In the first week, we break down what it really means to step into art direction. You’ll hear how I found my way into the role, explore the different types of art directors you could become, and understand how art direction compares to creative direction. We’ll look at the different entry points into the industry, what a day in the job actually looks like, and end with a glossary and roadmap to give you the language and structure to move forward.

This week is about strengthening your ability to generate and shape ideas into something tangible. We’ll explore where ideas come from, how to research the zeitgeist, and how to turn loose thoughts into visual strategy. You’ll learn to dissect a creative brief, make your work relevant without losing your voice, and practise moving from inspiration into direction. The week closes with a roadmap and a challenge to put your new process into action.

This week focuses on building a visual language that feels both intentional and unmistakably yours. We’ll start by defining your visual values and training your eye to see with purpose. You’ll explore editing as a creative act, maintaining consistency without falling into repetition, and understanding how visual identity differs from brand identity. By the end of the week, you’ll have a clearer sense of your own visual voice and how to protect it in a crowded industry, supported by a roadmap for next steps.

This week is about transforming abstract ideas into fully realised visual worlds. You’ll learn how to design visual systems that hold together across platforms, craft styling choices that tell a story, and use colour as a strategic tool rather than an afterthought. We’ll also dive into casting as a way to shape narrative and culture, and practise pulling all these elements into one coherent system that can live across different channels. By the end, you’ll know how to create visuals that feel consistent, intentional, and memorable.

This week is about making your ideas land. You’ll learn how to build concept decks that guide, excite, and create trust. We’ll break down the journey of the idea, how to translate concepts into visual systems, and how to communicate your thinking clearly. From moodboards to knowing what to present and when, this week will help you feel more confident in how you sell creative work.

This week is about the jump from theory to execution and turning your ideas into actual shoot days. We’ll cover pre-production strategy, assembling the right team, building a shotlist that protects your concept, and navigating set dynamics. You’ll learn how to stay anchored in your vision while staying flexible when things shift. It’s the behind-the-scenes strategy that makes great shoots look effortless.

This week is about self-presentation and designing a portfolio that opens doors. We’ll look at what to include, how to create range without feeling scattered, and how to write about your work in a way that positions you as the right person for the job. Whether you're starting out or shifting direction, this module will help you communicate what you do and who it’s for — with clarity and style.

In the final week, we focus on building visibility and momentum. You’ll learn how to present yourself online, find the right people, pitch your work with confidence, and build long-term relationships that lead to opportunities. It’s about finding your way in — without waiting to be chosen — and staying in the game for the long run.