Session 3, Advanced Digital Photography

This course is for students with a fundamental knowledge of digital photography who want to push themselves technically and conceptually. Students will be asked to challenge photographic cliches and the function of enhanced digital techniques while deepening their understanding of digital workflow, photo manipulation, Adobe Photoshop editing, and digital output. The course starts with projects that explore the possibilities in digital photography, such as collage, montage/compositing, time-lapse, long exposure, and still-to-video, ultimately focusing on the skills necessary to complete individually-driven final projects. Students research photography's potential and limitations as a language when looking to historical artists like Moholy-Nagy, Hannah Hoch, and Gordon Matta-Clark, combined with contemporary artists such as Daniel Gordon, Steffi Klenz, and Erin Shirreff. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago's world-renowned photographic print study room, the Museum of Contemporary Photography, and regular critiques supplement the studio experience. Using the city of Chicago as both subject and inspiration, students will explore and respond to its architecture, culture, and visual energy as an experience made possible only in a city with such a rich photographic legacy. 

NOTE: Previous experience in digital photography, including knowledge of manual camera functions/exposure, digital workflow, photographic vocabulary, and basic Adobe Photoshop editing, is required. Students must provide their own digital SLR camera with manual functions (no point-and-shoot). SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a laptop with software for after-studio hours and homework.

2.0 College Credits
Full Tuition Cost: $3,816

This cost does not reflect any potential Merit Scholarship or need-based financial aid the student may be awarded. Housing and meal plan rates are still being finalized for 2026 and are estimated to be $675 a week.

Registration Deadline is noon on Monday, June 29th.

There are two registration options for this course. Call us at 312.629.6170 or email cs@saic.edu if you have any questions! We're happy to help.

Option 1: Pay in full now.
Select this option if you do not wish to apply for scholarships and are ready to pay tuition in full now. The full cost of the program includes a $100 non-refundable tuition deposit. Please note, current housing and meal plan fees are estimates, and you will receive a final bill once 2026 rates have been finalized.

Option 2: Apply for aid/scholarships and pay a $100 non-refundable tuition deposit.
Select this option if you would like to apply for a merit scholarship and/or financial aid scholarship. Once you have been notified of your potential award amounts, we will share instructions on how to pay the remaining balance.