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Course

A Short History of Photography

ART-40412

Discover the Fascinating Journey of Photography
6 Weeks | No Prerequisite

Embark on a captivating exploration of the evolution of photography with A Short History of Photography, a 6-week online course designed for enthusiasts. Whether you’re a photographer seeking a deeper connection to your craft or someone fascinated by visual culture, this course takes you on an enlightening journey through the milestones of photography’s development. Beginning with pre-photographic experiments and progressing to contemporary photography, you’ll uncover the pivotal moments, key figures, and groundbreaking movements that have defined this powerful medium.

Course Details

This course delves into the dynamic relationship between science, art, and society as it traces photography’s rich and complex history. Through engaging lectures, you’ll examine topics like early optical and chemical innovations, the role of photography in shaping visual culture, and its often-contentious relationship with art. Complementing your learning are immersive activities, such as a print-viewing assignment featuring rare photographic masterworks and a museum field trip (in-person or virtual). These hands-on experiences will deepen your appreciation of the craft and its enduring impact on how we see and interpret the world.

Join a community of learners who share your passion for photography and history. Through thought-provoking discussions, critical analyses, and interactive assignments, you’ll develop the ability to contextualize and critique photographic works within their historical and cultural frameworks. By the end of the course, you’ll not only gain a profound understanding of photography’s past but also sharpen your analytical skills to appreciate its role in shaping the present and future.

What You'll Learn

  • Explore the Origins: Define the chemical and optical requirements of photography and trace its technical evolution.
  • Meet the Pioneers: Study the lives and contributions of major historical figures, linking their styles and innovations to the medium’s development.
  • Understand Aesthetic Schools: Classify and critique the diverse movements and schools of photographic aesthetics.
  • Analyze Cultural Impact: Critically assess the social and cultural influences of photography across different historical periods.
  • Appreciate Photography’s Duality: Examine photography’s relationship with art, science, and visual culture.
  • Develop Critical Insight: Hone your ability to analyze photographic works through informed historical and cultural perspectives.

Course Information

Online
2.00 units
$325.00
Notes: Quarters Offered: Winter, Summer
Flexible Enrollment: This course is a Requirement for Photography: Images and Techniques Professional Certificate but is open to all students, even if you're not enrolled in the Certificate Program.

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This course applies to these programs

Photography: Images and Techniques

Course sessions

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Section ID:

186214

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

A World History of Photography (E-book version available here: https://www.scribd.com/doc/246888167/A-World-History-of-Photography-Art-eBook. 30 day free trial may be available) 4th
by Naomi Rosenblum
ISBN / ASIN: 9780789209375

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 1/31/2025
  • Early Enrollment Discount: $325 ($350 if enrolled after 12/9/2024)
  • Early enrollment advised
  • No UCSD parking permit required
  • No visitors permitted

Note:

SCBWI/MOPA/SDMA members can receive our $25 Early Enrollment discount prior to course start date. The max discount a MOPA/SCBWI member can receive for one class is $25. It is applied upon course enrollment over the phone or in person with proof of membership. This is an online course. There are no face-to-face class sessions. You'll have access to your online course on the published start date. Login on your MyExtension account, select My Courses and click the link under LOCATION.

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
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Instructor: Kendra Jekel

Kendra Jekel
Kendra Jekel is a freelance photographer who specializes in food and product photography. In her free time, she creates fine art imagery of forgotten landscapes situated predominately in the Southwest.

Kendra received her BFA and MFA from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA. While there she immersed herself in the study of various photographic techniques, concepts, and historical influences. This foundational education provided her with a strong technical background and a solid understanding of the artistic principles that underpin the medium.

Kendra began her freelance business over 10 years ago and has acquired clients both locally and nationally.  She now focuses her work mainly on shooting seasonal menus for local restaurants and helping chefs and food bloggers grow their visual presence. Beyond her personal photography practice, Kendra is also an educator, sharing her expertise and passion for the craft with aspiring photographers.

With her unwavering dedication and a genuine passion for storytelling through the lens, Kendra continues to push the boundaries of photography, creating captivating imagery that leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter her work.
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