April 2023

The Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators supports formal photography education and the continuation of the Photographic Technology program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

The Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators (CAPIC) expresses its concern regarding the potential closure of the Photographic Technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). As a professional organization representing photographers and visual creators across Canada, we strongly believe that formal photography education plays a crucial role in shaping the industry and ensuring its continued growth and success.

In Canada, the demand for professional photography services is steadily increasing, with the photography industry contributing over $2.7 billion to the Canadian economy annually. This growth is driven by the rise of digital media and the increased need for visual content across various platforms. With this growth comes the need for highly skilled and trained professionals who can meet the demands of clients and consumers alike.

Formal photography education programs, such as the Photographic Technology program at NAIT, provide aspiring photographers with the necessary technical skills, industry knowledge, and ethical standards required to succeed in this competitive field. These programs offer hands-on training, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology, giving students the opportunity to develop their craft and build a solid foundation for their careers.

Moreover, formal photography education programs help to establish a standard of professionalism in the industry. By promoting ethical and sustainable practices, these programs contribute to the overall quality and reputation of the profession. They also help to foster a sense of community among photographers, allowing them to connect with peers and mentors and learn from their experiences.

We would like to emphasize that our position on the importance of formal photography education is not unique to Canada. Similar organizations and associations in the United States and the United Kingdom also support the value of these programs. The American Society of Media Photographers, for example, advocates for the continued funding and support of photography education programs, stating that they are essential for the growth and development of the industry. The British Institute of Professional Photography similarly emphasizes the importance of formal education in photography, stating that it is crucial for the professionalization of the industry.

In light of these facts, we urge decision-makers to reconsider the potential closure of the Photographic Technology program at NAIT. We believe that this program, and others like it across Canada, play a critical role in the development and success of the photography industry, and we stand in support of its continuation.

We invite people to sign the online petition on this link.
If you have any questions, please contact Trevor Zimmerman, Labour Relations Director with the NAIT Academic Staff Association: lrdnasa@gmail.com.