Bachelor of Fine Arts in Commercial Photography

Harrington's bachelor-level Commercial Photography degree program offers students the opportunity to learn the technical and aesthetic skills used in the creation of high-quality, commercially oriented photographic images. Students will also have the opportunity to learn image-editing software, professional digital capture systems and commercial lighting systems. Graduates will be expected to:

• Demonstrate the technical and aesthetic skills necessary for the creation of high quality, commercially oriented photographic images.
• Demonstrate proficiency with creation, capture and image-editing software to meet specific client needs.
• Display knowledge of professional digital capture systems, as well as commercial lighting systems.
• Recognize and select the appropriate tools for the given job.
• Apply ethical professional business practices, communication and marketing skills within the fundamentals of creating intellectual property relevant in the field of commercial photography.
• Work collaboratively in leadership and supporting roles as photographer and production personnel for clients.
• Utilize critical-thinking skills and research of environmental, economic, social and cultural issues to interpret trends in visual imagery in order to continually evolve a unique and sustainable photographic vision.
• Expand technical knowledge to other areas of visual media and apply knowledge to explore new avenues of image creation and distribution of images.

Courses in Harrington's BFA in Commercial Photography program focus on providing students with the opportunity to develop a strong sense of personal style built on a uniquely solid technical foundation. Classes promote strong communication skills and socio-cultural awareness within a collaborative learning environment. For example:

• In Commercial Photography, emphasis is on creativity, the enhancement of conceptual understanding and problem solving while reinforcing previously learned techniques. Students should gain practical experience in fashion, still life and the use of people in conceptual corporate/advertising photography.
• In Imaging and Studio Practices, fundamentals of lighting and quality in digital imaging are taught. Studio assignments are designed to introduce the student to the use and control of tungsten lighting, and the six qualities of light will be introduced.
• In Photography as a Communication Tool, students are introduced to the basic aspects of visual literacy and structure. In addition to lectures demonstrating professional use of these aspects, gallery visits, guest speakers and shooting assignments can help the student understand these vital building blocks. Students work individually and in small groups on projects addressing design, color and composition problems.

Other core requirements in this program include*:

• Web Process
• Critical Color and Workflow
• Digital Imaging I
• Digital Imaging II
• History of Photography
• History of Photographic Technology
• Fundamentals of Digital Imaging and Flow
• Lighting Theory
• Lighting People
• Studio Lighting
• Introduction to Multimedia
• Social Practices in Photography I
• Advanced Commercial Photography
• Advanced Studio Photography
• Introduction to Digital Filmmaking
• Digital Print Technologies
• Social Practices in Photography II
• Capstone/Specialization
• Photographic Practicum
• VSC202 Time-Based Design

*Course curriculum is subject to change.

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