Photography, Fine Art Photography- Major #5224

Certificate of Achievement Program Map

The program map below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this path. It is always recommended that you meet with your pathway counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.


Students taking these classes will concentrate on the fine art of photography using various methods and processes with historical techniques as well as new forms.  Both film and digital technologies are used to develop the creative process and personal expression. 


Upon completion of the program, students will:
  1. 1. Utilize photography as a visual communication tool.
Effective Term: 2024 Fall Semester

Term 1

9 units

PHOTO 6
Digital Imaging Fundamentals

3 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
In this beginner-friendly photography course, the fundamentals of creating images with digital cameras will be explored. The significance of photography in our diverse society and its evolution over time will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on essential skills such as operating a digital camera manually, understanding light, and using visual elements to convey messages through photos. The focus is on expressing ideas creatively through photography. (A, CSU, UC)
Course Details:
      1. CSU Transfer

        PHOTO 12
        Beginning Photoshop

        3 units
        Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester

        In the Introduction to Photoshop course, students dive into a range of fun projects and lessons. They'll learn how to work with digital images, organize them neatly, adjust colors and tones, fix minor flaws, and print out their Photoshop creations! (A, CSU, UC)

        Course Details:
            1. CSU Transfer

              PHOTO 15
              Photography and Visual Literacy

              3 units
              Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
              This course explores the visual grammar and aesthetics of photography, highlighting its role as a universal communication and expression tool. Students will learn about photography's impact on arts and social history, develop visual literacy, and examine how images influence culture. The course covers methods for analyzing and critiquing photos using photographic and critical theory. Emphasizing writing and image creation, students will also learn to critically analyze images and conduct research. (A, CSU, UC)
              Course Details:
                  1. CSU Transfer

                    Term 2

                    6 units

                    PHOTO 17
                    Classic Black and White Photography

                    3 units
                    Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
                    In this class, students will explore the theories and practices of traditional 35mm and 4x5 black and white film photography. They'll learn how to use manual camera controls and accessories creatively, develop film, print photos, and present them professionally. Additionally, the legal and ethical aspects of photography will be discussed. Throughout the course, students will work on projects that focus on making photos aesthetically pleasing and solving photographic challenges using class information. (A, CSU, UC)
                    Course Details:
                    1. Advisory: PHOTO 6
                      1. CSU Transfer

                        Typically offered in the spring semester. 

                        PHOTO 23
                        Advanced Photoshop

                        3 units
                        Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
                        In this advanced Photoshop course, students will learn advanced techniques for enhancing still photographs using computer software. This course will explore how to capture, process, and output images using the latest technologies. Adobe Photoshop will be the main tool for completing real-world assignments and creating a portfolio of digital photography. (A, CSU, UC)
                        Course Details:
                        1. Prerequisite: PHOTO 12
                        2. Prerequisite: GRC 31
                          1. CSU Transfer

                            Typically offered in the spring semester 

                            Term 3

                            6 units

                            PHOTO 18
                            Advanced Black and White Photography

                            3 units
                            Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
                            In this advanced black-and-white photography course, students will explore different ways of capturing reality through both film and digital black-and-white photography. They'll also get hands-on experience using Adobe Photoshop and other software for various projects. Throughout the course, there's a strong focus on students developing their unique vision, understanding the language of photography, and mastering the techniques needed to create stunning black-and-white prints. (A, CSU, UC)
                            Course Details:
                            1. Prerequisite: PHOTO 12
                            2. Prerequisite: PHOTO 17

                                  Typically offered in the fall semester. 

                                  PHOTO 57
                                  Applied Color and Alternative Photographic Media

                                  3 units
                                  Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
                                  In this course, students will explore and refine their personal artistic vision through hands-on exploration of digital media. A variety of techniques and tools will be used to create photographic images that reflect individual style and perspective. From traditional to experimental approaches, contemporary digital processes will be employed to produce both representational and abstract images. Additionally, color theory and management in photography, and its connection to alternative media, will be explored to aid in achieving artistic goals. (A, CSU, UC)
                                  Course Details:
                                  1. Prerequisite: PHOTO 12
                                  2. Prerequisite: GRC 31
                                  3. Advisory: PHOTO 23
                                    1. CSU Transfer

                                      Typically offered in the fall semester 

                                      Total: 21 units