Photography
31 courses · Solano Community College · 2025-2026 Catalog
Classes: Spring 2026
PHOT 029 Introduction to Photography
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A comprehensive, hands-on introduction to photography, including camera operations, composition, concept, using photo software. Historical and contemporary photographers and genres will also be explored, including attention to issues of race and representation in the field of photography. The course will focus on digital cameras and processes, but there will be some content on film photography. This course is a prerequisite to the courses in the professional photography program. A DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera, or a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses, is required. Department has some cameras for loan to students who cannot supply their own camera. On campus students will have access to the digital lab.
PHOT 030A Black and White Darkroom Photography: Beginning
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 80 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A hands-on introduction to black and white film photography, including 35mm film camera operation, exposure and controls, composition and history. Darkroom techniques, and the safe and effective use of materials and equipment will be emphasized. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in photography.
PHOT 030B Black and White Darkroom Photography: Intermediate
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 80 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 030A (Black and White Darkroom Photography: Beginning) Outcomes Utilize, correctly, the controls on an analog film camera - including manual exposure calculations - and demonstrate proper and safe use of the chemical darkroom to produce well-crafted silver gelatin prints.Outcomes Apply the principles of design and the use of light to produce photographs that demonstrate effective framing and visualization.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Students in the course will deepen their understanding of the photographic process and refine their skills in the traditional darkroom in order to create impactful and expressive prints. Topics will include next-level film development and printing techniques. Learn how to create a cohesive portfolio of prints that express their personal vision. Issues of equity and representation will be covered.
PHOT 031 Photography Concepts and Projects
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An intermediate course, expanding on the skills and concepts student explored in Introduction to Photography. Students will complete several projects designed to further their understanding of visual language and personal expression, as well as refine their technical skills. Historical and contemporary photographers, genres and trends will be presented, with attention to women and people of color, as well as issues of race and representation.
PHOT 032 Introduction to Digital Imaging for Photographers
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An in-depth exploration of the development of digital photographs, including the use of industry standard software (Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Photoshop) to catalog, optimize and transform digital photographs. This class is intended for photographers and will cover best practices from camera to print. History and ethical issues will also be covered. Students will complete projects that emphasize their own personal vision and creativity. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department has some cameras for short term loan for students who have difficulty acquiring their own. All students will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud and computers are available to loan to online students who cannot provide their own. (Formerly PHOT 071)
PHOT 033 Intermediate Digital Imaging for Photographers
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 032 (Digital Imaging)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A continued exploration of the development of digital photographs, including the use of industry standard software (Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Photoshop). Students will refine their skills and learn advanced tools, as well as create a portfolio of work related to their particular interests as a photographer with a continued emphasis on ethics and concept. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department has some cameras for short term loan for students who have difficulty acquiring their own. All students will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud and computers are available to loan to online students who cannot provide their own.
PHOT 035 Art of Photography
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3 hours lecture weekly, 54 contact hours total
- Advisory
- ARTH 031 (Modern Art)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is an introduction to photography and visual literacy through a survey of historical and contemporary movements and photographers. Students will complete photo assignments related to course content to deepen their understanding of the concepts. Attention will be paid to issues of racism, representation, ethnicity and national origins, gender and gender identity that exist in both past and current practice of photography. Camera equipment is not provided by the college. Students registering for this class may use any film or digital camera to complete assignments. Access to a film or digital camera is required to complete some assignments. Any camera is acceptable. Field trips may be required.
PHOT 040 Alternative Photography
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
An exploration of a range of alternative approaches to photography, including historical processes such as cyanotype and Van Dyke, as well as collage, transfer, alternative digital printing techniques. Emphasis will be placed on creative exploration of the possibilities of photography beyond the traditional photo print. Attention will be paid to race and representation in historical and contemporary practices. Students will have access to the darkroom, equipment and labs for completing most projects. Film cameras and some digital cameras are available for loan to students who cannot provide their own.
