Art Degrees Online

Photographic Imaging — Bachelor of Fine Arts

Successful photographic professionals possess an understanding of composition as well as a wide array of technical skills — from choosing the right equipment to perfecting techniques while capturing visually compelling images.

In our photography program, you’ll learn the basics of color, design, visual expression, various camera techniques and applications, digital imaging, and business practices. You’ll strive to develop a solid photographic identity, purpose, and direction.

Program graudates are prepared to seek entry-level positions such as newspaper photojournalist, studio manager, commercial photographer, editorial photographer, and photo graphic editor with advertising agencies, publishing houses, magazines, and production companies.

This Program is designed to prepare a student for an entry-level position in a career related to commercial photography, such as commercial photographer, digital imaging technician, event photographer, commercial assistant photographer, photography lab technician, photography restoration specialist, wedding photographer, portrait photographer, or advertising photographer.

This program will provide students with basic competencies in the following areas:

Black and white film and laboratory practices
Business marketing and management
Camera control (film choice, exposure, aperture, shutter)
Color film and lab practices
Critique and analysis of photographs
Digital camera control
Digital imaging
Film developing and printing skills
Photographic composition
Portfolio development
Presentation techniques
Project collaboration
Studio lighting and equipment (including strobes and medium format cameras)

List of Required Courses:
PHOTO 160 Black and White Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 165 Digital Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 175 Intermediate Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 188 Cooperative Work Experience (3 units)
PHOTO 190 Studio (3 units)
PHOTO 195 Color Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 205 Advanced Digital Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 285 Advanced Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 295 Professional Practices and Portfolio (3 units)

Total: 27 units

Recommended electives:
ART 124A Drawing I
ART 140 Beginning Design 2-D Media
ART 110 History of Art: Paleolithic to Renaissance
ART 111 History of Art: Renaissance to the Present

Sequence of Courses:

Fall – First Year
PHOTO 160 Black and White Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 165 Digital Photography (3 units)
ART 124A Drawing I RECOMMENDED

Spring – First Year
PHOTO 175 Intermediate Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 190 Studio (3 units)
ART 110 History of Art: Paleolithic to Renaissance RECOMMENDED

Fall – Second Year
PHOTO 195 Color Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 205 Advanced Digital Photography (3 units)
ART 140 Beginning Design 2-D Media RECOMMENDED

Spring – Second Year
PHOTO 188 Cooperative Work Experience (3 units)
PHOTO 285 Advanced Photography (3 units)
PHOTO 295 Professional Practices and Portfolio (3 units)
ART 111 History of Art: Renaissance to the Present RECOMMENDED

The City College of San Francisco’s Photography Department is one of the oldest and largest programs in the country with over two dozen courses and more than thirty Instructors. We offer a broad selection of classes including but not limited to History and Aesthetics of Photography, Advanced B&W Darkroom Techniques, Advanced Studio Lighting, Digital Imaging, Mixed Media and Business Practices of Photography.

Our faculty and staff consist of experienced professionals who create an environment that encourages creativity, technical aptitude and critical thinking. Whether your interest is as a fine artist, commercial photographer or enthusiast, we will provide the means and guidance that will help you achieve your goals.

THE PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAM OFFERS

Associate of Science
The Program is designed so that students may satisfy the requirements of graduation from the College. Students who satisfy these requirements receive the major in Photography if they complete the program of study with a B minus (2.75 grade-point average) or higher. The program adviser of the Photography Department will help students who desire to plan special programs of study.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students will be able to:
Use the traditional tools and techniques of photography.
Develop skills in digital technologies.
Apply concepts and aesthetics to create and evaluate photographic images.
Satisfy academic transfer requirements to institutions of higher learning.
CAREER OPPORTUNITES
Commercial photography
Portrait photography
Fine Art photography
Editorial photography
Documentary photography
Photographic lab technician
Photo assisting
Digital Imaging Artist
Photo Retoucher