Overview

The Applied Photography Certificate Program offers students a multitude of opportunities for creative, technical, and professional development in the medium. The curriculum serves photographers at all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and with varying interests, from fine art to photojournalism to commercial applications. Professional development is an important facet of the curriculum, preparing imagemakers for rewarding careers as freelance photographers, photojournalists, studio assistants, practicing artists, and more.

In each class, students are introduced to essential photographic techniques needed to create a dynamic portfolio. The 16-credit certificate program provides a foundation in both digital and analog camera technology, darkroom printing, archival practices, editing workflows, asset management, inkjet printing, studio lighting, photographic history, and concept development. Professional practices, such as networking, collaborating with clients, and project management, are also addressed.

The certificate program is further augmented by the Visiting Photographer Program, which features career presentations, professional practices workshops, and one-on-one portfolio reviews given by expert photographers working in the field today.

Questions? E-mail Applied Photography Certificate Coordinator Nick Simko at nsimko@santarosa.edu.

To learn more about Career Education at Santa Rosa Junior College, please click here.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:

1. Make decisions that optimize conceptual impact of created images
2. Solve creative and technical problems that include project criteria and client expectations
3. Demonstrate full knowledge of single-lens reflex (SLR) & digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) components, medium format, and view camera, as well as exposure controls and light meters
4. Demonstrate mastery of indoor and outdoor lighting, studio lighting techniques, and mixed lighting situations
5. Demonstrate knowledge and skill of digital imaging skills consistent with industry standards
6. Create and present professional level work and a professional portfolio and business plan to meet industry standards

Suggested course sequence

Please note that classes are 3 units and in-person except where noted.

Semester 1 – Fall (Choose 2):
Art 19 Beginning Photography Black and White Darkroom
Art 53 Exhibition Design and Management
Art 60 Studio Photography (Fall semester only)
Art 82 Beginning Digital Photography (offered both in-person and online)

Semester 2 – Spring (Choose 2):
Art 19 Beginning Photography Black and White Darkroom
Art 21* Intermediate Photography
Art 82 Beginning Digital Photography (offered both in-person and online)
Art 83* Intermediate Digital Photography (offered both in-person and online)
Jour 59 Photojournalism (Spring semester only)

Semester 3 – Fall (Choose 3):
Art 22* Advanced Photography
Art 53 Exhibition Design and Management (1 unit course)
Art 60 Studio Photography (Fall semester only)
Art 83* Intermediate Digital Photography (offered both in-person and online)

*Has prerequisite