About This Course

In this first course, we'll cover a range of photography topics, including history, contemporary practices, artistry and techniques. This course blends those key ingredients of photography with review and feedback sessions, student presentations and discussions with professionals in class to help you advance your photography skills and pursuits. We’ll spend our time in the following four areas of focus:

Technical: Learn how to get the most out of your camera and explore lighting techniques. In an early tune-up session, you’ll have the opportunity to improve your technical competence with camera settings. We'll evaluate the pros and cons of different setups during an evening on lighting.

Design: Develop your visual literacy for creating the most compelling images and learn the principles of composition through assignments in live and asynchronous feedback sessions, including with visiting photography professionals.

History: Explore the evolution of photography over the past 200 years and discover how photography today is shaped by all that has come before. 

Business: Learn how to merchandise, exhibit, license and price your work with an emphasis on how to select for final presentation in the marketplace. Guest photography professionals will discuss career transitions and future business opportunities, all aimed at giving you insights into business practices and emerging trends.

Past guests have included:

Sally Brjonsen, representative for photographers, photo stylists and post-production experts
Eva Blanchard, fine art and commercial portrait photographer and editing guru
Amy Gulick, advocate, book author and founding fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers
Aaron Huey, assignment photographer for National Geographic magazine and new media artist
Rozarii Lynch, assignment and fine art photographer at Rozarii Photography
Pete Templin, headshot, portrait and event photographer specializing in lighting
Tom Wear, stock photography and photography business consultant
Nancy Wing, studio art director and photo stylist

What You'll Learn

Insights into the rich history of photography that helps shape all photography today
Technical skills with your camera and how to employ lighting most effectively
How to write an artist statement and how to give and receive feedback on photographs
Visual literacy skills and how to develop a professional portfolio of impactful photographs that will serve you long after the program is over
How to approach clients, including publishers and exhibit venues, and explore additional opportunities for a possible career in photography, part- or full-time