Program Overview

Introduction to Photography Program

The Photography program at IU Herron School of Art and Design offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the creative, expressive, and practical aspects of digital and analog photographic processes.

Course Offerings

The program includes a range of courses, including:

• Introduction to Photography (HER-K 201): Introduction to the creative, expressive, and practical aspects of digital and analog photographic processes.
  • Covers essential elements of imaging, from primitive light-sensitive surfaces to digital techniques for editing images with computer software.
  • Requires a digital camera with adjustable aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
• Analog Photography (HER-K 202): Introduction to black and white analog darkroom photography.
  • Builds on exposure, optics, and camera operations learned in K201.
  • Emphasizes the development of a personal photographic vision using silver gelatin or similar analog process.
• Intermediate Digital Photography (HER-K 211): Expands on digital photography skill sets introduced in K201.
  • Emphasizes digital printing techniques and expanding editing capabilities.
  • Students work with technical and conceptual aspects of artistic photographic practice and research artists working with digital imaging.
• Topics in Photography (HER-K 212): Covers technical issues related to photography, with topics changing from semester to semester.
  • Includes 4x5, Lighting, Final Cut Pro, Sound Techniques, and Alternative Processes.
  • Repeatable for up to 4 credits.
• Advanced Digital Imaging (HER-K 300): Covers time-based digital media techniques and delves into discussions about video artists and digital artists.
  • Requires prior knowledge of computer basics and Adobe Photoshop.
• Lighting for Photography (HER-K 301): Introduces fundamental concepts of studio and on-location lighting using digital photography.
  • Emphasizes technical understanding of photographic lighting and integration into fine art practice.
  • Requires a DSLR camera and external light meter.
• Photography IV (HER-K 302): Explores photography as an expressive visual medium and its relationship to culture.
  • Teaches advanced controls over negative production and printing techniques.
  • Introduces alternative methods of presentation beyond the window mat.
• Color Photography (HER-K 303): Introduces a hybrid mode of color photography, outlining the complementary use of analog and digital imaging techniques.
  • Requires experimentation with analog film, color photographic theory, and operation of medium and large format cameras.
• Individual Research Photography (HER-K 311): Provides special arranged instruction within photography, potentially including field experiences.
• Photo and Intermedia Seminar (HER-K 330): Develops conceptual, technical, historical, and critical knowledge on rotating topics.
• Advanced Photography (HER-K 401 and HER-K 402): Advanced courses taught as seminars for graduating photo majors.
  • Emphasizes individual instruction, preparation for graduate study, and professional exhibition practice.
  • Requires production of two professional-quality exhibitions and a photographic portfolio.
• Individual Research in Photography (HER-K 411 and HER-K 412): Provides experience in independent processes and/or experiences outside traditional classroom teaching.
  • Emphasizes using the course to bolster professional practice through internships or individualized instruction.
• Photography and Intermedia Seminar (HER-K 430): Develops conceptual, technical, historical, and critical knowledge on rotating topics, including performance, image and text, critical theory, and professional photography practices.