Mar 18, 2024  
2014-2015 Catalog 
    
2014-2015 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]


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Professional Photography (AAS)



Picture of students earning their Professional Photography (AAS) degree at CMC.The Professional Photography program prepares graduates with the skills required for entry into a variety of professional photographic careers. Today’s professional photographer must have a thorough knowledge of digital capture techniques for still images and video, computer skills in digital imaging work flow and asset management, a strong sense of visual design and the ability to tell compelling stories with images and new media. First year curriculum consists of foundational training in the use of digital SLR cameras, digital capture, capture processing and work flow, lenses, natural and available lighting, aesthetics, and principles of design. In addition to advancing their creative vision, second year students learn new media storytelling, color theory and color management, studio lighting, portraiture, view camera techniques, and product illustration in our digitally equipped studio. Elective courses allow students to explore a variety of topics including traditional film photography, alternative processes, photojournalism, field workshops, graphic design, web design and other courses in the programs of the Isaacson School for New Media.

Photography is a field that requires a balance between technical expertise and visual aesthetics. The Professional Photography program recognizes this fact and has a curriculum designed to achieve this balance. All classes will challenge students to develop technical skills while creating compelling images that impact targeted audiences.  This educational philosophy has led to numerous student awards and recognition in the international College Photographer of the Year competition.

Graduates of the Professional Photography program have begun careers in the areas of editorial, portraiture, commercial, studio illustration, photojournalism, architectural photography, studio management, digital imaging service bureaus, and as full time and independent photography assistants. A number of our graduates have extended their education in photography with transfers to four-year institutions offering bachelor degrees in photography.

Students must demonstrate college-level proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics to be accepted into this program. You must demonstrate these required skill proficiencies through either Accuplacer placement tests or acceptable ACT or SAT scores. A student’s proficiency may affect the sequence of courses in which he/ she can enroll and may also extend the time required to complete this program. For details see the Academic Placement and Testing  section and a Colorado Mountain College adviser. PHO courses have a specific sequence. Please consult with your adviser for a recommended sequence of courses.

A minimum grade of “C” is required in all PHO courses for graduation from the Professional Photography program.

The Professional Photography program is part of the Isaacson School for New Media which offers many scholarships to its students. In addition to these scholarships, there are also photography-specific scholarships including the Jonathan Wright Memorial Endowed Scholarship. See the scholarships  section for more information.

Graduates will receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Professional Photography. The Professional Photography program is offered at Roaring Fork Campus - Glenwood Springs/Spring Valley.

The Isaacson School for New Media at Colorado Mountain College is devoted to preparing students to be competitive in the rapidly changing fields of Photography, Digital Media, and Graphic Design.  These three fields span the creative process from ideation, visualization, content creation, delivery, and promotion.  Our students are working together to tell media-rich stories across all three curricula.

Learn more about our Professional Photography Program and the Isaacson School of New Media.

General Education Requirements


(15 credits)

Minimum Hours Required


Minimum Credit Hours Required (62)
Minimum Contact Hours Required (1072.5)

*Students must take six credits of approved electives to complete the degree in Professional Photography. These electives can come from ART, JOU, MGD, PHO, or RTV but must be approved by an adviser from the Professional Photography program. Only one field workshop can be taken towards elective credit.

Note:


◆ State Guaranteed Transfer Course

✽ Applies to CMC AA/AS/AGS Degrees

Note:  Not all programs/courses are available at every campus and may require travel to another campus or access via distance learning (IVS, hybrid, or online).

For more information see Degree & Certificate Descriptions & Requirements  .