Top 10 Digital Imaging Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a digital imaging specialist in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications show that an individual has taken the time and effort to learn about digital imaging, and has gone through a program or course of study that verifies their competency. Employers can trust that a certified digital imaging specialist will be able to handle any task related to digital imaging with confidence and accuracy. Additionally, certifications can open up more job opportunities, as some employers may only consider applicants who have achieved specific certifications.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Digital Imaging Specialists and explain how they can assist in advancing a digital imaging specialist's career.

What are Digital Imaging Specialist Certifications?

Digital imaging specialist certification is a program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge, skills and credentials needed to become a qualified digital imaging specialist. The course typically covers topics such as digital photography basics, image editing techniques, color management, workflow design and optimization, file formats and compression techniques. It also provides an understanding of image formats and how to properly use them for various applications.

The certification can be beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in digital imaging or for those who work with digital images on a regular basis. Having this certification can open up new opportunities such as working as an independent digital imaging consultant or becoming employed by companies that specialize in digital imaging services. It can also help individuals gain recognition in their field by demonstrating their expertise and commitment to the industry. Additionally, having this certification may allow individuals to charge higher rates when providing professional services related to digital imaging.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the digital imaging specialist certification requirements and course offerings before enrolling in a program. Many courses may offer varying levels of expertise or specializations, so it's important to find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, look for certifications from respected organizations to ensure you are receiving the highest quality education and training.

Related: What does a Digital Imaging Specialist do?

Top 10 Digital Imaging Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Digital Imaging Specialists today.

1. Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Imaging

Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Imaging is a certification program offered by Adobe that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and/or Bridge. This certification is designed to help digital imaging professionals demonstrate their knowledge of the latest tools and techniques for working with images.

To become an Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Imaging, you must pass one or more exams administered by Adobe. The exams cover topics such as image composition, color management, retouching, file formats and more. Depending on which exams you take, it can take anywhere from one to three hours to complete the exam(s).

To get started on your path to becoming an Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Imaging, visit the official website at https://www.adobe.com/training/expert-certification/digital-imaging.html where you can find information about the exam content and how to register for the exam(s). You will also need to purchase an exam voucher prior to taking the exam(s). Exam vouchers cost $180 USD each and are valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Once you have completed all required exams and achieved a passing score on each one, you will be awarded an Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Imaging certificate from Adobe.

2. Autodesk Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Autodesk Certified Professional in Digital Imaging is a certification program offered by Autodesk, Inc. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the use of digital imaging software. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of image capture, color management, retouching, compositing, and outputting images for print or web.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To become an Autodesk Certified Professional in Digital Imaging, applicants must first pass an online assessment that tests their knowledge of digital imaging principles and techniques. Once they have passed this assessment, they can then register for the certification exam.

The cost of becoming an Autodesk Certified Professional in Digital Imaging depends on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $200 USD to take the exam and receive your certificate. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual certification exam itself.

Once certified, individuals can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise in digital imaging to potential employers or clients. They may also be eligible for discounts on certain Autodesk products or services.

3. Apple Certified Pro in Digital Imaging

Apple Certified Pro in Digital Imaging is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in using Apple's digital imaging software. The certification is offered by Apple and administered by Certiport, an independent testing organization.

The certification program consists of two exams: the Digital Image Editing exam and the Digital Imaging Fundamentals exam. Both exams are available online and must be completed within a certain time frame. The Digital Image Editing exam covers topics such as image editing techniques, color management, and file formats. The Digital Imaging Fundamentals exam covers topics such as digital photography basics, image manipulation, and printing techniques.

It typically takes about four to six weeks to study for and complete both exams. Candidates must score at least 70% on each exam in order to earn the Apple Certified Pro in Digital Imaging credential.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per person.

4. Microsoft Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Microsoft Certified Professional in Digital Imaging (MCP-DI) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their proficiency in digital imaging technologies. The MCP-DI certification is offered by Microsoft and is intended for individuals who are working with digital imaging technologies such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Corel Paint Shop Pro, and other related software.

The MCP-DI certification requires the successful completion of three exams: Exam 70-622: Microsoft Digital Imaging Suite; Exam 70-623: Corel Paint Shop Pro; and Exam 70-624: Adobe Photoshop. Each exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $125 USD each.

To get certified, you must first register for the exams at the Microsoft Learning website. Once you have registered, you will receive an email from Microsoft with instructions on how to access your exams. After completing all three exams successfully, you will receive your MCP-DI certification within two weeks of passing the last exam.

The cost of the MCP-DI certification varies depending on the number of exams taken but typically ranges between $375 USD and $450 USD.

5. CompTIA Digital Imaging Specialist Certification

CompTIA Digital Imaging Specialist (DIS) certification is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the skills and knowledge necessary to capture, manipulate, store, and print digital images. DIS certifies that an individual has the skills to work with digital imaging hardware and software in a professional environment.

The DIS certification requires passing one exam, which takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as digital photography fundamentals, image editing tools, color management principles, file formats and compression techniques, printing technologies, and digital asset management.

To get the CompTIA Digital Imaging Specialist certification you must first pass the DIS exam. The cost of the exam is $179 USD for members of CompTIA or $229 USD for non-members. You can register for the exam online or by phone. After registering for the exam you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your voucher code to take the test at an authorized testing center near you.

Once you have passed the DIS exam you will be awarded your CompTIA Digital Imaging Specialist certification. This certification is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking a recertification exam every three years or by earning continuing education units (CEUs).

