The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.
The courses have been intentionally placed and should be prioritized in
the order
in which they appear. If you are unable to take all the courses in
a semester, you
should prioritize enrolling in the courses in the order below.
Some courses have
been noted as “Appropriate for Intersession” 
. Should you need (or want) to take
classes
in the summer and/or winter intersessions,
the program recommends these courses as appropriate for the condensed
schedule of
the intersessions.
Some pathways combine a “Certificate of Achievement” and an “Associate
Degree”. If
you are pursuing only the Certificate of Achievement, you are only
required to take
the courses marked “Program Requirement” 
.
All pathways include at least one “Gateway Course” 
which introduces you to the program and/or field of study and helps you
decide if you want to continue with this Academic and Career Path.
Most Associate degrees (though not Associate Degrees for Transfer)
require satisfying the SMC Global Citizenship requirement. If the Program
Requirements do not include a “Global Citizenship course” 
, be sure to select a General Education course that also satisfies Global Citizenship.
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.
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- 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.
Icon Key
-
Gateway Course
-
Program Requirement
-
General Education -
Appropriate for
Intersession
-
Available Online -
Global Citizenship
Semester 1
10 Units
This non-laboratory course is an introduction to digital photography including understanding the use of an interchangeable-lens camera, lenses and basic photographic equipment. The course will address creative considerations and aesthetic principles as they relate to composition, space, exposure, motion, light and color. Technological considerations, digital asset management, and editing software will be introduced.
NOTE: This course should be taken in the intersession prior to the first semester.
This introductory lab course prepares students for general specialization in photography. Black and white film exposure, development, and printing techniques are examined. Various shooting and printing assignments explore a variety of natural light situations and shooting challenges. Weekly lectures support practical application of assignments. Required for photography majors.
- Advisory: PHOTO 1
Introduction into non-traditional and historical photographic processes. Emphasis is placed primarily on non-silver techniques and processes, including the making of enlarged negatives. Processes may include cyanotype, Van Dyke, platinum/palladium and others
Offered only in Fall Term
- Advisory: PHOTO 2
Semester 2
3 Units
This course provides an introduction to color printing from negative materials. Students will produce "C" prints from a variety of color films using Dichromic enlargers, Ektaprint chemistry, and a roller transport machine processor. Simple problems, such as color balance, exposure choices, paper surfaces, and enlargement are addressed.
- Advisory: PHOTO 2
Semester 3
3 Units
Students will learn the zone system control of exposure and development of films, basic sensitometry, advanced printing techniques including bleaching and toning, use of multiple contrast filters, and archival preservation techniques.
- Advisory: PHOTO 2
Semester 4
4 Units
This course explores the genre of documentary photography while focusing on various communities in the Los Angeles area. Students will create an in-depth project and present a portfolio of photographs documenting the unique characteristics of individual communities in Los Angeles. Each semester will offer a unifying, rotating topic that may focus on specific neighborhoods, subcultures, or other appropriate themes. Lectures focus on historical photographic references and contemporary social issues. The importance and power of documentary photography are discussed and historical examples that have inspired change or shaped our perception of communities are explored. Students utilize large format cameras and film (in addition to their own digital cameras) as a way of better understanding historical processes in photography and nurturing a respect for the medium's alternative, non-commercial side.
- Advisory: PHOTO 2