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Course

Architectural Photography

ART-40607

Architectural Photography: Capture the Beauty of Structures Inside and Out
6 Weeks | Prerequisites: 
Photo I: Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO (ART-40629) and Digital Photography Workflow (ART-40705).

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of architectural photography with this comprehensive six-week course. Whether you’re drawn to historic landmarks or modern marvels, this class will equip you with the skills and techniques to produce stunning images of interior and exterior architecture. With expert guidance, you’ll learn to harness the power of light, angles, and composition to create photographs that tell compelling stories about the built environment.

Course Details

This course combines interactive discussions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on assignments to deepen your understanding of architectural photography. Explore the essential tools, including cameras, lenses, and post-production software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, while working on weekly projects designed to challenge and inspire you. You’ll also study iconic works by masters such as Julius Shulman and contemporary photographers, applying their techniques to your portfolio. By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to showcase your work and even take the first steps toward a professional career in architectural photography.

Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned professional, this course offers something for everyone. From mastering the interplay of natural light with architectural forms to perfecting your post-processing techniques, you’ll gain the confidence to approach any project with creativity and precision. Don’t just photograph buildings—tell their stories and make them unforgettable.

What You'll Learn

  • Render Three-Dimensional Objects: Transform three-dimensional structures into stunning two-dimensional photographs.
  • Discern Optimal Angles: Learn how to identify the best angles and times of day to capture breathtaking architectural imagery.
  • Natural and Artificial Lighting: Understand the effects of natural light on exterior architecture and learn how to use flash effectively for interior spaces.
  • Refined Post-Production Skills: Develop editing skills, including color correction, exposure adjustments, black-and-white processing, and split toning. Enhance your knowledge of Photoshop's Retouching Tools, the Contextual Task Bar, and Generative Fill. 
  • Versatility: Explore both representational and interpretive approaches to architectural photography to add versatility to your portfolio.
  • Problem-Solving Expertise: Gain experience in overcoming challenges unique to architectural photography, enhancing your problem-solving skills.

Course Information

2.00 units
TBD
Notes:

Quarters Offered: Winter
Required Materials and Software: Fully adjustable DSLR Camera or prosumer digital camera, Memory Card, Tripod, Wide Angle Lens with Lens Hood (example: 24-70mm or 18-55mm Lens), Off Camera Flash (with a Foot Stand), Batteries for Camera & Flash, Storage Device: Portable Hard Drive, Adobe Lightroom Classic, Adobe Photoshop, and Creative Cloud Photography Plan.
Recommended Materials and Software: Cable Release (remote trigger), Card Reader, Extra Memory Cards and Batteries, Camera Strap, Flash Trigger / Commander, Photo Mechanic (software for fast culling).
Flexible Enrollment:This course is an elective for the Photography: Images & Techniques professional certificate but is open to all students, even if you're not enrolled in the Certificate Program. 
Academic Calendar: The Academic Calendar shows the open enrollment dates and term start dates for each quarter. Courses do not necessarily start on the first day of the term.  

Course sessions

Please contact the Arts, Humanities, Languages & Digital Arts department at 858-534-5508 or unex-digital@ucsd.edu for information about this course and upcoming sections.