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.
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
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
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