Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts  

The way the world captures, enhances and distributes photographs is continually transformed by technology.

In the Photography and Imaging Department at Art Center, we focus on what does not change: the essence of great photography.

It is the person making the photograph—and his or her intention, expression and style—who makes the technology matter.

Our curriculum helps photographers acquire the skills and creative fluency needed to achieve their vision, whether their work will be displayed on a cell phone or the side of a building.

We challenge our students to create resonant visual documents, not just well-crafted representations.

We emphasize the development and articulation of ideas and intentions, recognizing that what happens before the push of a button is just as significant—if not more—than what happens after.

While the shift to digital technology gives photographers new image-making capabilities, it also brings added responsibilities related to authorship and originality. We address these new realities.

Our state-of-the-art traditional and digital labs support a wide variety of photographic processes. In addition to conceptual and studio classes, our students study technology, fine art, history and advertising, as well as courses in business planning, branding and marketing.

Our students have opportunities to collaborate with peers from other majors through individual projects, corporate-sponsored Transdisciplinary Studios and Designmatters projects on behalf of humanitarian organizations.

Find out more about our department at artcenterphoto.com.