PHO 2 - Introduction to Photography

Transfer Status

CSU/UC

Unit(s)

3.00

• Lecture: 34.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/102.00 Total hours/2.00 Unit(s)
• Lab: 51.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/51.00 Total hours/1.00 Unit(s)
• Total: 85.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: This course is an introduction to the processes, principles, and tools of photography. Topics include the development of technical and aesthetic skills, elements of design and composition, camera technology, materials and equipment, black and white film, darkroom skills, and contemporary trends in photography.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Safely handle and maintain photographic equipment and materials.
2. Apply the elements and principles of design in finished photographs.
3. Create a portfolio of work demonstrating formal, conceptual, and technical development.
4. Produce photographs skillfully utilizing photographic tools, materials, and processes, including camera controls, image exposure, image processing, printing, and presentation.
5. Examine and describe historical and contemporary trends, language, aesthetics and emerging media in photography.
6. Analyze and describe the role of photography in contemporary culture and media.
7. Evaluate and critique photographic images utilizing relevant terminology and concepts.

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

Lab

1. Discussion
2. Field Trips
3. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
4. Instructor Demonstrations
5. Lecture
6. Reading Assignments

1. Portfolios
2. Homework
3. Lab Projects
4. Written Assignments
5. Examinations
6. Critiques/Discussion

Reading Assignments

1. Read the chapter on the camera and complete the "Parts of the Camera" worksheet by correctly labeling the 35mm and digital camera diagram. Use your camera as reference.
2. Read handout on the "Brief History of Photography" and select one photographer of interest to research. Write a short objective essay describing the photographer’s historical and personal context, and how this influenced the photographer's work.

Writing Assignments

1. Read about the philosophical questions concerning the nature of photography in your class text. In 2-3 pages discuss the difference between a static black and white image on paper (the photograph) and real life experience.
2. Listen to a student’s critique of your work and in 100-200 words write a response to the comments they made. Explain what you think about what was said and why.

Out-of-Class Assignments

1. Shoot three rolls of film of simple abstractions from everyday objects. Photograph a single plane using maximum depth-of-field. Do not record motion. Be prepared to give an oral critique of five of your best images based on the criteria in the class handout.
2. Select a digital or analog work to create a digital negative for cyanotype printing. Write a 2-3 page paper answering these questions: Will you use multimedia i.e. handcoloring or sculptural elements to enhance your cyanotype photograph? What is the expressive content of your work? How do your choices of image and materials convey meaning?

London, B. and Stone, J. (2018). Short Course in Photography: Digital. Pearson Publishing, 4th. 9780134525815.

Barnbaum, B. (2017). The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression. Rocky Nook Publishers, 2nd. 978-1681982106.

Photography (Masters Required)

Art (Masters Required)

Photo Tech/Commercial Photo