PHTO 103: Advanced Photography

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 108
Lecture Hours : 36
Lab Hours: 72
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 72
Prerequisite: PHTO 102.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: No
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

A study of advanced photographic techniques as applied to commercial and industrial careers working with specialized equipment. The continuation of studio applications including tabletop photography is emphasized for the production of product imagery. Artificial light, backgrounds, props and styling techniques are utilized to photograph products with challenging surfaces such as glass or metal. Material fee. 36 lecture hours, 72 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate an understanding of picture planning, lighting and composition techniques
  • Explain the principle and elements of artistic composition
  • Create a professional portfolio
  • Demonstrate knowledge of current digital photographic products and utilize them effectively
  • Demonstrate and practice the proper and safe use of studio lighting equipment.
  • Demonstrate advanced post production workflow.
  • Evaluate finished prints according to impact, quality, concept, technical excellence and composition.

Major Course Content

  1. Illustrate artistic, commercial composition
  2. Planning a photograph by previsualization

    1. Background, props, styling

  3. Tabletop Studio setup
    1. Mobile vs. Stationary
  4. Operate and control multiple electronic flash units in studio
    1. Strobe
    2. Speedlights
  5. Balance lighting
    1. Electronic flash and sunlight together
    2. Light brushing and Light painting
  6. Photograph various commercial and industrial objects
    1. Glass
    2. Metal
    3. Texture
    4. Transparent surfaces
  7. Operate and control continuous light
    1. Tungsten
    2. Daylight balanced light sources
  8. Summarize application and scope of photography

Lab Content

  1. Image aesthetics and composition
  2. Operation of professional photographic equipment
  3. Build a tabletop setup
  4. Use background and props to style and arrange
  5. Build a light tent
  6. Synchronization of electronic flash to shutter speeds
  7. Exposure control for flash illumination
  8. Image compositing
  9. Gels for colored light
  10. Use white balance for correct kelvin temperature lighting
  11. Professional print presentation

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Light It, Shoot It, Retouch It Scott Kelby

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Students are required to write a five page research paper on a studio based commercial photographer.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Demonstrate pre visualization by planning a photograph. Execute the plan using background, props and lighting to style a product still life.
Photograph a beverage in a glass vessel.
Produce a series of product shots for e commerce.
Photograph a product in motion; freeze the motion using flash.
Produce an image composite advertisement.
Create nature in the studio to highlight a "natural" product.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab, Online Education Lecture, Online Education Lab