Photography Syllabus & Subjects 2024

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Feb 20, 2024 00:02AM IST

Photography Syllabus Overview

Photography subjects include Photojournalism, Working with ISO, Aperture, and Exposure, Depth of Field, Conceptual Photography, Studio and Lights, etc. As technology continues to advance, Photography has become more than a hobby; it is a powerful creative discipline that deserves training and study. The number of applicants choosing to study for a formal Photography course is increasing. Taking a Photography course offers candidates the opportunity to learn how to take excellent photographs using suitable light, know what parts of your camera work best, and much more.

To take Photography admission into an undergraduate course, a candidate must have completed the 12th grade while a bachelor's degree is required for postgraduation. However, in this area skills are considered to be more important than diplomas, degrees, or certificates for a Photography course. Nevertheless, if you choose to take part in a photography program, it can enhance your skills and shape the future by helping you become an exceptional photographer.

In addition, students are also motivated to build a portfolio that reflects their unique style as well as their understanding of technique, space, light, color, and composition. After the completion of a course, graduates can find various photography jobs including Photojournalists, Fashion Photographer, Event Photographer, Freelance Photographer, Feature Photographers, Fine Art Photographers, and more. Photograpy salary for a beginner can range from INR 1.5 lakh to INR 2 lakh per annum. Now let us discuss the Photography syllabus in detail.

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Common Photography Subjects for Different Courses

Photography has become one of the most exciting choices among students who wish to show their creative side by capturing images that are worth a thousand words. Many institutes and online learning platforms offer undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses that allow candidates to learn the nuances of Photography. Here are the common Photography subjects for different types of courses available in India.

History of PhotographyPhotoshopNatural and Artificial Photographic Light Sources
Photo CorrectionsFilm Cameras and ProcessingPortrait Photography
SensorsStudio LightingPhotographic Optics
Wildlife, Fashion, and Photo JournalismDifferent Parts of the CameraClose-up Accessories and Techniques
Color FiltersSelection of ShotsPhoto Tools
Basics of Digital PhotographyApplications of Portrait PhotographySports Photography
Glamour and Fashion Photography and its BasicsApplications of Digital PhotographySocial Documentary and Photojournalism
Photographing Fine-ArtAutomobile PhotographyPhotography of Architecture and interiors
Factory and Corporate PhotographyOn-Location PhotographyDigital Printing
Nature PhotographyDesigning softwareConceptual Photography
Introduction to Food PhotographyCareers & Portfolio Making-
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Photography Syllabus for Undergraduate Courses

There are various undergraduate Photography courses that candidates can enroll in after completing class 12th. The Photography syllabus for different types of undergraduate courses has been mentioned below.

Syllabus for BFA Photography

Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3Semester 4Semester 5Semester 6
  • Basic Post Production, Art, and Visualization
  • Communication Theories
  • Digital Photography Applications
  • Fundamentals of People and Portrait Photography
  • History and Basics of Digital Photography
  • Integrated Disaster Management
  • Social Photography and Photojournalism
  • Advanced Post Production
  • Basic Tabletop and Fine Art Photography
  • Basics of Fashion and Glamour Photography
  • Creative Writing and Service Learning
  • Creative Applications of People and Portrait Photography
  • Sports Photography and Visualization in Photography
  • Art Design
  • Advanced Tabletop Photography, Fashion, and Glamour Photography
  • Food, Conceptual, Wildlife, and Nature Photography
  • Global Immersion Program
  • Inertial and Architectural Photography
  • Travel and Landscape Photography
  • Automobile Photography
  • Application of live views of DSLR Cameras
    Digital Printing
  • Designing Software and Exhibition Displays
  • Editing and Feature Writing
  • Factory and Corporate Photography
  • Introduction to Culture and India
  • Project Art Design
  • Photo Appreciation and Archiving
  • Curation, Review, and Creative Color Concepts
  • Innovative Image Development
  • Project Work
  • Appreciations of Creative Imaging
  • Learning and Creating Exhibition Displays
  • Portfolio Making and Photography Promotions
  • Internship

