Photography 1-Year Certificate (CERT) Program

Welcome to our Photography Certificate Program, designed to equip aspiring photographers with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic world of photography. This one-year intensive program offers a blend of technical training and creative development, ensuring students emerge as confident and competent photographers.

Program Objectives

• Develop a strong foundation in photography techniques and principles.
• Enhance creative and visual storytelling abilities.
• Master the use of professional photography equipment and software.
• Build a professional portfolio that showcases individual style and expertise.

Curriculum Overview

The photography pathway includes three levels. Photo I and Photo II are the introductory and intermediate courses, and they are also dual credit classes: students who complete both courses can earn both high school and college credit (credit accepted at some community colleges). Photo III is the advanced course which introduces students to skills needed for a career in commercial photography.

• Photography 1:  This course is designed for students with little or no photography background. First semester instruction will cover all aspects of black and white photography, digital enhancement, including an introduction to the use and proper handling of a DSLF (digital single-lens reflex) camera and light reading as a creative tool. Creative and technical instruction will be presented through lectures, study of the great masters of photography and the history of photography, in-class critiques, as well as thorough individual discussions with the teacher.
• Photography 2:  This course will cover various aspects of photography such as:  digital enhancement using the latest version of Adobe Lightroom, High Dynamic Range (HDR), architecture, urban landscapes, and animal photography.  This advanced class also travels to the Sacramento Zoo and various locations in San Francisco. The Photo 2 students also take part in portrait sessions throughout the school year. Prerequisite: Photography 1
• Photography 3:  This course will provide instruction in Commercial Photography by addressing both specific techniques for the creation of images as well as the business aspect of professional work in the field of photography. Coursework will include commercial portraiture, product photography, stock photography, editorial photography for publication, artistic commercial photography, and food photography. Students will also learn interpersonal and professional communication skills and create a professional photography portfolio. Prerequisite:  Photo 1