Since the invention of photography in 1839, artists have used this medium to record their visible world and as a means of personal expression. New developments in the digital realm have further expanded these possibilities.
At Pratt Munson, students dive into a foundation of traditional 2- and 3-dimensional media, honing their visual thinking and creative processes. In the first semester, they’ll start with the rich, tactile experience of black and white photography, mastering film development and darkroom techniques. In the second semester, they transition to digital photography, learning digital image capture and digital editing skills. This foundational experience allows them to appreciate the art’s historical roots as well as contemporary innovations.
In the second year, their exploration of photography as a vehicle for artistic expression continues, focusing on creating conceptually engaging and visually compelling art while enhancing their technical skills. Students work with cutting-edge equipment and software, allowing them to push the boundaries of their creative capabilities and develop their personal photographic style.
Film and video classes are included in the curriculum, allowing students to expand their storytelling abilities through moving images. Additionally, they study the history of photography, gaining a deeper understanding of the medium's evolution and its impact on contemporary practices. This comprehensive approach ensures they develop a well-rounded perspective, blending technical proficiency with artistic innovation.
As students progress, they acquire a comprehensive understanding of the artistic and professional options in the field of photography. The program transitions from a highly structured curriculum in the sophomore year to a more self-determined approach in the senior year, emphasizing individual interests and facilitating the transition from student to independent artist and professional.
Plan of Study
Semester 1
FDC-140 Visualization/Representation | 3 credits
FDC-160 Light Color Design Lab | 3 credits
HMS-101A Literary and Critical Studies I | 3 credits
HAD-111 Themes in Art and Culture I | 3 credits
PHOT-105 Black and White Photography | 3 credits
Credits: 15
Semester 2
FC-141 Visualization/Representation/Concept | 3 credits
FDC-161 Light Color Design Studio | 3 credits
FDC-150 Space, Form, Process | 3 credits
HAD-112 Themes in Art and Culture II | 3 credits
PHOT-210 Digital Photography | 3 credits
Credits: 15
Semester 3
PHOT-211 Intermediate Digital Photography | 3 credits
PHOT-220 Large Format Photography | 3 credits
HAD-360 History of Photography | 3 credits
General Education Core Elective (Global, Thinking, OR Math/Science) | 3 credits
General Education Core Elective (Global, Thinking, OR Math/Science) | 3 credits
Credits: 15
Semester 4
PHOT-205 Sophomore Critique | 3 credits
PHOT-212 Digital Photography Expanded | 3 credits
PHOT-240 Acts of Recognition: Race, Ethics, and Representation | 3 credits
HMS-201A Literary and Critical Studies II | 3 credits
General Education Core Elective (Global, Thinking, OR Math/Science) | 3 credits
Credits: 15
Total Credits: 60
