Year one builds a solid foundation The first year of the Professional Photography Program establishes a solid foundation in photographic craft and visual communications in contemporary (digital) and traditional (film) technologies. This year emphasizes mastery of basic technical skills and the underlying principles of black & white and color photography through proper metering and exposure methods, image capture and final image output in both digital and analog formats. As you progress technically, the program structure enables you to explore design concepts and develop your ability to convey ideas in a solid and exciting visual language. While emphasis is on current digital technologies, NESOP incorporates film into its first-year curriculum as a unique teaching and learning tool. Working with film breaks down the image-making process, requiring students to slow down and engage in the practice of bringing their images to perfection from print to print. This valuable practice strengthens their skills and supports the students' understanding of the digital process, ultimately augmenting their ability to use the full range of digital imaging tools available. From capture to process to output and from black & white to color photography, year one ensures the solid formation of the technical and aesthetic skills necessary for success in the advanced specialization areas during the second year. TERM 1
Introduction to Digital Capture :: 6 units
This course introduces students to the digital SLR camera, one of the most vital tools for the professional photographer. Beginning with general camera controls (i.e., f-stops, shutter speeds and ISO) and progressing into functions specific to the digital camera (white balance and histogram), students learn to capture the best digital image possible. With an emphasis on mastering basic technical skills, understanding digital technology and building a photographic vocabulary, this course serves as the base of our students’ photographic education. Weekly assignments reinforce technical skills and encourage aesthetic development. Digital Workflow I :: 4 units
Working in tandem with the Introduction to Digital Capture class, this course helps students develop an organizational structure and learn to efficiently process their digital images. Methods for archiving and backing up files teach students to stay organized and keep their image files safe; essential habits for professional photographers. Batch processing, creating contact sheets and making adjustments for color and contrast correction teach students to effectively prepare and process images for output. Photographic Art and Design :: 6 units
This course shifts the emphasis from technical skill to the visual aspects of image making that transform a photograph from a simple picture to a powerful visual communication tool. Through visiting galleries and museums, viewing films and analyzing photographs in class, students learn to identify the elements that allow images to communicate and develop a language to critique work. Students break down photographs to their core compositional elements and gain a greater understanding of how to employ these visual components in the creation of their own work. Weekly assignments encourage students to utilize different compositional elements in their image making and explore ways to communicate visually. History of Photography :: 2 units
Understanding the technical and aesthetic development of photography is essential to a complete photographic education. In this course, students examine major figures, movements, techniques, contributions and breakthroughs within the field, in holistic context. Lectures and discussions, demonstrations and handling of historical photographic objects involve students in learning about the history of this profession. Outside reading and photographic research assignments supplement lecture and class content. TERM 2
Intermediate Digital Capture :: 6 units
Building on the Introduction to Digital Capture class, this course expands on digital SLR functions, allowing students to improve their image making skills. Using on and off-camera flashes, reflectors and other lighting modifiers, students explore ways to integrate and control light in their photographs. Students learn professional lighting skills, the ability to identify and manipulate the direction and quality of light and advanced exposure and metering methods. Digital Workflow II :: 4 units
In this course, students continue to develop their workflow skills using advanced methods for preparing and processing digital files. The power to edit, adjust, create and manipulate images is discovered by students as they are introduced to the essential photographer’s tool, Adobe Photoshop. Hands-on, experiential learning is emphasized as students explore the valuable tools within this software, and weekly assignments allow students to unleash the creative possibilities within their photographs. Effective and efficient printing skills and scanning methods are also introduced. The Art of Black & White Photography :: 6 units
This film-based, multi-format course brings students into the traditional darkroom to explore the black & white photographic medium. Different film development techniques and printing skills illustrate the creative possibilities in this traditional method of photography. The Zone System, an advanced method of film exposure and development, is explored and the 4 X 5 view camera is introduced to highlight the unique camera movements that large format photography offers. Through weekly lectures involving historical and contemporary black & white photographs, students gain a greater understanding of this powerful medium. Basic Principles of Business for Photographers :: 2 units
Understanding and knowing how to manage the business of photography is as important as knowing how to make a good image. This course introduces students to the basic business practices within professional photography. Working with clients, basic management and marketing as well as legal issues, such as copyright law, are discussed. Students are exposed to basic business software for developing spreadsheets, business documents and digital marketing presentations. The importance of developing professional business practices is emphasized throughout this course. TERM 3
Advanced Digital Capture :: 6 units
This course focuses on advanced electronic flash and lighting techniques applicable in contemporary digital photography. Assignments encourage aesthetic development and exploration. Students work with mixed lighting sources, analyze color temperature and explore off-camera light while developing a body of work to present in portfolio form. Exploring Studio Lighting :: 6 units
Beginning with tungsten “hot“ lights and progressing to studio strobe lights, students work toward mastering control of light in their image making. Using their digital SLR cameras tethered to computers and hand-held light meters, students develop advanced skills to read light, modify artificial light and capture perfect exposures. From portraits to still-life displays, students discover the endless creative possibilities of studio photography. The Color Experience :: 4 units
In this course, students are immersed in the world of color photography. Through color printing, lectures on color theory and weekly analysis of historical and contemporary color photographs, students learn to “see” color and use it effectively in their photographs. Working extensively with traditional chromogenic print processes in the color darkroom, students master color balance and density control in their color prints. Course lectures provide a deeper understanding of color as a medium and weekly assignments offer opportunities to explore the full creative potential of color photography. Practical Business and Marketing for Photographers :: 2 units
This course focuses on target marketing and business strategies for specific areas of professional photography: advertising, editorial, fashion, portraiture and the fine arts. Through course lectures and expert guest speakers, students gain detailed insight into the business and marketing skills required to succeed in these specialized areas of photography. Additional topics include portfolio development, résumé writing and interviewing techniques, website design and self-promotion.
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