Imaging & Printmaking
About the Class
A year-long exploration of digital DSLR photography and fine art printmaking — from exposure fundamentals to editioning original prints.
Course Overview
Imaging & Printmaking is a full-year studio art course that develops technical skill and artistic vision across two disciplines. Students learn to operate DSLR cameras in manual mode, understand light and composition, edit RAW files in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and produce finished photographic prints. Alongside photography, students explore fine art printmaking — relief, screen printing, monoprinting, and alternative photographic processes — building a diverse portfolio of original, editioned works.
Philosophy
Every image is a decision. Every print is a commitment. This course asks students to slow down, look carefully, and make intentional choices — whether they are setting exposure on a DSLR or carving a linocut block. Technical mastery and creative risk-taking go hand in hand here.
Expectations
- Come prepared — charged batteries, formatted cards, and materials ready before class.
- Respect the equipment — cameras, darkroom enlargers, and printmaking tools are shared resources.
- Follow darkroom and studio safety protocols at all times.
- Submit work on time — late projects lose 10% per day.
- Participate in critiques — giving and receiving feedback is part of the artistic process.
- Keep a visual journal — sketches, test prints, and contact sheets belong in your process documentation.
Grading
Finished photographic prints, printmaking editions, and mixed-media works evaluated on craft, concept, and effort.
Contact sheets, test strips, sketches, and visual journal entries showing your working process.
Active engagement in class critiques, peer feedback, and studio discussions.
Written reflections connecting your creative choices to your finished work.