Catalog Description
Advisory: Completion of PHOT 60A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 13 (7 lecture, 6 activity) per .5 unit
Description: Intensive field workshop covering methods and processes of night, artificial and available light photography. Topics include camera and lens use, accessory equipment, metering, lighting, and the unique aspects of the event, region or situation being studied. (CSU)
Course Student Learning Outcomes
- CSLO #1: Differentiate the distinguishing characteristics, potential problems and solutions of night photography.
- CSLO #2: Create night scenes using different metering methods, camera settings and lighting.
- CSLO #3: Prepare a portfolio reflecting expression and control for review and evaluation based upon concept, craft, composition and impact.
Effective Term
Fall 2025
Course Type
Credit - Degree-applicable
Contact Hours
13-78
Outside of Class Hours
17-102
Total Student Learning Hours
30-180
Course Objectives
Lecture Objectives:
1. Discuss the identifying characteristics of night photography;
2. define available light and natural light;
3. calculate exposures using various metering methods;
4. select ISO speeds appropriate to night photography and low-light photography;
5. plan for variations in weather, temperature and sense of safety;
6. explain the factors contributing to digital noise;
7. evaluate personal photographic work and the work of other students for composition, technique, point of view, and impact.
Activity Objectives:
8. apply fundamentals of photography while photographing and problem solving in limited light situations including bracketing exposures and compositions;
9. use equipment to avoid camera shake or other unintended blur in photographs;
10. experiment with alternative camera techniques, lenses and exposures while photographing in low light circumstances;
11. add light to the scene being photographed by flash, painting with light or other means; and
12. create final portfolio of photographs taken at night with emphasis on design elements and use of proper exposure techniques.
General Education Information
- Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
- CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
- Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
- IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)
Articulation Information
- CSU Transferable
Methods of Evaluation
- Objective Examinations
- Example: A multiple choice exam will be given covering exposure metering modes. (Objective 3)
- Projects
- Example: A portfolio of photographs presented as a digital slide show will be evaluated for photographic technique, composition, presentation, proper software utilization, visual communication and cohesiveness.
- Reports
- Example: Students create a summary report evaluating all photographs submitted for the final portfolio for technical execution and aesthetic interest. An outline of expected points to be covered will be included in a rubric provided to students. Evaluation will be based on inclusion of exposure and equipment data and a thorough self-reflection of successes and areas of improvement.
- Skill Demonstrations
- Example: Based upon lectures, readings and in-class demonstrations, students will demonstrate bracketing exposures to create HDR (high dynamic range) images. Students will be evaluated on proper exposure, using software to accurately combine the exposure sequence and aesthetic interest of the resulting images.
Repeatable
No
Methods of Instruction
- Activity
- Lecture/Discussion
Activity:
- While in the field instructor will work closely with students answering questions, providing individualized instruction, assisting with problem solving, and providing feedback on the images they are capturing. Students will be actively photographing at night and applying the information provided during lecture and readings required outside of class time.
Lecture:
- Instructor will prepare students for field studies by lecturing on night photography techniques. Instructor will prepare handouts and provide web resources for further study outside of class that will round out the information on night photography. Students will take notes, ask clarifying questions and respond to instructor questions.
Typical Out of Class Assignments
Reading Assignments
1. Read the materials describing the event or region and name its general "expected" features. From this generate a potential shot list. 2. Read the handout on the impact of ISO selection and sensor size on noise and come prepared to discuss how to compensate for noise through exposure settings and software.
Writing, Problem Solving or Performance
1. Photograph a single scene with two different slow shutter speeds and equivalent exposures. Compare the visual effects of each. 2. Using notes and images, evaluate all of the photographs made for under, over and correct exposure. Summarize your evaluation in the final notebook.
Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)
1. Create a portfolio of night and low-light photographs and prepare them for presentation during the final critique.
Required Materials
- Night Photography and Light Painting
- Author: Lance Keimig
- Publisher: Focal Press
- Publication Date: 2015
- Text Edition: 2nd
- Classic Textbook?:
- OER Link:
- OER:
- Photography: Night Sky: A Field Guide for Shooting after Dark
- Author: Wu and Martin
- Publisher: Mountaineers Books
- Publication Date: 2014
- Text Edition: 1st
- Classic Textbook?:
- OER Link:
- OER:
- HDR Photography: From Snapshots to Great Shots
- Author: Tim Cooper
- Publisher: Peachpit Press
- Publication Date: 2015
- Text Edition: 1st
- Classic Textbook?:
- OER Link:
- OER:
- Photography: A 21st Century Practice
- Author: Chen and Shannon
- Publisher: Routledge
- Publication Date: 2020
- Text Edition: 1st
- Classic Textbook?:
- OER Link:
- OER:
Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.
Students must furnish digital storage media.
