CRUISE SHIP PHOTOGRAPHY
As a Cruise Ship Photographer, you’ll capture unforgettable memories while exploring the world! Imagine waking up in a new country every day, with free time to wander ports in over 300 destinations across 10+ countries on all 7 continents. From iconic cities to remote islands, you’ll see it all.
No prior experience? No problem! Our expert training done in Stellenbosch will equip you with everything you need to succeed. With free living expenses onboard, we facilitate everything from visa applications to job placement and travel arrangements. Get ready to explore and experience the world like never before!
IS IT FOR ME?
- Age group 21-35 (some exceptions over 35)
- A keen interest in photography
- Understand and speak English well
- Experience in Sales and customer service
- Hold a South African Passport
COURSE DETAILS
The course is held in Stellenbosch, and all equipment is provided during the course.
Cost:
3 weeks: R24,500 once off (Required if you have no prior photography experience).
2 weeks: R19,500 once off (Option for a shortened course if you have photography experience).
Duration: 3 weeks or 2 weeks.
Expected earnings on the cruise ship:
- $1000-$1200 plus Commission – $80-250/week
Benefits of the cruise ship:
- Flights to and from the ship
- Travel expenses to the ship
- Medical while onboard
- Uniforms (excluding shoes)
- Reimburses up to $300 Medical
- Reimburses Visa
- Accommodation & meals
- All camera equipment is provided
MATERIALS COVERED
- Photography Basics and Photoshop
- Theory and practical
- Equipment, composition, approach, ship life
- Assist with applications, resume and portfolio
- Connect candidates for an interview with the Cruise Line.
- Practical training in all events
- Beach shoot
- Portfolios
COURSE DATES
13 – 17 OCTOBER 2025
20 – 24 OCTOBER 2025
10 – 14 NOVEMBER 2025
17 – 21 NOVEMBER 2025
24 – 28 NOVEMBER 2025
WEEK 1: 26 – 30 JANUARY 2026
WEEK 2: 2 – 6 FEBRUARY 2026
WEEK 3: 9 – 13 FEBRUARY 2026
WEEK 1: 2 – 6 MARCH 2026
WEEK 2: 9 – 13 MARCH 2026
WEEK 3: 16 – 20 MARCH 2026
WEEK 1: 13 – 17 APRIL 2026
WEEK 2: 20 – 24 APRIL 2026
WEEK 3: 27 APRIL – 1 MAY 2026
WEEK 1: 18 – 22 MAY 2026
WEEK 2: 25 – 29 MAY 2026
WEEK 3: 1 – 5 JUNE 2026
WEEK 1: 27 – 31 JULY 2026
WEEK 2: 3 – 7 AUGUST 2026
WEEK 3: 10 – 14 AUGUST 2026
WEEK 4: 24 – 28 AUGUST 2026
WEEK 1: 31 AUGUST – 4 SEPTEMBER 2026
WEEK 2: 7 – 11 SEPTEMBER 2026
WEEK 1: 12 -16 OCTOBER 2026
WEEK 2: 19 – 23 OCTOBER 2026
WEEK 3: 26 – 30 OCTOBER 2026
WEEK 1: 9 – 13 NOVEMBER 2026
WEEK 2: 16 – 20 NOVEMBER 2026
WEEK 3: 23 – 27 NOVEMBER 2026
ALL THE FAQS
- Travel and accommodation costs for the course in Stellenbosch.
- Medical examination: cost will vary depending on the Cruise Line.
- Dental examination and certificate.
- Visa: +/- R2000 (reimbursed by Cruise Line)
- Background Check: +- R250
- Seamons book: +/- R700
- Camera equipment: Provided by the cruise
- Photographers
- Gallery: sales
- Lab: editing and printing
- Opportunity to be promoted: become a Senior Photographer, Studio Photographer or Photo Manager.
READY TO SIGN UP?
Complete this short form and an experienced Cruise ship consultant will reach out to you to provide more information on the courses.
THE PROCESS
REAL EXPERIENCES
PJ Hougaard
The course was an amazing experience. I left each day with a solid understanding of the skills needed for cruise ship photography. I completed the course in February, and just two months later, I joined my first ship in New York. I’m halfway through my first contract. This course was instrumental in shaping my career, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested.
Este
Back in 2017 I decided I had to make a drastic career change. I came across Stellenbosch Academy of Photography and Design. The course was thorough and gave me exactly the tools I needed to start my career on cruise ships. This year will mark my 5th year at sea. I have visited over 60 different countries and have had tremendous professional growth.
Mattie Miller
Four years ago, I began a life-changing journey. After taking a photography course at the academy, I landed a job with Norwegian Cruise Line. Since then, I’ve travelled to 39 countries, met amazing people, and honed my skills in photography, sales, and guest relations. From studio portraits to weddings, this experience opened doors I never imagined.
JOSH ROWE
Photography has led me to incredible work opportunities on cruise and expedition ships. The course gave me a strong foundation in both technical photography skills and real-world job insights, allowing me to travel, grow my career, and capture wildlife in amazing places like Antarctica. I’d highly recommend it to anyone passionate about photography and adventure!
SIMONE ROWE
I completed the 3-week Cruise Ship Photography course, which opened doors to amazing opportunities on cruise and expedition ships. The Academy gave me a solid foundation in photography, from technical skills to on-the-job expectations, which allowed me to travel, build my career, and even shoot wildlife in Antarctica. Highly recommended for anyone interested in photography and travel!
