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Are there any additional or hidden charges?
No. As simple as that.

How do I know I will get good service?
Unlike many others, we offer an honest service. Who better to trust than an ex employee in the same field(photography)? Image have also been in business for over 20 years. No other photo concession has invested so much into South Africa.

How much money would I expect to earn?
Pay scales typically range from $800 U.S. dollars - $1300 U.S. dollars per month as a junior photographer, promotion of course results in higher pay and if you learn quick and work hard you generally get promoted. You will earn a basic salary of $1000(ship and itinerary dependant) but the incentive is still there to earn commission. It is a well run money spinner where hard work is rewarded. There are different items you earn commission from but it is a team effort and you earn from collective work as well. Rest assured you will earn a good income. It is also dependent on ship itinerary.

Are staff members allowed to go on-shore at port locations?
Yes, you will be able to visit free when not on duty. Leisure time will vary according to which ship/cruise line you go on. Some you have more time off than others. You will definitely have time off to explore and do fun activities

Is the food and accommodation free for staff members on board the ships?
Yes, this is what makes this career a great opportunity to actually save money.

What length of contract would I be offered by the cruise company?
6 months. You can request extensions. Holidays are generally 6 - 8 week.

How much money do I need before I can go over?
This is an estimate:
-R3000+ to cover your first couple of weeks...you do not want to go over with NO cash.
-R1000 Visa – this ranges from month to month depending on the exchange rate. When I last checked it was R700.
- Medical by an approved doctor - varied expense
- More or less R8000 for training course at the Image academy in Stellenbosch.

Please remember that there are costs that must be paid off to Image while you earning, such as the camera body if you require one($662), uniform($200) and $500 deposit. You do not need this money before you leave though.

What is the $500 deposit?
As soon as you start working, you need to pay Image $500. This will be deducted from your earnings until you reach $500. When you resign and give 4 weeks notice, you will get this $500 back. If you are fired for whatever reason, your $500 deposit is forfeited.

What expenses do I have while living onboard?
Accommodation, meals, uniforms, medical attention are FREE. The only expense you will have is for drinks, cigarettes, toiletries, internet and telephone cards. When you get into the different ports you tend to use your money on souvenirs, clothing, dining out and activities/exploration.

Do I need money in my bank account before leaving?
NO

What visa do I need?
C1/D USA Seaman's Visa. I will assist you in getting the Visa. An appointment needs to be made with the USA embassy and all necessary paperwork will be given to you.

What happens if I get sick onboard?
Each ship has a qualified doctor and nurses onboard. They run the infirmary (onboard clinic) which has state of the art facilities. Should you need serious medical attention, you will be transported to the nearest hospital at the company’s expense. You need to be 100% fit and drug free before you can go abroad purely because the company will be responsible for your medical wellbeing while you are employed and onboard. Once off the ship – you are responsible for your own medical expenses. This is when you’re on vacation.

How flexible are cruise lines in terms of religion? Eg: Jumuah or Christian services etc.
No days off – however you can request hours off during your praying time etc. There are chapels/Muslim praying facility on most ships which you can use if the guests are not using this facility.

Is there a gym on the ship?
Yes – there is a crew gym as well as a guest gym. You can use both. The guest gym can be used only during allocated hours. Some ships even have a crew swimming pool, and all have a sun deck.

What if I fail the course at the academy?
If you fail, you can redo the course at no extra charge.

Why choose the Stellenbosch academy?
The Stellenbosch Academy is a reputable, accredited training institution, focusing on quality education and business ethics. Our achievements have been proven by winning various accolades and achieving great success in securing employment in the competitive photographic and graphic design industry.
We are the only educational institute in South Africa to offer this exciting programme and the only institute Image Photographic Services recognizes and is prepared to work with in southern Africa.

FAQ