Intro to Photography Syllabus

Instructor: Fred Van Etten

Email: fvanett1@asu.edu

Class Hours:
Session 1: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 12:35 - 1:25
Session 2: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 1:30-2:20

Course Information:

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of photography. Topics include:
● The Exposure Triangle: Aperture, Shutter Speed and ISO
● Camera Controls
● Best Practices for using their photographic equipment
● Techniques for subjects such as Landscapes, Sports and Portraits
● Digital Image File Management
● Basic Image Editing Techniques
Classes will vary between Lectures, Demonstrations and Studio Time. During Studio Time,
students will practice the concepts presented in lectures and demonstrations.

Required Equipment
● Each student needs their own full-feature camera, not a point-and-shoot or phone
camera. The camera needs to have settings for ISO, shutter speed and aperture.
● Battery and charger
● Camera Instruction Manual (paper or electronic)
● Each student needs at least one “zoom lens” or two or more variable focal length lenses.
Most dSLR (digital single lens reflex) or ILC (interchangeable lens camera) are supplied
with a “kit zoom” that is sufficient for this class
● 8GB or larger memory card and a card reader for transferring images to their computer

Recommended but not required

We will be using “Photos for Mac” for file management and editing. I recommend the book “The
Apple Photos Book for Photographers, 2nd Edition” by Derrick Story. It is available in
paperback and e-book versions.

Homework
Most work for Intro to Photography will be done in class during studio time. Some assignments
will need to be performed outside of school hours but the time required should be minimal.

Assessment and Assignment Grading

Students will be assessed at least bi-weekly on studio habits (including class engagement) and
on assignments and projects. Grades will be calculated using total points over the entire
semester. Students will not be graded on artistic ability, but, rather, their application of the
techniques and information presented by the instructor. Students will compile work in a portfolio
throughout the year. Students have the opportunity to revisit pieces in their portfolio if they
would like to make changes or attempt to earn a higher grade.

Grade Scale
100-97 A+
96-93 A
92-90 A-
89-87 B+
86-83 B
82-80 B-
79-77 C+
76-73 C
73-70 C-
69-67 D+
66-63 D
62-60 D-
59-0 F

Late or Missing Assignments

Late work will result in a 10% grade deduction for each school day after the announced due
date that the assignment is late. If the assignment is not submitted within five school days of
the due date, the assignment may not receive more than 50% of the original value. This does
not apply to final semester grade deadlines. Students are responsible for work assigned during
an absence; they have one day extra for each day of an excused absence to make up missing
work. Any work assigned before an absence is due immediately upon return.

Student Conduct:
It is expected that students exhibit appropriate behavior in all settings while at HYSA. If at any
time a student’s behavior does not meet those expectations, appropriate action will be taken
according to the HYSA Discipline Policy.

Academic Integrity/Plagiarism:
HYSA follows Arizona State University’s policies on academic integrity and plagiarism. In the
event of academic dishonesty, students will be referred to either the HYSA Discipline Policy or
the discipline committee of Arizona State University depending on the situation.

Arizona State University policy states “The highest standards of academic integrity are expected
of all students. The failure of any student to meet these standards may result in suspension or
expulsion from the university and/or other sanctions as specified in the academic integrity
policies of the individual academic unit. Violations of academic integrity include, but are not
limited to, cheating, fabrication, tampering, plagiarism, or facilitating such activities.

For more information see: http://provost.asu.edu/academicintegrity

Electronic Communication/Technology:
HYSA follows Arizona State University’s policy on acceptable use of university computers,
internet, and electric communications. This can be found in the Student Code of Conduct
(http://asu.edu/aad/manuals/usi/usi104-01.html) as well as the University’s Computer, Internet,
and Electronic Communication Policy (http://www.asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd125.html).
Please also refer to the HYSA Technology Policy.

Students who violate these policies will be referred to either the HYSA Discipline Policy or the
discipline committee of Arizona State University.

Cell phones are expected to be silenced and out of sight while in class unless otherwise
directed by the teacher for educational purposes. Students who do not follow the policy will be
subject to the HYSA Discipline Policy.