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The Photography program teaches the dynamics of visual communication to illustrate ideas, record events, articulate stories, express moods, sell products, and interpret a person’s character. Courses stress technical knowledge, proficiency in camera control, digital and analog capture methods, artificial light control, and image manipulation. This program prepares students for careers in photography-related genres, including advertising photography, food photography, architectural photography, editorial photography, portrait photography, fashion photography, and photojournalism.

For additional career possibilities, visit the Career Services Center on the main campus to utilize computerized career information systems and other valuable career resources.

SMC has articulation agreements in place with several 4-year institutions.  Students planning to transfer should complete the lower-division major requirements and the general education pattern for the institution to which they intend to transfer.

High school students in the 11th and 12th grades may begin this program concurrently with their high school program if approved by the high school principal.

Information regarding the Photography program is available on the Photography Department’s website and by calling the Photography Department at 310-434-3547.

Photography, Associate Degree or Certificate of Achievement

Program Learning Outcomes: Students completing the program in Photography will analyze and assess photographic situations and solve technical problems and creative challenges as they arise in a photographic production. Students will design and construct photographic images that can communicate ideas or narratives effectively for commercial, editorial, or fine art purposes. Additionally, students will also have the knowledge and skills pertinent to the successful operation of a freelance photography business and sound business practices in the trade.

Area of Emphasis: (38 units)

Required Courses: (33 units)

PHOTO 1,Introduction to Photography(3)
PHOTO 2,Basic Black and White Darkroom Techniques(2)
PHOTO 5,Digital Asset Management, Modification, and Output(3)
PHOTO 30,Techniques of Lighting: Introduction(4)
PHOTO 32,Lighting for People 2(4)
PHOTO 33,Lighting for Products(4)
PHOTO 34,Capture to Composite(4)
PHOTO 39,Beginning Photoshop(3)
PHOTO 43,Portfolio Development(3)
PHOTO 60,Business Practices in Photography(3)
Restricted Electives: Choose 5 units from the following courses:
PHOTO 7,Advanced Portfolio Development (same as JOURN 21)(3)
PHOTO 13,News Photography (same as JOURN 21)(3)
PHOTO 14,Photography for Publication (same as JOURN 22)(3)
PHOTO 21,Alternative Photographic Processes(3)
PHOTO 29,Video Production for Still Photographers(3)
PHOTO 37,Advanced Black and White Printing Techniques(3)
PHOTO 42,Advanced Photoshop(3)
PHOTO 50,Basic Color Printing(3)
PHOTO 52,History of Photography (same as AHIS 52)(3)
PHOTO 64,Community Documentary Photography(4)
PHOTO 70,Intro to Video for Photographers(3)
PHOTO 71,Intro to Video Editing for Photographers(3)
PHOTO 72,Video for Commercial Photographers(3)
PHOTO 88A,Independent Studies in Photography(1)
PHOTO 88B,Independent Studies in Photography(2)
PHOTO 88C,Independent Studies in Photography(3)
PHOTO 90A,Photography Internship(1)
PHOTO 90B,Photography Internship(2)
PHOTO 90C,Photography Internship(3)
PHOTO 90D,Photography Internship(4)

Analog Photography, Certificate of Achievement

This certificate program cultivates the skills learned in a variety of analog courses within the Photography Department. Coursework focuses on artisanal photographic techniques with emphasis on skills necessary for transferring to a 4- year programs of study in the arts, and qualifies students for employment in custom photography labs, running a wet darkroom, and to work for professional fine artists. Students will learn the characteristics of shooting/processing film, make custom prints in traditional color and B&W darkrooms, learn to use large format cameras, and experiment with non-silver alternative processes. 

Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this program, students will demonstrate the ability to master basic techniques in analog photography, successfully execute an image previsualized in their mind, subjectively critique their own work along with their peers', and articulate intentions and purpose when making art.

Area of Emphasis: (15 units)

Required Courses: (15 units)

PHOTO 2,Basic Black and White Darkroom Techniques(2)
PHOTO 21,Alternative Photographic Processes(3)
PHOTO 37,Advanced Black and White Printing Techniques(3)
PHOTO 50,Basic Color Printing(3)
PHOTO 64,Community Documentary Photography(4)

Digital Technician, Certificate of Achievement

 This certificate prepares students for entry-level employment as a Digital Technician in photography. Coursework provides training in photo editing using industry standard software on macOS as well as tethered shooting in both a studio environment and on location. This includes retouching for beauty and commercial photography applications, image compositing, thorough color management, on-set asset management, and an overview of studio lighting. Students will also gain an understanding of industry trends, workplace demands, studio safety protocols, software troubleshooting, and expected professional etiquette. 

Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate a high level of proficiency in a color-managed tethered capture workflow using digital asset management software. Students will also demonstrate advanced compositing and retouching techniques using industry standard software. Students completing the program will gain confidence in using the DSLR camera, using strobe and continuous lighting, studio safety, and working in a fast-paced collaborative environment.

Area of Emphasis: (17 units)

Required Courses: (17 units)

PHOTO 5,Digital Asset Management, Modification, and Output(3)
PHOTO 30,Techniques of Lighting: Introduction(4)
PHOTO 34,Capture to Composite(4)
PHOTO 39,Beginning Photoshop(3)
PHOTO 42,Advanced Photoshop(3)

Photographer’s Assistant, Certificate of Achievement

Upon completion of this certificate students will have received  hands-on instruction in the use of digital cameras, electronic strobe equipment and lighting techniques as applied to photography in a professional studio setting. Includes a foundation in image editing software, studio safety, on-set etiquette, lighting concepts and effective use of photography grip equipment. Students completing this certificate program will have the skills, knowledge, training and discipline necessary to apply for employment as a photo assistant in the fields of commercial photography, product photography, portrait photography, event and fashion photography, food photography, and entry-level positions in medical and forensic photography.

Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this certificate, students will demonstrate skill in the control of studio and location lighting techniques utilizing continuous light, strobe and mixed lighting situations as well as demonstrating the necessary skills to work accurately, efficiently and safely in a studio or location environment. In addition, students will demonstrate a proficiency in operating digital cameras and will demonstrate skills in the digital workflow using Adobe Lightroom and Capture One software.

Area of Emphasis: (18 units)

Required Courses: (18 units)

PHOTO 1,Introduction to Photography(3)
PHOTO 5,Digital Asset Management, Modification, and Output(3)
PHOTO 30,Techniques of Lighting: Introduction(4)
PHOTO 32,Lighting for People 2(4)
PHOTO 34,Capture to Composite(4)