Study profile

Photography is a wide field with multiple possibilities for image-making, meaning-making and sharing the stories of our worlds. For you to develop and maintain your independent practice in this ever-shapeshifting field, our four-year study programme will help you to define your specific interests and solidify your original yet informed photographic voice.

Our programme is centred on making and understanding of images, and starts with a variety of short-term photography assignments, progressing towards longer-term, self-directed projects. For us, collective learning is key. You will be working with peers from different international backgrounds, and this diversity of cultures will enrich your artistic and professional growth. We encourage openness to experimentation in embracing discoveries during your studies.

You might choose to use photography to tell a story entangled with a lived reality, or as a starting point for a creative and critical inquiry into contemporary visual culture. Whichever path you choose -- we expect a strong engagement with the world, a desire to activate impact, and willingness to investigate appropriate techniques, methodologies and discourses.

By the time of graduation, you will direct your work, recognize your audience, and be equipped with all professional tools to position your own practice in the contemporary photography field.

In the video below, students, teachers and the heads of the department tell you more about the BA Photography programme:

Why choose Photography at KABK

With us you will learn to become an independent maker and thinker.

Our courses are taught by an international team of more than 30 professionals in different fields (see the ‘List of Staff’ tab to get to know them!). Each of our teachers brings their own expertise to help you learn critical skills, the process and methods of making, and grow confidence in presenting and positioning yourself as a photographer.

You will acquire competencies in image-making, theory, project development, professional skills, and technical proficiency. You will learn how to give and receive feedback and are expected to stay open to new ways of conceptualizing your ideas.

Our emphasis on collective learning expands into a myriad of possibilities for collaborations with students of other departments, whilst full access Academy’s Workshops infuses your work with tools & techniques complimenting your photographic language.

Through the KABK network you will build access to the Dutch, European and International photography scenes.

Is this study for you?

• You are passionate about creating images and eager to reflect on their meaning.
• You are resilient and empathetic - with or without a camera in your hand.
• You are interested in visual communication and contemplate the cultural & socio-political realities of our times.
• You want to become a photographer, image-maker, or work in the wider photography fields (editor, curator, etc.).

Full-time or Part-time Compact Programme?

We offer both a Full-time (FT) Photography Programme and a Part-time Compact (PTC) Programme. Both FT & PTC are 4-year programmes. Please refer to Part-time Compact to decide which programme fits your personal situation best. If you work 2 days per week, we advise you to look at the Part-time Compact Programme.