Bachelor of Fine Arts

B.F.A. / Photography Concentration

Photography is a contributing medium to much of the innovative work currently being pursued in the visual arts. Studies in photography consist of a careful balance between the development of the student's personal interests and the acquisition of technical skills. As each student moves through the concentration they build a command of technique, meet the challenges of aesthetic debate, learn about opportunities for work after graduation, and are given some of the essential business information which will help them survive and prosper in the professional market.

Courses include:

  • Bookmaking with non-silver printing
  • Color
  • Documentary and photojournalism
  • Internship with a commercial studio or regional gallery
  • Studio lighting
  • View-camera

In addition, students will take at least one digital imaging course. Our equipment in both traditional and digital imaging is housed in purpose-built studios. Many students aiming for a commercial career will also take a course in Winthrop's highly respected College of Business Administration.

During their time in the program each student has ample opportunity to identify the direction for their professional career. This decision is arrived at after experiencing a broad range of studio activities, from being required to work on highly structured projects to becoming capable of generating independent work, all the time working closely with professionals in the field. Part-time instructors are hired to bring commercial practice to a classroom setting.

The range of careers available with a photography degree is quite astounding, including:

  • Architectural
  • Editorial
  • Fashion
  • Film and video
  • Food
  • Photojournalism
  • Product
  • Studio portraiture
  • Television

Recent graduates now work as commercial studio assistants, fine art gallery representatives, one medical photographer, in newspapers, custom-lab printing, computer generated imaging, and as exhibiting fine artists.

Student Work

Photography Program Works (pdf - 2.92 MB)

Contact Information

Mark Hamilton
207 McLaurin Hall
803/323-2671
hamiltonm@winthrop.edu