PHOT 045 Introduction to Filmmaking for Photographers
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Advisory
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduction to digital filmmaking as an artistic medium through lecture, demonstration, screenings, and hands-on practice. Students will develop skills in pre-production planning, cinematography, sound recording, art direction, post-production, and critical analysis through the creation of their own film projects. Discussions and screenings will cover historic and contemporary filmmakers and their work, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity and ethics in the film industry. Digital video camera. The department has a limited number of cameras to loan for those that cannot provide their own. Online and hybrid classes require access to a computer that can run Adobe Creative Cloud programs. Software is available through Solano and there are a small number of computers for loan to students who cannot supply their own.
PHOT 046 Intermediate Filmmaking for Photographers
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 045 (Introduction to Filmmaking for Photographers)
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A continued exploration of digital filmmaking as an artistic medium through lecture, demonstration, screenings, and hands-on practice. This course explores practical applications of filmmaking in professional photography practices, including filmic projects, social media, marketing, and online formats. Students will continue to develop and refine their skills in pre-production planning, cinematography, sound recording, art direction, post-production, and critical analysis through the creation of their own film projects. Discussions and screenings will cover contemporary content creators and their work, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity and ethics in the film industry. Digital video camera. The department has a limited number of cameras to loan for those that cannot provide their own. Online and hybrid classes require access to a computer that can run Adobe Creative Cloud programs. Software is available through Solano and there are a small number of computers for loan to students who cannot supply their own.
PHOT 056 Photojournalism and Documentary Photography
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- JOUR 160
An introduction to documentary photography and photojournalism focusing on theory and practice in press and publications photography, with emphasis on using the camera as a reporting and communications tool. Students will explore the range of possibilities in this genre, including the photographic essay, news, and feature photography. History and contemporary practice will be covered, with special attention to ethics, and issues of race and representation. DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable camera is required. Computer access is required for online courses. The photo department has some cameras and laptops to loan to students who cannot provide their own.
PHOT 151 Professional Photography: Genres and Studio Practices
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
Designed for students who are considering a career in photography. Students will explore the main genres of professional photography, including portraiture, fashion, still life and product, documentary, and fine art. The course includes a solid introduction to studio lighting using professional equipment. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in the field of photography.DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable digital camera required. Computer required for online course.The department has some cameras and laptops to loan for students who cannot provide their own. On campus students will have access to the lighting studio and digital lab. All students will be able to check out professional lighting equipment for assignments.
PHOT 152 Professional Photography: Portraiture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
Explores all areas of portrait photography, including fine art, publication, and retail. Covers technical and aesthetic aspects of portraiture, including lighting and framing, but also historical and contemporary portrait photography. Attention will be paid to issues of racism, representation, and the power structures that exist in both past and current practice of portrait photography. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department has a limited number of cameras to loan for those that cannot provide their own. Field trips may be required, but students will be offered comparable options if unable to attend.
PHOT 153 Professional Photography: Product, Advertising and Editorial
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
Explore the camera and lighting techniques used to create photographs of products, and other subjects including food, product, clothing and accessories, and lifestyle, with an emphasis on the advertising and editorial markets. Students will learn about both historical and contemporary practitioners, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity, race and representation in the photo and advertising industries. Students will also learn about professional practices and industry opportunities. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. A very limited number of cameras are available to loan for students who cannot provide their own. Field trips may be required but students will have options if they are unable to attend.
PHOT 154 Professional Photography: Interior and Exterior
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
Explore architectural photography, including the skills needed to produce photographs of both the exterior and the interior of structures, including perspective, specialty cameras and lenses, and post-production. Students will learn about both historical and contemporary practitioners, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity and ethics in the profession of architectural photography. Students will also learn about professional practices and industry opportunities. Digital SLR or comparable camera. Field trips will be part of the course for hybrid and on campus classes. Online and hybrid classes require access to a computer that can run Adobe Creative Cloud programs. Software is available through Solano and there are a small number of computer for loan to students who cannot supply their own.
