PHOTOGRAPHY (Minor)

Our Photography minor offers an array of courses in the essentials of the industry’s tools, techniques, and practices while preparing students for entrance into a photography field.

The minor is implemented in a state-of-the-art digital facility. Our curriculum places emphasis on the technical/aesthetic skills required to become a successful photographer. The program establishes a foundation for the students to build upon and evolve with the medium of photography. Individual courses focus on mastering the photography techniques such as studio and location lighting, portrait lighting, digital workflow, image manipulation, and retouching. In the classroom, and on location, students are exposed to industry hardware and software products and techniques. Students gain the technical skills necessary to develop an individualized digital photography portfolio.

Potential Careers: Studio Photography, Portrait Photography, Architectural Photography, Fashion Photography, Advertising Photography, Editorial Photography, Documentary Photography, Photojournalism, Event Photography and Photo Technician.

Students must complete five courses for a total of 15 credits for the Photography Minor. Please Note: Computer/Software is required of students in the minor.

Learning Objectives:

• Demonstrate the knowledge and skills in the use of processes, tools, techniques and technology sufficient to work from concept to finished product. This involves a mastery of the materials, equipment, and processes of the discipline, including uses of cameras, lighting/digital technologies and printing.

• Demonstrate the understanding of visual forms and their aesthetic functions, and basic design principles, developing throughout the minor, with attention to such areas as composition, color, and lighting to produce professional images.

• Demonstrate the understanding of industrial and commercial applications of photographic techniques.

• Use and adapt to a variety of computer software and industry hardware for photographic purposes.

• Demonstrate effective use of written, verbal, and non-verbal communication, employing relevant knowledge, skills, and judgment in a professional level setting.

• Work effectively independently and as a team associate, demonstrating time management, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Gain an understanding of photography’s importance in its cultural, social, political and historical context.

• Create and execute professional level materials suitable for seeking opportunities in the photography field.

Program Requirements:

• A minimum grade of C- or higher is required for all minor required courses.

• Students are strongly encouraged to join ASMP (American Society of Media Photographers), the premier association dedicated to the advocacy of professional photographers.

• External Photography Competitions: Students are encouraged to enter two (2) external photography competitions.