| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (001) |
|
Mon
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1712
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (002) |
Catherine Gass |
Tues
3:30 PM - 9:15 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1696
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (003) |
|
Tues
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1697
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (004) |
|
Wed
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1698
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (005) |
Kate O'Neill |
Thurs
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1699
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (006) |
|
Thurs
3:30 PM - 9:15 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1700
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Introduction to Photographic Image Making |
1001 (007) |
|
Fri
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This foundational course introduces students to photography as a tool for creative expression and critical inquiry. Through hands-on assignments, students develop technical skills in camera operation, composition, and digital printing while exploring photography¿s evolving nature and impact on perception. Readings, screenings, and discussions provide a critical framework for analyzing images¿both personal and cultural. Emphasizing both conceptual growth and practical application, the course encourages experimentation across genres and prepares students for advanced photographic study. Required for all subsequent photo courses.
|
Class Number
1715
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 106
|
| Slow Photo |
2003 (001) |
Monika Niwelinska |
Fri
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course invites students with a foundational knowledge of photography to expand their image-making practices through hands-on, experimental techniques. Exploring cyanotype, van dyke brown, collage, reproduction, and transfer methods, students gain a working understanding of graphic arts and print films. The course encourages curiosity, independent research, and creative risk-taking, with opportunities to integrate text, installation, and performance. Emphasizing process and material exploration, Slow Photo fosters a deeper engagement with photography beyond the digital, embracing time-intensive approaches that challenge conventional image-making.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
|
Class Number
1701
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 206
|
| The Anthropocene |
2006 (001) |
Oliver Sann |
Wed
8:30 AM - 11:15 AM
In Person
|
|
Description
'The Anthropocene' is the name of the new geological epoch, proposing that the human species has become the single most dominant agent of change affecting the Earth's ecosystems. Photography plays in this context a pivotal role and goal of this class is to promote different photographic experiences on land- and cityscapes of the Anthropocene. Collaborative work and access to different material forms, laboratories, analog and digital photographic media as well as scholarship and first-person testimony on health, race, politics and aesthetics, will help generate diverse perspectives on the entangled realities of the world and the complex human-natural systems. Questions of environmental justice and environmental ethics will take center stage in this class.
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Class Number
1720
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Digital Imaging, Economic Inequality & Class, Art and Science
Location
280 Building Rm 216
|
| Medium Format |
2009 (001) |
|
Mon
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Explore the history, methods, and creative potential of medium format film photography. In this course, students will work with medium format cameras, experimenting with black-and-white and color film. Through guided instruction, they will learn film development techniques and both analog and digital printing methods. By combining traditional and experimental approaches, students will expand their photographic practice and deepen their understanding of the medium.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: 3 credits of PHOTO 1000 level courses.
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Class Number
1716
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 214
|
| Color |
2010 (001) |
Marzena Abrahamik |
Fri
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course explores the intricate concepts and practices of color photography, integrating perception, science, and cultural significance. Students refine their ability to see and interpret color through hands-on projects, peer critique, and historical and theoretical discussions. Technical instruction includes image capture, color correction, light quality, printing across various scales and media, and presentation strategies. Through these explorations, students deepen their understanding of color¿s role in shaping meaning and photographic expression.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
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Class Number
1702
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 216
|
| Color |
2010 (002) |
Sonja Ruth Thomsen |
Mon
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course explores the intricate concepts and practices of color photography, integrating perception, science, and cultural significance. Students refine their ability to see and interpret color through hands-on projects, peer critique, and historical and theoretical discussions. Technical instruction includes image capture, color correction, light quality, printing across various scales and media, and presentation strategies. Through these explorations, students deepen their understanding of color¿s role in shaping meaning and photographic expression.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
