Photography
Photography
The Solano Community College Photography program is designed to help students build both technical proficiency and creative vision in the field of photography. Students may choose from two degree pathways:
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Professional Photography Option – Focuses on the skills needed for careers in studio, portrait, commercial, and event photography. Students gain experience with lighting, composition, digital editing, and client-based projects to prepare for professional practice.
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Photo Illustration Option – Emphasizes the creative and conceptual aspects of photography, blending visual storytelling with design. Students explore fine art photography, creative direction, and advanced digital tools to bring unique ideas to life.
Both options combine hands-on learning with industry-standard software and equipment, ensuring students graduate with a professional portfolio that reflects their skills and personal style.
Capture moments, create stories, and turn your vision into art.
The Photography program at Solano Community College offers pre-employment training that prepares students for both self-employment and positions in the private and public sectors. The curriculum covers a wide range of photographic fields, including advertising illustration, industrial, portrait, medical, commercial, photojournalism, and landscape photography.
Through hands-on instruction and the use of industry-standard equipment, students gain the technical expertise and creative skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive photography industry. The program emphasizes professional practice, portfolio development, and the ability to adapt to multiple photographic disciplines.
Degrees & Certificates — Photography at Solano
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Certificate of Achievement in Professional Photography
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Awarded upon completion of the 24-unit photography major, with a minimum grade of C (or P) required in each course.
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Associate in Arts Degree (A.A.) in Photography
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Earned by completing the 24-unit photography major, associated General Education courses, and electives, totaling a minimum of 60 units. A grade of C (or P) is required in each major course.
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Both options are part of a gainful employment program intended to prepare students for diverse careers in fields such as advertising illustration, industrial, portraiture, medical, commercial, photojournalism, and landscape photography.
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Portrait / Commercial Photographer — Creating polished images for clients, advertising, studios, or businesses.
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Photojournalist / Press Photographer — Capturing news events for print, digital, or broadcast media.
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Scientific / Industrial Photographer — Producing detailed images in lab, medical, or industrial settings.
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Camera Operator — Filming for television, film, corporate productions, or online media.
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Photo Editor / Digital Content Manager — Curating, editing, and managing photographic content across media platforms.
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Drone / Aerial Photographer — Capturing overhead imagery for real estate, mapping, environmental monitoring, and marketing.
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Fashion, Travel, Wildlife, or Stock Photographer — Specializing in niche markets like fashion shoots, nature scenes, or travel media.
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Conservation Photographer — Applying photography to environmental advocacy and habitat preservation.
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Art & Exhibit Photographer — Documenting exhibits, artworks, or architectural designs for museums, galleries, and cultural organizations.
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Commercial Video or Digital Media Producer — Combining photography with film, graphics, and social media for multimedia storytelling.