Photography PHOT

7 courses · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog

Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027

PHOT-10A Introduction to Photography

Units
3
Hours
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
Transfers to
CSU, UC

Introduction to Photography covers camera and darkroom principles of black and white photography. Topics include current aesthetic trends and compositional elements, image capture techniques, exposure control, film developing, contact prints, enlargements, lighting, filters, print finishing and photo mounting. (03/19)

Offered: Fall 2026 (2 sections) · Spring 2027 (2 sections)

PHOT-10B Intermediate Photography

Units
3
Hours
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
Prerequisite
PHOT-10A or PHOT-11A
Advisory
AOM-50C
Transfers to
CSU, UC

This course deals with the aesthetic underpinnings and practical application of intermediate photographic principles relevant to film and digital cameras. The course emphasizes technical and compositional control and the perfection of image processing. Broad-based professional studio lighting practices factor into the course. (03/19)

Not on the Fall 2026, Spring 2027 schedules.

PHOT-11A Introduction to the Digital Camera

Units
3
Hours
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
Advisory
AOM-50C
Transfers to
CSU, UC

This course introduces students to the creative use of digital cameras through lectures, hands-on experience and computer use. Instruction includes digital camera functions, technical and creative control, computer processing of images, and digital output options. Students gain essential knowledge of digital photographic strategies through image capture and creative Photoshop and Lightroom manipulation. (03/19)

Offered: Fall 2026 (1 section)

PHOT-33 The History of Photography

Units
3
Hours
3 hours lecture
Advisory
ENGL-C1000 (Formerly ENGL-01A)
Transfers to
CSU, UC

(Cal-GETC area 3A)

(CSU breadth area C1) (IGETC area 3A) [CSU-GE and IGETC are only for 2024-25 catalogs or earlier]

This historical survey course covers image capture techniques from the camera obscura through current digital technologies. The artistic significance and broad social implications of photography provide an underlying basis for critical analysis. The course includes lecture and discussion components coupled with visual presentations. (03/19)

Offered: Fall 2026 (1 section) · Spring 2027 (1 section)

PHOT-35 Studio Careers in Photography

Units
3
Hours
2 hour lecture, 3 hours lab
Prerequisite
PHOT-11A
Transfers to
CSU

This course covers advanced studio lighting through black and white and color assignments. Students become acquainted with commercial equipment and image processing related to portraiture, weddings, fashion, product, and fine art photography. Assignments emphasize concept development, lighting, location work, and small and large products. Design and layout may be incorporated into specialized portfolio pieces. (05/22)

Offered: Spring 2027 (1 section)

PHOT-36 Photo Portfolio Expressions

Units
3
Hours
2 hour lecture, 3 hours lab
Prerequisite
PHOT-10A or PHOT-11A
Transfers to
CSU

(CSU breadth area C1) [CSU-GE and IGETC are only for 2024-25 catalogs or earlier]

This course explores the possibilities of visual language in-relation to photographic self-promotion. Advanced camera techniques, film handling, digital methodology, professional portfolio construction and printing formats suggest the emphasis on personal expression and a marketable skill set. (05/22)

Not on the Fall 2026, Spring 2027 schedules.

PHOT-49 Independent Study in Photography

Units
1
Hours
3 hours lab
Prerequisite
PHOT-10A or PHOT-11A
Advisory
AOM-50C
Transfers to
CSU

This course covers a variety of topics and/or activities of current interest in the field of photography. The student chooses the topic(s) of study for the semester. (12/22)

Not on the Fall 2026, Spring 2027 schedules.

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