Syllabus for B.Sc Photography and Cinematography

Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3Semester 4Semester 5Semester 6
  • Film Packaging & Dimensions & Motion Pictures
  • History of Photography
  • Introduction of Media
  • Media Technology
  • Processing and Printing
  • Pre-Production Techniques
  • Screening of Films
  • Cameras for Motion Picture
  • Color Theory and Psychology
  • Digital Imaging-I (Light-Room)
  • Fundamentals of Composition
  • Media Aesthetics & Media Psychology
  • Transfer of Film to Video
  • Technical English and Report Writing
  • Interdisciplinary Elective-I
  • Advertising & Aerial Photography
  • Digital Film Production & Digital Imaging II - Photoshop
  • Media Management
  • Practicals
  • Interdisciplinary Elective II
  • Career Development
  • Practicals
  • Interdisciplinary Elective III
  • Digital Marketing
  • Practicals
  • Summer Internship Project (In-company Work, Report & Presentations)
  • Interdisciplinary Elective IV
  • Internship
  • Batteries for Motion Picture Cameras
  • Color Correction, Film Printing, Negatives, and Intermediate Film
  • Digital Postproduction
  • Practicals
  • Elective
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Photography Syllabus for Postgraduate Courses

Take a look at the syllabus taught during different postgraduate Photography courses.

Syllabus for MFA Photography

Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3Semester 4
  • History of European Art-I
  • Advertising Principles and Practices
  • Occidental Aesthetics-I
  • Visualization/ Illustration/ Photography (Anyone)
  • Creative Painting/ Mural Design/ Portrait/ Landscape (Anyone)
  • History of European Art-II
  • Advertising Principles and Practices-II
  • Occidental Aesthetics-II
  • Visualization/ Illustration/ Photography (Anyone)
  • Creative Painting/ Mural Design/ Portrait/ Landscape (Anyone)
  • History of Modern Indian Art-I
  • Advertising (Principles and practices)- III
  • Oriental Aesthetics-I
  • Visualization-III/Illustration-III/Photography-III
  • History of Modern Indian Art-II
  • Advertising (Principles and practices)- IV
  • Oriental Aesthetics-II
  • Visualization-IV/Illustration-IV/Photography-IV

Syllabus for MA in Still Photography

Semester 1Semester 2Semester 3Semester 4
  • Evolution of photography over the years
  • Old work process Vs new style of working
  • Basic management principles
  • Techniques of still photography
  • Nature of light and its sources
  • Basic Optics like lenses, shutter & aperture, framing, etc.
  • Digital imaging technology & techniques
  • Concept, application, and importance of Photoshop
  • Introduction to advertising and its various forms
  • Function, meaning, and artistic qualities of graphic design
  • Design software like Adobe Illustrator, In-design, etc.
  • Importance of photography in news reporting
  • Importance of infographics in print media
  • Documentaries and photo series
  • Catalog and campaign shoots for brands
  • Real estate photography Vs architectural photography
  • History of fashion photography and contemporary fashion photography
  • Relevance of moving images in fashion and lifestyle, Cinemagraph, Shooting Editorial
  • How to creatively present a food picture with an appealing and tantalizing look
  • Use of light in storytelling
  • Lighting modifiers, Lighting gear, and Studio lighting kits
  • Basics of operating a video camera
  • Understanding the process of video editing for films and TV production based on scripts
  • Introduction to Motion Graphics and visual effects techniques
  • Laws and ethics that govern media professionals
  • Fundamentals of media market research
  • Producing Final portfolio
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Photography Syllabus for Diploma Courses

After passing Class 12th exams, candidates can enroll in diploma Photography courses and learn about the field to kickstart their career. Here are some of the common Photography subjects for different diploma courses.