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Class Number
1703
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 216
|
| Black and White |
2011 (001) |
Kate O'Neill |
Fri
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course explores the techniques and aesthetics of black and white photography, from exposure to final prints. Students will develop skills in analog darkroom and inkjet printing, contrast control, lighting techniques, and the impact of scale, paper, and film choices. Hands-on projects and darkroom experimentation will deepen technical abilities and creative expression. An adjustable film camera is required.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
|
Class Number
1704
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 214
|
| Black and White |
2011 (002) |
Robert Clarke-Davis |
Wed
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course explores the techniques and aesthetics of black and white photography, from exposure to final prints. Students will develop skills in analog darkroom and inkjet printing, contrast control, lighting techniques, and the impact of scale, paper, and film choices. Hands-on projects and darkroom experimentation will deepen technical abilities and creative expression. An adjustable film camera is required.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
|
Class Number
1705
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 206
|
| Black and White |
2011 (003) |
Oliver Sann |
Thurs
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course explores the techniques and aesthetics of black and white photography, from exposure to final prints. Students will develop skills in analog darkroom and inkjet printing, contrast control, lighting techniques, and the impact of scale, paper, and film choices. Hands-on projects and darkroom experimentation will deepen technical abilities and creative expression. An adjustable film camera is required.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
|
Class Number
1713
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 214
|
| Lighting Fundamentals |
2015 (001) |
Marzena Abrahamik |
Thurs
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Light is a powerful tool for creative control. In this course, students learn to observe, measure, and manipulate light to enhance their photographic work. Through hands-on practice, they explore the interplay of natural, ambient, and artificial light sources¿including on-camera and hand-held flash¿within existing conditions. By understanding metering and light mixing techniques, students gain the skills to shape mood, depth, and atmosphere in their images. This course provides a strong foundation in lighting, equipping students with practical techniques to elevate their work with confidence and precision.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
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Class Number
1706
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 207
|
| Lighting Fundamentals |
2015 (002) |
Sonja Ruth Thomsen |
Tues
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Light is a powerful tool for creative control. In this course, students learn to observe, measure, and manipulate light to enhance their photographic work. Through hands-on practice, they explore the interplay of natural, ambient, and artificial light sources¿including on-camera and hand-held flash¿within existing conditions. By understanding metering and light mixing techniques, students gain the skills to shape mood, depth, and atmosphere in their images. This course provides a strong foundation in lighting, equipping students with practical techniques to elevate their work with confidence and precision.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
|
Class Number
1707
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 207
|
| Photography and Visual Culture Theory |
2040 (001) |
Jonas Becker |
Tues
12:15 PM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course examines historical and contemporary philosophies, critical frameworks, and theoretical approaches that shape photography and visual culture. Designed to prepare students for advanced discourse, whether in graduate studies or as practicing artists navigating the broader art world, the class emphasizes the integration of theory, research, and artistic practice. Through weekly critical readings, discussions, and informal writing assignments, students will analyze key concepts, articulate ideas, and conduct theoretical research connected to their own creative work. The course also incorporates visits to photography exhibitions and collections around the city, fostering engagement with contemporary photographic dialogue.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: 3 credits of PHOTO 2000 level courses.
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Class Number
2173
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Theory
Location
280 Building Rm 214
|
| Large-Format |
3002 (001) |
Alan Labb |
Tues
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Large Format Photography introduces students to the concepts and aesthetics of working with a large-format view camera. Students will learn pre-visualization, camera movements, perspective control, large-format optics, and sheet film handling. Through flexible assignments, they are encouraged to develop a personal style while exploring traditional genres such as portraiture, landscape, studio, and architecture. Technical skills include view camera setup, the zone system, large-format scanning, and both analog and digital printing. Each student is assigned a 4x5 studio camera and has access to 8x10 and 4x5 field cameras, along with various optics and accessories.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: 3 credits of PHOTO 2000 level courses.