PHOT 156 Portfolio Development
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 151 (Professional Photography: Genres and Studio Practices) and PHOT 152 (Professional Photography: Portraiture) or PHOT 153 (Professional Photography: Product, Advertising and Editorial) or PHOT 154 (Professional Photography: Interior and Exterior)
Advanced students create a professional photography portfolio and website in preparation for personal career goals. Emphasis is placed on individual direction and personal goals. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in the professional photography world. DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable camera required. Online students will need computer access. On campus students will have access to the studio and lab. All students will be able to check out a range of photographic equipment to help complete coursework, including special lenses and lighting equipment.
PHOT 158 Photo Illustration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 032 or DMA 010 (Graphic Design I)
Students learn how to successfully use photography and graphic design together. Students use original photos and advanced compositing, layering, text, and design to create a portfolio of photo illustrations suitable for editorial, commercial, or fine art applications. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in the photography and graphic design fields. Student will need a DSLR, mirrorless or comparable camera. Online students will need access to a computer that can run photo and illustration software. On campus students will have access to the digital lab. The photo department has some equipment to loan students who are unable to provide their own.
PHOT 159 Portfolio Development - Photo Illustration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 158 (Photo Illustration)
Students use original photos and advanced compositing, layering, text, and design to create a portfolio of photo illustrations suitable for editorial, commercial, or fine art applications. Emphasis is placed on individual direction and personal goals. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in the photography and graphic design fields.
PHOT 161 Workshop: Camera Intensive
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture weekly, 1 hours lab weekly, 36 contact hours total
A short course on understanding and using a DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable digital camera. Students will learn how to determine and set exposure settings manually, as well as use a wide range of camera features, including focus modes and lens options. While the course is designed for beginners, students with some experience will have the opportunity to refine and advance their skills. A basic introduction to software and printing will also be included. A DSLR, mirrorless or comparable camera is required. Department has some cameras for loan to students who cannot supply their own camera.
PHOT 162 Workshop: Portraiture Intensive
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture weekly, 1 hours lab weekly, 36 contact hours total
This short course will cover special areas of portrait photography, including interacting with subjects, posing and options for lighting. While the course is designed for beginners, students with more experience will have the opportunity to advance and refine their skills. Issues of race and representation will also be addressed. DSLR, mirrorless or comparable camera is required. Department has some cameras for loan to students who cannot supply their own camera.
PHOT 163 Landscape and Nature Photography
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture weekly, 1 hours lab weekly, 36 contact hours total
- Advisory
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
A short, hands-on course exploring strategies and techniques for making strong, evocative landscape and nature photographs. Techniques and equipment, composition and light, and historical and contemporary practice will be covered, as well as issues of race and representation in the genre of nature and landscape photography. Previous camera experience recommended. DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable camera is required. Computer capable of running Adobe software is required for online students. Department has some cameras and laptio for loan to students who cannot supply their own.
PHOT 164 Digital Printing for Photographers
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture weekly, 1 hours lab weekly, 36 contact hours total
- Advisory
- PHOT 029 (Introduction to Photography)
A comprehensive short course on making digital photo prints. Student will learn camera capture, color management, file preparation, formatting, printing on fine art and specialty paper by creating custom color (ICC) profiles, and matting and framing.
PHOT 165 Workshop: Lighting on Location
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture weekly, 1 hours lab weekly, 36 contact hours total
Explores various strategies for working with portable strobes and speed lights in interior and exterior locations. Student will learn how to effectively add artificial light to a range of photos, including architecture, portraits, and landscapes. Topics will include balancing light sources, metering and modifying light, and exploring the creative possibilities of location lighting. Issues of equity and representation will also be explored. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department will supply lighting equipment during class and a limited amount of lighting equipment is available for loan outside the class.
PHOT 529 Photography - Beginning
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
A comprehensive, hands-on introduction to photography, including camera operations, composition, concept, using photo software. Historical and contemporary photographers and genres will also be explored, including attention to issues of race and representation in the field of photography. The course will focus on digital cameras and processes, but there will be some content on film photography.