Basics of PhotoshopPortfolio ProductionBasic Lighting and Flash techniques
Advanced Lighting TechniquesWriting for PhotographyBasics of Digital Photography
History of Photography 1History of Photography 2Photojournalism
Documentary Photography 1Documentary Photography 2Portraiture: Environmental/Location
Introduction to Image MakingStreet PhotographyCreative Writing
Studio PortraitureStill LifeCommercial Photography
Research: Theory and PracticeDocumentary Research and Project-
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Photography Syllabus for Certificate Courses

Various institutes and online learning platforms offer certificate courses in Photography that offer students an understanding of different subjects crucial to becoming a professional photographer. Take a look at the common Photography subjects for certificate courses provided in the table below.

Fundamentals of Photo EditingAperture & Shutter SpeedStudio Lighting Techniques
Outdoor PhotographyPrinciples of PhotographyPortrait & Product Photography
Depth of FieldFraming & CompositionWorking with ISO & Exposure
Auto & Manual FocusStill LifeStreet Photography
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Photography Core Subjects

Mentioned below are some of the course subjects taught during various Photography courses.

Photography SubjectDetails  
Basics of Digital PhotographyThis subject will cover various photography topics, including camera operation, shutter speed, histograms, depth of field, white balance, long exposures, focus, and timelapse photography, as well as detailed information on different types of camera lenses.
Applications of Portrait PhotographyThe aim of this subjec is to enhance students' ability in capturing stunning individual or group photo portraits by utilizing proper lighting, effective backgrounds, and ideal poses.
Conceptual PhotographyThe subject is contemporary art that presents images predominantly in their conceptual form. The topic is secondary to the idea of the image, according to his type of photography.
On-Location PhotographyOn-location photography is a photograph shoot that can be done anywhere but in front of the studio. It teaches students how to capture the best moments in a variety of settings, such as homes, hospitals, and party venues.
Sports PhotographyThe subject teaches students how to capture action shots and detailed photos of sports events.
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Photography Elective Subjects

During undergraduate and postgraduate Photography courses, students have to choose elective subjects depending on their area of interest. Here are some of the common elective Photography subjects introduces in different courses.

Photography SubjectDetails 
Vision Inspired PhotographyWhat can we do to get a true sense of what's in front of us? That's what the subject is telling us. It is necessary to know how to capture the mood and atmosphere in your images so that you can tell a story while living in a fast-paced world.
Natural Light PortraitsThe subject briefs on simple ideas that facilitate image composition and posing and allow the conversion of an ordinary image into a remarkable one. 
The Evolution of PhotographyThis module covers the history of photography, where it began, how it started and gained popularity, its impact on the world, etc.
Photoshop AdvancedThrough this subject, students can fully understand the capabilities of Photoshop. The course covers software patches, healing brushes, and techniques for altering facial features like smiles, noses, and blemishes.
Portfolio of PhotographsIt is crucial to enable students to create their portfolios of photographs to show what they have worked on. It's a way to help people who may lack the skills to analyze where they can do better. If there is any room for improvement, this subject will help them identify it.
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Photography Specializations

Photography is an extensive field offering specialization in various areas. Listed below are some of the top specializations with the subjects one can choose while pursuing a Photography course.

SpecializationSubjects Details 
Portrait Photography
  • Lifestyle
  • Fine Art Portrait
  • Traditional, Environmental, and candid
By taking this specialized course, students can improve their photography skills and capture images of individuals, groups, and activities to preserve memories of their time here.
Photojournalism
  • Arrangements of objects
  • The natural world and abstractions
  • Focus on ‘What’ is a photograph: the topic, and image
The course enables students pursuing specialized study in this field to become proficient news photographers by producing news-format images for various platforms like blogs, websites, and newspapers.
Digital Imaging
  • Cinematography
  • Graphic and interior designer 
  • Computer Animation
  • Film
  • Music Production
Enroll in this specialized course to enhance color correction and digitally edit images for print or archiving. It will also simplify rendering of digital media.
Fashion Photography
  • Fashion and glamor photography
  • Natural Light Fashion / Beauty Photography
  • Editorial Fashion Photography
You can improve your photography skills with this subject that teaches you to capture the essence of any moment, edit photos, and produce a final product.
Event Photography
  • Camera settings
  • Artificial Light Photography
  • Picture Framing and Composition
  • Picture Processing with adobe photoshop 
Enhance your photography skills to capture the essence of any moment and occasion, while also mastering post-event editing and delivery of the final product.
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Important Photography Books

