by Gerrit Bester
The integration of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) as a core module in the Commercial Photography programme of TUT's Faculty of Arts and Design (Department of Visual Communication) has been instrumental in developing graduates equipped to excel in the evolving professional photography landscape.
This was one of the key takeaways from a WIL debriefing event, The bridge between academia and industry, held on 23 October.
Commercial Photography staff, students and industry came together to network on the success of their WIL interventions, reflect on the future of the photography profession and, above all, highlight the integral role industry plays in students' journey to becoming industry professionals.
The dedicated duo of Hein Grové, Section Head of Commercial Photography, and Monique du Plessis, Lecturer and WIL Coordinator, have clearly tasted the fruits of their efforts since the programme introduced the WIL module in 2020.
WIL 1, a simulated, real-world WIL intervention for second-year students, and WIL 2, a contact hour-based WIL intervention for third-year students, have ensured that future photographers are well prepared for the challenges they will face in the industry.
Du Plessis said that the programme now boasts partnerships with no less than 70 industry members (and counting!), and in 2024, third-year students spent no less than 250 hours in contact with esteemed industry partners to further hone their photography skills.
This year, third-year student Cathan Moore became the first student to complete a month-long international WIL internship at Alex Walker’s Serian, a charismatic collection of exclusive and intimate safari camps in Kenya's prime wilderness, while eight students were placed in jobs following their WIL internships.
Cathan, from Hoedspruit in Limpopo, said it was the opportunity of a lifetime, adding that it was "transformative" and put him in a good position to enter this cut-throat industry. He decided to study photography after winning the Benjamin Mkapa Youth African Photographer of the Year in 2021 with a black and white image of a wildebeest family. The Mkapa African Wildlife Photo Awards honour one of Africa's most beloved leaders, HE Benjamin Mkapa.
After completing his studies, he intends to continue his work in wildlife photography.
Kamogelo Moganedi won a R2 000 Godox SA voucher for his personal video report of his WIL experience with Chris Wall (CW Media) and Mortimer Clark (The Portrait Studio). Godox SA, one of the valued industry partners of Commercial Photography, is a leading brand known for innovative and high-quality lighting equipment used in photography, including studio strobes and portable flashes.
Looking to the future, specifically the Commercial Photography programme, which plans to implement a new curriculum in 2027, Grové quoted Grant Scott (2023), emphasising that photography education should focus not only on teaching how to make photographs, but also on developing individuals who can engage with photography creatively and meaningfully in a broader context. “The goal is to cultivate a deeper interaction with the medium, not just the production of photographs."
Speaking about training "visual entrepreneurs," Grové also highlighted seven survival skills from Tony Wagner to make it in the 21st century. These include: Critical thinking and problem solving, network collaboration and leading by influence, agility and adaptability, initiative and entrepreneurship, effective verbal and written communication, accessing and analysing information and curiosity and imagination.
The day also included insights from Mosa Mailula and Katlego Mukansi, brand influencers for Godox SA, who shared some valuable pointers on growing skills in the areas of off-light strobes and continuous lights, and Jodie Ennik, founder and director of Lampost. The latter is a Johannesburg-based talent agency and a global partner in visual storytelling with an approach that is personal, solution-driven, transparent and real.
Ennik shared her advice with the students to be successful in this industry by being versatile, unique, mastering lighting and equipment, having emotional intelligence, having an outstanding student portfolio, but most importantly having a strong personal signature (niche).
“The WIL debriefing event was a tremendous success, not only in its outcomes but also in fostering meaningful connections within the industry. This session highlighted the importance of nurturing relationships and giving back to ensure that we continue progressing together,” said Du Plessis. “Staff members expressed their commitment to establishing a partnership where TUT not only offers student tuition but also serves as a hub for the industry to come together, exchange valuable insights and shape the future of photographic education. Here's to a bright future ahead!”
Hein Grové, Section Head: Commercial Photography.
Monique du Plessis, lecturer and WIL Coordinator: Commercial Photography.
This year, third-year student Cathan Moore became the first student to complete a month-long international WIL internship.
Kamogelo Moganedi won a R2 000 Godox SA voucher for his personal video report of his WIL experience.
Jodie Ennik, founder and director of Lampost.
Staff, students and industry members attending the WIL debriefing event, The bridge between academia and industry, hosted by the Commercial Photography programme.
Mosa Mailula, a brand influencer for Godox SA.
Katlego Mukansi, a brand influencer for Godox SA.
PHOTOS: Nompumelelo Skosana