Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Photography

Photography

Overview Courses

The Folsom Lake College photography curriculum is designed to teach skills for entry-level positions in the professional photography industry.

Division Dean Francis Fletcher
Department Chair Heike Schmid
Phone (916) 608-6752
Email fletchf@flc.losrios.edu

Photography (PHOTO) Courses

PHOTO 295 Independent Studies in Photography

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

PHOTO 299 Experimental Offering in Photography

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.

PHOTO 302 Beginning Digital Photography

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L3 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course combines lectures with hands-on experience in digital photography. Instruction includes digital camera function, exposure control, technical and creative control, computer manipulation of images and digital output options. The format of the class includes lectures, visual presentations, lab time, exams and a portfolio. Students must provide their own adjustable DSLR cameras and necessary media and materials. A fee is charged for digital printing.

PHOTO 312 Intermediate Digital Photography

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:PHOTO 302 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is designed to expand on the technical and creative concepts acquired in beginning digital photography. Topics of instruction include: advanced digital camera functions, exposure control, introduction to studio lighting, computer manipulation of images using Adobe Photoshop, digital archiving, digital output options and digital print finishing. The class includes lectures, visual presentations, lab time, written tests, a field trip, and a portfolio. Students must provide their own adjustable DSLR cameras and necessary media and materials. A fee is charged for digital printing.

PHOTO 340 Careers in Photography

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:PHOTO 302 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an overview of different careers available in the photographic industry. Fields of study include: portraiture, wedding photography, fashion, commercial and tabletop, photojournalism, and fine art photography. Students are encouraged to pursue their own area of interest by working with professionals in the field. Students may work with digital or traditional cameras. The class includes: lectures, studio visits, lab time, and completion of a resume, price list, and portfolio. Students will need a camera capable of manual control and focus, a computer, and access to image editing software (such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom) to complete assignments. There is a charge for digital output services on campus.

PHOTO 400 Digital Imaging

Units:3
Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:PHOTO 302 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This is an introductory course in digital imaging, compositing and electronic file preparation for publishing. The class includes lectures, use of computers and scanners, slide presentations, preparation of a journal and a digital portfolio.

PHOTO 420 History of Photography

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L3 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 3A (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course explores the history of photography as a medium of artistic expression and communication, with a major emphasis on the integration of history, theory, aesthetics, and criticism. Through a comprehensive examination of the evolution of photography from its inception to the present day, students will gain a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and artistic forces that have shaped this medium.
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the history of photography, emphasizing the integration of historical context, theoretical frameworks, aesthetic considerations, and critical analysis. The format of the class may include a field trip.

PHOTO 495 Independent Studies in Photography

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

PHOTO 498 Work Experience in Photography

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:30 - 300 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Student must be in a paid or non-paid internship, volunteer opportunity, or job related to career interests.
Advisory:ENGWR 110 or ESL 325
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of Photography. Course content will include understanding the application of education to the workforce; completing required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. During the semester, the student is required to attend orientation. Students must complete 75 hours of related paid work experience, or 60 hours of related unpaid work experience, for one unit. An additional 75 hours of related paid work experience or 60 hours of related unpaid work experience is required for each additional unit. The course may be taken for a maximum of 16 units. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Online students must have an email account. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

PHOTO 499 Experimental Offering in Photography

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is designed to allow advanced students to pursue and research their photographic interests and receive credit. Students must provide a proposal outlining their area of interest and arrange meetings with an instructor. Students may wish to challenge the prerequisite on the basis of equivalent experience.