# Photography (Associate of Arts Degree)

San Diego City College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Photography

Source: https://sdccd.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/15604/15944/15945/15605/15710

### Summary

The Associate of Arts in Photography provides students with a strong foundation in concepts, techniques, and aesthetics in both digital and darkroom photography. The degree emphasizes hands-on experiences in studios and labs, allowing students to create meaningful bodies of photographic work while being taught and mentored by instructors who are industry professionals. The primary goal of this award is to prepare students to enter the field of photography as a professional, but can prepare students for transfer to a four-year program.

**Award Note:**
The Associate Degree requires a minimum of 60 degree applicable semester units.

**Learning Outcome(s): Students who complete the Photography Program will be able to:**

1.  Demonstrate competent use of reciprocal exposures utilizing shutter speeds and apertures.
2.  Utilize compositional elements in the creation of original photographs in various formats.
3.  Develop black and white film and make gelatin silver prints in a traditional darkroom.
4.  Utilize Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop in digital color correction and image manipulation.
5.  Demonstrate an understanding of the history of photography and the role of photographs in today's society.
6.  Illustrate abilities in various professional presentation techniques utilizing archival mounting and matting materials.
7.  Apply theories and principles of photographic light and lighting control for both film and digital capture.
8.  Create a marketing plan and business materials such as letterhead and business cards.
9.  Produce professional quality, color-corrected photographs utilizing archival pigment and chromogenic materials.
10.  Produce professional portfolios suitable for sharing with potential clients or grad-school entrance.

### Requirements

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **COURSES REQUIRED FOR THE MAJOR:** | | 24 |
| PHOT 100 | Introduction to Darkroom Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 135 | Intermediate Darkroom Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 143 | Introduction to Digital Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 144 | Photographic Lighting Techniques | 3 |
| PHOT 150 | History of Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 170 | Business and Marketing for Photographers | 3 |
| PHOT 268 | Photographic Portfolio | 3 |
| PHOT 181 | Photo Editing: Lightroom and Photoshop | 3 |
| **Select two courses (6 units) from the following:** | | 6 |
| PHOT 205 | Travel Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 215 | Photojournalism and Documentary Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 220 | Portrait and Fashion Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 230 | Advertising and Product Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 235 | Advanced Darkroom Techniques | 3 |
| PHOT 245 | Landscape and Nature Photography | 3 |
| PHOT 255 | Wedding and Event Photography | 3 |