Photography is a practical skill, but to be able to acquire such an intricate skill, one needs to study it first. And what can be better than Photography books that offer abundant knowledge of various subjects? Listed below are some of the most important books that can provide insight into Photography syllabus and subjects to budding photographers.

Name of the BookAuthor Details
The Complete Guide to Digital PhotographyIan FarrellIn this book, there are 16 chapters that cover a range of topics related to photography, including camera kits and equipment, metering, focus, manual setting-ups, composition, lens, focal length, image resolution, and more.
Complete Encyclopedia of PhotographyMichael LangfordThe book enlightens aspiring photographers about different styles, techniques, processes, equipment, and practical applications of photography.
Color printing in practice Jack Taylor In this book, the author provides a comprehensive explanation of color printing, including technical details of photographic elements such as the diffusion system, Cibachrome technique, image transfer, color negatives, and more.
Hand Book of Photography (5th edition)Tom Ang The author provides practical advice to demystify the technical elements of digital photography and help readers capture impressive pictures every time. 
Basic Techniques of Photography- An Ansel Adams Guide Ansel Adams The book provides detailed insight into photography's basic principles, focusing on key chapters related to exposure, development, darkrooms, digital printing, and alternative methods such as cyan, gum, salt, or platinum lithography.
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FAQs about Photography Syllabus

What is included in Photography syllabus?

Photography syllabus typically covers fundamental topics such as camera operation, exposure settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), composition techniques, lighting, and basic post-processing.

What are the assessment methods in Photography courses?

Assessment methods in Photography courses may include assignments, quizzes, exams, practical projects, and a final portfolio. Some courses may also include peer evaluations and critiques.

Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in an advanced Photography course?

Advanced Photography courses may require prior completion of intermediate-level courses or submission of a portfolio demonstrating proficiency in basic Photography skills.

Will there be opportunities for creativity and personal projects in Photography?

Many Photography courses encourage creativity and personal projects. This might include assignments that allow you to explore your interests and develop a unique style.

What is a Photography syllabus?

A Photography syllabus is a structured outline or plan that details the topics, objectives, activities, and assessments for a Photography course. It serves as a roadmap for both students and instructors, guiding them through the learning process.

What equipment do I need for a Photography course?

The equipment requirements can be mentioned in the syllabus, but in general, you'll need a digital camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced compact), memory cards, a computer for post-processing, and potentially a tripod and external flash.

Is there a darkroom component in Photography syllabus?

While traditional Photography courses often included a darkroom component for developing film and printing photographs, many modern Photography courses focus primarily on digital Photography and post-processing techniques. However, some courses or programs may still offer darkroom sessions as an option or as part of specialized Photography programs.

What kind of assignments and projects can I expect in a Photography course?

Assignments in a Photography course may involve capturing specific subjects or themes, exploring different Photography techniques, and developing a portfolio of work. Projects may include portrait Photography, landscape Photography, street Photography, still life, and more.

Is post-processing and editing covered in Photography syllabus?

Post-processing and editing are essential aspects of modern Photography. Many Photography courses include lessons on image editing using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

Are there any recommended resources or textbooks mentioned in the Photography syllabus?

Photography syllabus might recommend textbooks, online resources, or additional reading material to supplement the course content. These resources can provide students with more in-depth knowledge and inspiration.

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