Jan 11, 2026  
DRAFT 2026-2027 College Catalog DRAFT 
    
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DRAFT 2026-2027 College Catalog DRAFT [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

ART 128 - Digital Photography I

6 Contact Hours, 3 Credits
2 lecture periods 4 lab periods


Digital photography emphasizing the technical, aesthetic issues, and its historical and contemporary global context in visual culture. Includes the creation of artworks exploring concepts and approaches to digital photography in relation to diverse cultural contexts. Also includes camera controls, file formats, lenses, depth of field and shutter speed effects, proper exposure, basic lighting set-ups, elements of composition, digital editing, digital printing, portfolio preparation and visual literacy. Also includes the critical analysis, reflection and discussion of digital photographic art from historical, cultural, academic and personal contexts.

Recommendation: Adobe Photoshop experience is recommended but not required before enrolling in this course.
Information: Professional photographic equipment, including cameras, are available for check out during the semester. Professional quality computers, software, printers, and lighting equipment will be provided for specific assignments.
Button linking to AZ Transfer course equivalency guide  

Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Analyze how photography has been used as a visual communication tool across diverse global cultures.
  2. Demonstrate operation of digital cameras competently.
  3. Demonstrate skill in a digital darkroom.
  4. Create a conceptual and technical photographic portfolio.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to critically analyze, reflect on and discuss digital photographic art from historical, cultural, academic and personal contexts.
Outline:
  1. History of Photography & Photography applications
    1. Identify the international explorations of photography since its 1826 invention, including but not limited to fine art, photojournalism, commercial, and editorial illustration
    2. Cultivate cultural and global awareness through analyzing photographic projects that explore important and relevant themes
  2. Digital Still Camera
    1. Aperture
    2. Shutter Speed
    3. ISO
    4. Light meter and exposure
    5. Camera manual and specifications
    6. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
    7. Optical viewfinders and the Single Lens Reflex (SLR)
    8. Automatic vs. manual
    9. Accessories
    10. Tethered shooting
  3. Adobe Bridge, Adobe Photoshop and Printing
    1. Organizing digital files
    2. Tonality
    3. Color Correction
    4. Sharpening
    5. Color Management
    6. Paper Types
  4. Photographic Portfolio
    1. Concept
    2. Size and scale
    3. Sequencing
    4. Editing
  5. Critical Analysis
    1. Group critiques of each other’s projects
    2. Individual project self-reflections
    3. Discussion on digital photography from historical, cultural, academic and personal contexts.