Photography
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About the Program
The Photography Program at NMU prepares students to create and communicate visually using both digital and traditional photographic methods. Students develop technical skills, explore creative expression, and learn visual storytelling to build a distinctive artistic voice.
Facilities include Mac-based labs with professional printers and software, a commercial lighting studio, wet labs for historic processes, and access to cameras, tripods, and lighting equipment for check-out. The program emphasizes integrating digital technology with traditional methods to support a wide range of photographic practices.
Photography Faculty
Photography Courses
AD 217 Photography: Foundations
4 credit hours
Offered: Fall, Winter, Summer
Introduction to the technical and compositional aspects of digital photography. Through creative assignments, students are encouraged to explore and develop their unique strengths and interests within the medium.
AD 317A Photography: Digital Methods
4 credit hours
Offered: Fall, Winter
Prerequisite: AD 212 or AD 217 or instructor permission.
Students expand their knowledge of digital photography, focusing on advanced digital techniques and creative processes while developing their individual photographic practices.
AD 317B Photography: Analog Methods
4 credit hours
Offered: Fall
Prerequisite: AD 212 or AD 217 or instructor permission.
Introduction to analog photography processes. Through creative projects, students are encouraged to explore the various qualities of analog techniques while continuing to advance their individual photographic practices.
AD 417A Photography: Contemporary Practices
4 credit hours
Offered: Winter, odd-numbered years
Prerequisite: AD 303 or concurrent enrollment, AD 317A or AD317B or instructor’s permission.
Design and implementation of individual advanced projects while exploring contemporary theoretical and critical photographic concepts.
AD 417B Photography: Professional Practices
4 credit hours
Offered: Winter, even-numbered years
Prerequisite: AD 303 or concurrent enrollment, AD 317A or AD317B or instructor’s permission.
Design and implementation of individual advanced projects while gaining knowledge of professional practices within the photographic field.
Photography Studio
The Photography Studio at NMU provides facilities for both traditional and digital photography. The black-and-white darkroom includes 29 Beseler 45XL enlargers, stainless-steel sinks with built-in ventilation, and a large film processing and print-drying area. Color and large-format film are processed with a Jobo 2500 processor, and prints are produced using Epson 4800, 4880, and 10600 printers.
The studio also features professional lighting equipment, including ProFoto strobes, Sinar and Cambo view cameras, and Foba studio stands. Critique rooms have track lighting, a separate finishing room is available for film sorting and print mounting, and the general work area faces an outdoor courtyard, providing a versatile space for both instruction and independent projects.
Photography FAQ
What is the difference between a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS)?
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography is a professional studio degree with more credit hours dedicated to photography and related studio courses. This path provides extensive hands-on experience in both digital and traditional photographic methods, preparing students for careers in the visual arts or graduate study.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees are more flexible, allowing students to combine their photography major with a minor outside the School of Art and Design. The BA also includes a world language requirement, while the BS allows other minors not related to language. These degrees provide opportunities to diversify skills and explore additional areas of interest.
Does the school require a portfolio review before you are accepted into our programs?
If you are accepted to the university, you may pursue a degree within the School of Art & Design. A portfolio review is not required for admission; however, all Art and Design majors must complete a faculty review of their work through AD303: Individual Art Review. The review is held in the twelfth week of each semester.
For information on general University admission requirements, contact the Admissions Office.
What equipment do I need for photography?
All photography students, starting with the 100-level course, need access to a digital camera capable of shooting in RAW format. The photography lab provides twenty Nikon D40 DSLR cameras for 24-hour checkout. Students must supply their own secure digital card when borrowing cameras.
Advanced photography majors will also need access to a film camera in any format, from 35mm SLRs to medium format, pinhole, or toy cameras. View camera work requires the use of studio view cameras, which are provided by the university. While some students choose to purchase higher-end cameras and lenses, it is not required.
What will I study in the photography program?
Students in the Photography program study both digital and traditional photographic techniques, gaining hands-on experience with cameras, composition, printing, and image editing using Adobe software. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, visual communication, and developing a personal artistic voice.
Upper-level courses build on foundational skills and focus on color and black-and-white photography, alternative processes, studio lighting, and film and digital view cameras. Students pursue individual projects that prepare them for professional work and personal creative development.
Do Photography graduates find employment after graduation?
Many graduates who stay in contact with the program have found employment in photography or related fields. The curriculum provides training in both current digital technology and traditional photographic processes, preparing students for professional expectations.
Graduates work across a variety of photography disciplines, including portrait, fashion, food, product, editorial, architectural, corporate, and fine art photography. While most stay in the Midwest, some have pursued opportunities in major cities such as Los Angeles and New York. A growing number of graduates also continue their education in graduate programs.
Are there scholarships available for incoming first-year students?
For information about scholarships for incoming freshmen, please visit the Scholarships & Financial Aid page.