PHOT 531 Photography - Intermediate
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
An intermediate course, expanding on the concepts and technical skills student explored in Photography - Beginning. Students will complete photo projects designed to further their understanding of photographic language and personal expression, as well as advance their camera and post-production skills. Historical and contemporary photographers, genres and trends will be presented, with attention to women and people of color, as well as issues of race and representation in photography.
PHOT 532 Digital Imaging for Photographers - Beginning
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
An in-depth exploration of the development of digital photographs, including the use of industry standard software (Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Photoshop) to catalog, optimize and transform digital photographs. This class is intended for photographers and will cover best practices from camera to print. History and ethical issues will also be covered. Students will complete projects that emphasize their own personal vision and creativity. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department has some cameras for short term loan for students who have difficulty acquiring their own. All students will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud and computers are available to loan to online students who cannot provide their own.
PHOT 551 Lighting and Studio Practices
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
A solid introduction to the technical and aesthetic principles of working with light and using professional studio lighting equipment to create commercial, retail, and fine art photographs. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation that are related to the content of the class. DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable digital camera required. Computer required for online course. The department has some cameras and laptops to loan for students who cannot provide their own. On campus students will have access to the lighting studio and digital lab. All students will be able to check out professional lighting equipment for assignments.
PHOT 552 Portraiture
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
Explores all areas of portrait photography, including fine art, publication, and retail. Covers technical and aesthetic aspects of portraiture, including lighting and framing, but also historical and contemporary portrait photography. Attention will be paid to issues of racism, representation, and the power structures that exist in both past and current practice of portrait photography. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. The department has a limited number of cameras to loan for those that cannot provide their own. Field trips may be required, but students will be offered comparable options if unable to attend.
PHOT 553 Product, Advertising and Editorial Photography
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
Explore the camera and lighting techniques used to create photographs of products, and other subjects including food, product, clothing and accessories, and lifestyle, with an emphasis on the advertising and editorial markets. Students will learn about both historical and contemporary practitioners, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity, race and representation in the photo and advertising industries. Students will also learn about professional practices and industry opportunities. Digital SLR or comparable camera required. A very limited number of cameras are available to loan for students who cannot provide their own. Field trips may be required but students will have options if they are unable to attend.
PHOT 554 Architectural Photography
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 1.5 hours lecture weekly, 4.5 hours lab weekly, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 029 (Photography - Beginning) or PHOT 529 (Photography - Beginning)
Explore architectural photography, including the skills needed to produce photographs of both the exterior and the interior of structures, including perspective, specialty cameras and lenses, and post-production. Students will learn about both historical and contemporary practitioners, with an emphasis on diversity, and an exploration of issues of equity and ethics in the profession of architectural photography. Students will also learn about professional practices and industry opportunities. Digital SLR or comparable camera. Field trips will be part of the course for hybrid and on campus classes. Online and hybrid classes require access to a computer that can run Adobe Creative Cloud programs. Software is available through Solano and there are a small number of computer for loan to students who cannot supply their own.
PHOT 556 Portfolio Development - Photography
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture weekly, 3 hours lab weekly, 90 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- PHOT 551 (Lighting and Studio Practices) OR PHOT 151 Lighting and Studio Practices May enroll in either concurrently and PHOT 552 (Portraiture) OR PHOT 152 Portraiture May enroll in either concurrently or PHOT 551 (Lighting and Studio Practices) OR PHOT 151 Lighting and Studio Practices May enroll in either concurrently and PHOT 553 (Product, Advertising and Editorial Photography) OR PHOT 153 Product, Advertising, and Editorial Photography May enroll in either concurrently or PHOT 551 (Lighting and Studio Practices) OR PHOT 151 Lighting and Studio Practices May enroll in either concurrently and PHOT 554 (Architectural Photography) OR PHOT 154 Architectural Photography May enroll in either concurrently
Students create a professional photography portfolio and website in preparation for personal career goals. Emphasis is placed on individual direction and personal goals. Attention will be paid to issues of race and representation in the professional photography world. DSLR, mirrorless, or comparable camera required. Online students will need computer access. On campus students will have access to the studio and lab. All students will be able to check out a range of photographic equipment to help complete coursework, including special lenses and lighting equipment.