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Class Number
1708
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 206
|
| Individual Projects |
3004 (001) |
Oliver Sann |
Tues
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course fosters the development of self-directed, research-driven projects, challenging students to push beyond traditional photographic approaches and explore interdisciplinary practices. Emphasizing experimentation, students refine their conceptual depth and technical skills while advancing a sustained body of work. Through critiques, discussions, collaborations, workshops, and individual mentoring, the course supports ambitious project development and strategies for exhibition, publication, and public engagement. Designed to complement Senior Capstone projects, it prepares students for the BFA exhibition and professional creative practices. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: 3 credits of PHOTO 2000 level courses.
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Class Number
1714
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Location
280 Building Rm 215
|
| Top: Photographic Books |
3005 (001) |
Robert Clarke-Davis |
Thurs
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
The class will address the photographic book. We will investigate the numerous styles and how it influences meaning. We will question the limits of books where photography will be the main emphasis. This is not a class that will be primarily on structure we will not be making books beyond the most basic level. The quality and traits of print on demand publishing and visit with local publishers and editors will be arranged. We will almost live in the Joan Flash Artists' Book Collection. The main text will be the Structure of the Visual Book by Keith Smith. Among courses that would work well in conjunction are: Structuring/Sequencing/Series and Artist Books.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001.
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Class Number
1711
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Location
280 Building Rm 216
|
| Image Editing & Output |
3007 (001) |
Sara Condo |
Fri
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Image Editing & Output refines digital imaging skills with a focus on post-production and high-quality printing. Students refine workflows, develop expertise in advanced editing techniques like color management, masking, and compositing, and explore creative post-production methods using Photoshop and other software. Technical assignments and self-directed projects reinforce these skills. Readings and discussions address contemporary issues in digital imaging and evolving output technologies. As digital tools constantly change, students develop research and problem-solving strategies to adapt their workflows and stay current with new advancements. This course balances technical precision with creative exploration, preparing students for the ever-evolving world of digital imaging.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: PHOTO 1001 and PHOTO 2010.
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Class Number
1710
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 215
|
| Structuring, Sequencing and Series |
3010 (001) |
Aimée Beaubien |
Mon
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Structuring, Sequencing, Series explores how photographic meaning is shaped through sequences and series¿fundamental ways we encounter images in books, exhibitions, installations, and digital spaces. This course examines how structure influences interpretation, considering both narrative and non-narrative approaches across diverse genres. Through hands-on assignments, students will experiment with serial imagery in photobooks, zines, portfolios, web-based projects, installations, video, and projection. By analyzing historical and contemporary examples, students will develop a deeper understanding of photography¿s evolving role and refine their ability to construct compelling visual narratives.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: 3 credits of PHOTO 2000 level courses.
|
Class Number
1709
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Comics and Graphic Novels, Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 215
|
| Capturing Time: The Intersection of the Cinematic and Photographic Image |
3032 (001) |
Alan Labb |
Thurs
6:45 PM - 9:30 PM
All Online
|
|
Description
Capturing Time explores the relationship between cinematic and photographic images through historical, theoretical, and artistic practices. Students will investigate the elusive concept of time and its presence across disciplines, forming the foundation for creating and experiencing time-based art. Weekly readings, screenings, and research will examine time, temporality, and the boundaries of still and moving images. Historical and contemporary resources will inform studio work, including visual exercises and a final project, culminating in a substantial body of work in each student's chosen medium.
Prerequisites
3 Credits of 2000-level Photo course
|
Class Number
1719
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Digital Imaging
Location
|
| Digital Light Projections |
3050 (001) |
Jan Tichy |
Thurs
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This course embraces the concept of projection as a broad field of art practice. Starting with the magic lantern, the course investigates the history of projection related practices that shape the parameters of visual perception and communication. Deconstructing the concept of the screen, the course focuses on projection in sculptural and installation contexts.
