The Major and Minor programs in Photography acknowledges photography as a discipline with a distinct artistic and historical identity. It also recognizes that contemporary photographic practice encompasses a rich multiplicity of formal and conceptual approaches. The course structure of the program and the orientation of its faculty reflect a concern that the student receives a strong historical and theoretical understanding of the medium. The program stresses the need for students to acquire the concepts and vocabulary necessary for critical discussion of photographic work; their own and that of others. Emphasis is placed on photography’s social, as well as artistic, ramifications. Both a Major and a Minor program are offered.
The Department of Studio Arts offers programs that emphasize the importance of practical work with practicing artists. Through a series of courses in ceramics, drawing, fibres, intermedia/cyberarts, painting, photography, print media, and sculpture, students increase their awareness of what constitutes creativity and understanding of the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of art today.
Curriculum
Major in Photography — 60 credits
Minor in Photography — 30 credits
Courses may include:
Foundations in Photographic Vision: Theory and Practice I, II
Black and White Photography
Digital Photography
Introduction to Contemporary Issues in Photography
Development of Photographic Traditions
See the BFA degree description for more information on general degree requirements. For a complete list of courses: Undergraduate Calendar
Facilities
The Photography program is located in the Engineering and Computer Science and Visual Arts Complex. The building, conveniently located in the centre of downtown, provides immediate access to the city, Concordia’s Webster Library, the Museum of Fine Arts and many other cultural and commercial venues.
The photographic facilities include: hi‑end computers, a drum scanner, two virtual drum scanners plus negative and flatbed scanners, 44” inkjet printers and other printers including a quad tone printer, 20 colour enlargers, a colour darkroom with 30” and 40” colour processors and print viewing area, 19 black and white 17 enlargers, a large print darkroom and finishing area, and two studios. The facilities also have portable photographic equipment: cameras including digital 4 × 5 and 6 × 7, and accessories including electronic flash kits, soft boxes, tripods, light metres and other items.
Students in the photography program have access to the Centre for Digital Arts (CDA). The darkrooms and digital areas are accessible Monday to Friday until 10:00 p.m. and Saturday until 9 p.m. Students should have their own 35mm camera for basic courses.