6. Avid Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Avid Certified Professional in Digital Imaging is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in Avid’s digital imaging technologies. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to use the Avid Media Composer, Symphony, and Pro Tools software programs to create professional-level video and audio projects.

The certification requires applicants to pass two exams that test their knowledge of Avid's digital imaging tools and techniques. The first exam covers the fundamentals of digital media production, while the second exam focuses on advanced topics such as color correction, motion graphics, and audio mixing. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to complete a real-world project using Avid's tools.

It typically takes about three months for individuals to complete the certification process. To get certified, applicants must register for the program through Avid's website and pay a fee of $299 USD. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials and practice tests that can help them prepare for the exams. After passing both exams and completing a project with Avid's tools, applicants will be awarded their certification from Avid.

7. Corel Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Corel Certified Professional in Digital Imaging is a certification program offered by Corel Corporation, a software company that specializes in digital imaging products. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in digital imaging and their ability to use Corel’s suite of products.

The certification process consists of two parts: the Corel Certified Professional Exam and the Corel Certified Expert Exam. The Corel Certified Professional Exam covers topics such as image manipulation, color management, file formats, printing techniques, and more. The Corel Certified Expert Exam focuses on advanced topics such as vector graphics, animation, web design, and video production.

In order to become certified, individuals must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. It typically takes around 30 hours of study to prepare for the exams.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take it; however, it generally costs between $150 and $200 USD per exam.

8. Nikon Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Nikon Certified Professional in Digital Imaging is a certification program offered by Nikon to recognize professionals who have attained a high level of expertise in digital imaging. It is designed to provide the highest level of professional recognition for those who demonstrate proficiency in the use of Nikon digital imaging equipment and software.

To become a Nikon Certified Professional, you must complete an online application and pass an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as camera settings, image editing, workflow, and more. The exam typically takes around two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience with Nikon digital imaging equipment and software. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work that demonstrates their proficiency with Nikon products.

The cost for the Nikon Certified Professional in Digital Imaging certification is $99 USD. This fee covers the cost of the exam, as well as access to exclusive resources and discounts on select products from Nikon.

9. Canon Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Canon Certified Professional in Digital Imaging (CCPDI) is a certification program offered by Canon USA. It is designed to recognize and reward professionals who demonstrate excellence in digital imaging technology and its application.

The CCPDI certification requires the completion of an online exam that tests knowledge of digital imaging principles, software, and hardware. The exam covers topics such as color management, workflow optimization, image processing, and output options. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and must be taken at an authorized testing center.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites including a minimum of two years of experience in digital photography or imaging technology. Applicants also need to have a working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom Classic and be familiar with Canon cameras and lenses.

The cost for the CCPDI certification is $200 USD plus any applicable taxes and fees. This fee covers the cost of the online exam as well as access to additional resources such as tutorials and webinars.

10. Google Certified Professional in Digital Imaging

Google Certified Professional in Digital Imaging is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Google’s digital imaging products. Individuals who pass the exam are awarded the Google Certified Professional (GCP) designation.

The GCP exam covers topics such as image processing, color management, digital asset management, and file formats. It also includes questions on using Google's suite of digital imaging tools, including Google Photos and Google Image Search. The exam is administered online and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

To become a GCP in Digital Imaging, you must first register for the exam through the Google Certification Program website. Once registered, you will be able to take the exam at a testing center or online. You will need to answer multiple-choice questions and demonstrate your knowledge of digital imaging by completing practical exercises.

The cost of taking the GCP Exam in Digital Imaging varies depending on where you take it. If you take it at a testing center, it typically costs around $150 USD. If you take it online, it usually costs around $100 USD.

Do You Really Need a Digital Imaging Specialist Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Digital Imaging Specialist Certificate to work in the digital imaging field. However, having a certificate can give you an edge over other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. A certificate also shows potential employers that you have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to digital imaging technology.

A certificate program will typically include courses on topics such as digital image editing, color correction, image manipulation, photo retouching and graphic design. You will also learn about the latest software applications used in digital imaging, including Photoshop and Illustrator. Additionally, you may be required to complete projects that demonstrate your practical understanding of digital imaging concepts.

Overall, a Digital Imaging Specialist Certificate is not necessary to work in this field but it can help set you apart from other applicants seeking positions in this industry. It can also provide an excellent foundation if you wish to pursue further education or specialize in a specific area of digital imaging such as medical or forensic imaging.

Related: Digital Imaging Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Digital Imaging Specialist Certifications

Q1. What is a Digital Imaging Specialist Certification?

A1. A Digital Imaging Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and experience of a digital imaging specialist in the areas of digital imaging, photo editing, and multimedia production.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Digital Imaging Specialist?

A2. To become certified as a Digital Imaging Specialist, you must complete an approved training program or course and pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body.

Q3. What benefits does a Digital Imaging Specialist Certification offer?

A3. A Digital Imaging Specialist Certification offers numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher wages, and recognition from employers and peers for having achieved the certification status. It also provides evidence of expertise in digital imaging techniques to potential clients or employers.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a Digital Imaging Specialist?

A4. The time frame for completing the training program or course and passing the exam varies depending on the individual’s level of experience with digital imaging technology and their ability to learn new skills quickly. Generally, it takes approximately six months to one year to complete all requirements for certification as a Digital Imaging Specialist.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Digital Imaging Specialist?

A5. Yes, there are typically some prerequisites for becoming certified as a Digital Imaging Specialist such as having basic computer skills or prior experience with digital image manipulation software such as Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Lightroom Classic CC/Adobe Lightroom 6/Adobe Photoshop Elements 11+.