Photography: Foundations

This is an introductory course in photography with an emphasis on learning and exploring the visual language of lens-based photographic imagery by analog means (images will be shot on film, hand processed by students and printed in the black and white darkroom) through a series of technical and creative darkroom assignments. Black and white film and chemical processes will be utilized in the creation of photographs. Students will gain an understanding of technical and creative control of both their camera and printing processes as well as conceptual practices associated with the medium of photography.

Students will receive an overview and hybrid of practice, history, appreciation, social and society uses, as well as critical inquiry. This course will instill a scholarly, visually-literate approach to the medium, its history, and its use in art making and do so through the attentive making of photographs. This is a hands-on studio art course that students will experience through a series of photographic projects that will allow them to explore their own photographic interests while gaining foundational skills. This is a beginning course that will position students to continue their studies of photography in intermediate and advanced courses.

This course will be taught in person. Attendance to all class sessions will be expected.