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Course Syllabus

ART 1150 Photo I

  • Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
  • Department: Visual Art
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 3; Lecture: 3; Lab: 3
  • Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
  • Semester Approved: Fall 2026
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2031
  • End Semester: Summer 2032
  • Optimum Class Size: 15
  • Maximum Class Size: 15

Course Description

Photo I is a foundation studio course designed to expand creative, conceptual, and technical ability in digital photography. Students will explore the nature of and meaning of photographic representation and the role images play in contemporary culture. Multiple modes of photo-based image making will be taught through hands-on camera work, lectures, and discussion. Emphasis is placed on photography as a fine art medium through the development of creative expression and critical problem solving skills. Topics include camera operation, use of light, image editing, formal aesthetics, historical perspectives, conceptual approaches, exhibition presentation, and a final portfolio. Photo I is required course for acceptance into the Snow College Visual Arts AFA degree program. Camera equipment is available for student use. A program fee is required.

Justification

Photo I serves as an introduction to the photographic digital visual language and is foundational to understanding basic image concepts and practices in the Fine Arts. This foundation visual arts course is offered in visual arts programs around the country and in similar formats throughout the USHE system.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. MATERIAL PROFICIENCY: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in materials as applied to a range of concepts and techniques used in equipment operation, image creation, and portfolio presentation.
  2. CONCEPTUAL PRINCIPLES: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to identify conceptual principles including discernment between material, formal and conceptual issues, problem solving, and communication as applied to their process in creating photographic images.
  3. HISTORICAL CONTEXT: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to discuss and apply historical examples to help contextualize their understanding of significant photographic movements and the relationship to contemporary photographic practice.
  4. CRITICAL ANALYSIS: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to critically analyze the creative process including materials, concepts, historical context, conceptual merit, and effective visual communication.
  5. CREATIVE PROCESS: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to utilize the creative process as it applies to their own and others’ photographic work using research, material and execution skills, and reflection.

Course Content

This course will include lectures, discussions, critiques, and applied projects as they apply to the following topics in photography: camera operation, the use of light, image editing software, field techniques, exhibition presentation, formal aesthetics, historical and contemporary movements in photography, and analysis of contemporary photographic art. Students will complete a culminating final portfolio designed to build on their technical skill set and explore their personal creative practice.