Photography

Vision 

The vision of the University of La Verne’s Undergraduate Photography Program is to be a leading center of excellence in photography education, preparing students for successful careers in the creative arts. We are committed to providing our students with a rigorous and comprehensive education that combines technical mastery, critical thinking, and creative expression.

Mission

The student-centered mission of the University of La Verne’s Undergraduate Photography Program is to:

• Empower students to develop their unique visual voices and creative potential.
• Provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the rapidly changing field of photography.
• Foster an inclusive, diverse, equitable, accessible, collaborative and supportive learning environment that encourages students to experiment, innovate, and grow.
• Promote a deep understanding of the history, theory, and practice of photography.
• Inspire students to use photography as a tool for communication, storytelling, and social change.

We believe that photography is a powerful medium for self-expression, understanding, and connection. We are committed to educating the next generation of photographers who will use their skills to make a positive impact on the world.

Learning Outcomes:  

• Visual literacy: Students critically analyze the visual language of photography in historical, social, and cultural contexts, applying the elements and principles of design to their own work.
• Critical thinking: Students research, describe, and critically analyze works of visual art and photography in relation to historical and contemporary contexts.
• Communication: Students effectively communicate photographic concepts in writing, verbally, and visually.
• Creative experimentation: Students experiment with a variety of photographic techniques, genres, and styles to develop their unique vision and voice as photographers, using new technologies to create and share their work.
• Technical mastery: Students master a range of photographic techniques, including both past and emerging technologies, to execute creative ideas and produce high-quality images.
• Production: Students use their photographic skills, knowledge, and resources to create, exhibit, and publish original photographic artwork and research projects.
• Ethics and social responsibility: Students practice ethical and socially responsible photography, aware of the power of photography and using it in a positive way.
• Professional practice: Students develop and implement a personal aesthetic and marketing strategy to create and market their artistic practice effectively.
• Community engagement: Students connect with the wider art community by participating in photography exhibitions and events, and volunteering their time to local and regional art organizations.
• Lifelong learning: Students develop a commitment to lifelong learning in the field of photography, staying up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and practices, and continually striving to improve their skills and knowledge.