Microcontrollers and Adobe software is used in unorthodox ways to shape visual elements for digital light projection. History of visual, technical and conceptual use of light is accessed to investigate the interactions of projections with objects and space.
|
Class Number
1718
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Public Space, Site, Landscape
Location
MacLean 414
|
| PHOTO: Junior Seminar: Building a Sustainable Practice |
3922 (001) |
Jonas Becker |
Wed
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
Junior Seminar helps students build essential professional skills for life after graduation, focusing on developing a sustainable practice based on their strengths and working style. This five-hour studio seminar offers flexible time for individual mentoring, guest speakers, field trips, extended critiques, and dedicated work time, fostering both professional growth and creative community. Through hands-on projects, students create websites, CVs, grant proposals, and artist statements while learning how to tailor these materials for different opportunities. As one of SAIC's four required Junior Seminars, this course provides structure and support within the school's open, interdisciplinary curriculum, helping students confidently navigate their future careers.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: Sophomore seminar course
|
Class Number
1757
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Digital Imaging
Location
280 Building Rm 214
|
| PHOTO: Senior Studio Seminar |
4913 (001) |
|
Wed
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This interdisciplinary capstone, with an emphasis on contemporary photography and visual culture, is structured as an intensive critique and mentoring class focused on the development and presentation of culminating work at the end of the BFA and the continued progression of studio work beyond the BFA exhibition. The course supports the production of self-initiated work, a successful BFA show and a road map for a sustainable art practice after graduation. Preparations for the BFA exhibition include workshopping project proposals, budgets, production schedules, the development of new work and an array of possible final presentation forms.
Readings, screenings and discussions will examine useful models of participation in cultural production and a critical framework for analyzing a range of platforms to share work online, in print and exhibition. Studio visits will provide insight into the day-to-day life of artists at various stages in their career ranging from current SAIC grad students to working professionals.
Online and printed portfolios utilizing an ever-evolving archive of work will be refined along with professional supporting materials such as statements, CVs and artist talks necessary for a professional practice beyond graduation.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: Professional practice course
|
Class Number
1335
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Area of Study
Books and Publishing, Social Media and the Web
Location
280 Building Rm 215
|
| Photographic Imaging Technical Seminar |
5005 (001) |
Alex Wieder |
Tues
3:30 PM - 6:15 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This graduate-level course provides an in-depth exploration of the technical and conceptual aspects of photography. Students will gain certifications to use department equipment and facilities, while learning about workflow, acquisition, and output capabilities. The course emphasizes both technical skill development and individual project work, allowing students to troubleshoot and resolve challenges while producing work for critique. With a focus on both analog and digital processes, the course accommodates students with diverse technical backgrounds, offering advanced training in photographic methods and tools.
|
Class Number
2071
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Location
280 Building Rm 215
|
| Graduate Photography Seminar |
5006 (001) |
|
Mon
12:15 PM - 3:00 PM
In Person
|
|
Description
This graduate level studio seminar course is a hybrid of reading, discussion, making and critique, designed to pursue positions in historical and contemporary philosophy, critical analysis, and current thought relevant to photography and visual literacy. Throughout the semester, the course aims to explore the past and future of visual media and to look at its discourse in relation to life as an artist in the greater realm of culture, society and politics. Course programming includes critical readings, short and informal writing assignments, work and research presentations.
|
Class Number
2070
|
Credits
3
|
Department
Photography
Location
280 Building Rm 207
|
| Grad Projects:Photography |
6009 (002) |
Jan Tichy |
TBD - TBD
In Person
|
|
Description
Taken every semester, the Graduate Projects courses allow students to focus in private sessions on the development of their work. Students register for 6 hours of Graduate Project credit in each semester of study.
Prerequisites
Open to MFA, MFAW and MAVCS students only
|
Class Number
1230
|
Credits
3 - 6
|
Department
Photography
Location
|
| Grad Projects:Photography |
6009 (003) |
Jonas Becker |
TBD - TBD
In Person
|
|
Description
Taken every semester, the Graduate Projects courses allow students to focus in private sessions on the development of their work. Students register for 6 hours of Graduate Project credit in each semester of study.
Prerequisites
Open to MFA, MFAW and MAVCS students only
|
Class Number
2172
|
Credits
0
|
Department
Photography
Location
|
