impact.
Industry-connected experiences are a key part of TAFE Queensland's Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CUA50925), linking students with practising industry professionals and exposing them to current creative practices, emerging trends and real-world perspectives that extend beyond the classroom.
As Queensland's largest and most experienced training provider, TAFE Queensland works closely with industry to ensure its training remains relevant, innovative and responsive to the evolving needs of employers.
These strong industry partnerships enrich student learning while helping graduates develop the technical expertise, professional confidence and industry awareness employers value.
Students studying the diploma build advanced skills in photography, digital imaging, visual communication, studio and location lighting, commercial photography and digital content creation.
They refine these skills in industry-standard commercial studios, where they construct, light, frame and capture images using the same equipment, technologies and workflows found in professional photography environments.
These real-world learning environments are enhanced by regular guest lectures, workshops and industry events, providing students with valuable networking opportunities, practical insights and firsthand advice from experienced creatives.
Combined with guidance from highly experienced teachers, students graduate with a professional portfolio, practical experience and the confidence to transition successfully into the creative industries.
For students looking to continue their education, TAFE Queensland also offers a seamless pathway to higher education.
Through its partnership with the University of Canberra, graduates of the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging receive guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts), delivered at TAFE Queensland's South Bank campus.
By combining hands-on learning, industry-standard facilities, meaningful industry engagement and clear university pathways, TAFE Queensland equips photography students with the skills, experience and confidence to graduate job-ready.
More importantly, by connecting students with practising creatives whose work shapes important social conversations, TAFE Queensland ensures graduates leave with more than just technical capability.
They graduate with the professional networks, creative confidence and storytelling skills needed to create compelling visual content and contribute to the future of Queensland's creative industries and communities.