ARTS 103 Appreciation and History of Photography

This course is an introduction to the art and expression of photography through the history of photography, lecture, photography assignments, critique, discussion, photography exhibition field trip and analysis and video analysis. Students will complete photo assignments tied to major themes of the course using simple cameras, digital software and/or commercially processed film. Emphasis will be placed on a wide range of genres, visual literacy and important photographers and their work from 1839 to the present. The course follows a step-by-step progression beginning with larger theoretical concerns about the nature of photographs and how to read them and progresses from a discussion of specific genres, eras, and styles to material about specific photographers, their work and contributions to the world of images and visual arts.

Credits

3 Credits

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

Semester Contact Hours Lab

0

Semester Contact Hours Clinical

0

General Education Competency

GEM Humanistic and Artistic Ways of Knowing

ARTS 103Appreciation and History of Photography

Please note: This is not a course syllabus. A course syllabus is unique to a particular section of a course by instructor. This curriculum guide provides general information about a course.

I. General Information

Department

Art

II. Course Specification

Course Type

General Education

General Education Competency

GEM Humanistic and Artistic Ways of Knowing

Credit Hours Narrative

3 Credits

Semester Contact Hours Lecture

45

Semester Contact Hours Lab

0

Semester Contact Hours Clinical

0

Grading Method

Letter

Repeatable

N

III. Catalog Course Description

This course is an introduction to the art and expression of photography through the history of photography, lecture, photography assignments, critique, discussion, photography exhibition field trip and analysis and video analysis. Students will complete photo assignments tied to major themes of the course using simple cameras, digital software and/or commercially processed film. Emphasis will be placed on a wide range of genres, visual literacy and important photographers and their work from 1839 to the present. The course follows a step-by-step progression beginning with larger theoretical concerns about the nature of photographs and how to read them and progresses from a discussion of specific genres, eras, and styles to material about specific photographers, their work and contributions to the world of images and visual arts.

IV. Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

  • Exhibit a foundation in the visual communication language: explain what a photograph is, read a photograph, and explain the social and political implications of photography
  • Exhibit foundational knowledge in the history of photography: identify key photographers; explain their contributions to social change and cultural identity
  • Make informed photographic images via cell phones and/or other contemporary means, and application of this knowledge-based understanding through various software slide show formats to the class

V. Topical Outline (Course Content)

The history and culture of photography Individuals who defined the photographic medium (and why), through lecture, text, video, and photo exhibition field trip Application of learned knowledge in creative photographic works toward projects

VI. Delivery Methodologies

Required Assignments

Portfolio of two photography projects Four quizzes Final paper Video analysis

Required Exams

Final paper Critiques on individual creative projects, in-class discussions

Required Text

Textbook required: The Photograph (by Graham Clarke), instructor-provided external essays

Specific Course Activity Assignment or Assessment Requirements

Portfolio of two photography projects Four quizzes Final paper Video analysis Final paper Critiques on individual creative projects, in-class discussions