Photography
Apply for AdmissionWhy Study Photography
Our program provides superior instruction in aesthetic principles, practical techniques and artistic expression, with the foundation for college transfer, entry into the workplace or photography for personal enrichment.
Coursework includes traditional processing and printing, digital photography, color photography, studio lighting, experimental processes, photo criticism and portfolio preparation.
You are encouraged to develop a personal, expressive style, achieve technical excellence, and examine photography’s role in society.
An advisory board of industry leaders supports our department faculty with knowledge and expertise so that we continue to offer the appropriate marketable skills for students to successfully enter the workforce.
What you can do with a degree in Photography
A major in Photography can prepare you for:
- Freelance photographer
- Nature photographer
- Illustrator
- Photo studio manager
- Documentary photographer
- Graphic artist
Twenty-Four Blocks — Robert Kastigar
Photographer Robert Kastigar documents the resilience and everyday life of San Francisco’s historic Chinatown. This long-term project captures the people, culture, and connections that define its 24 square blocks. An intimate look at one of North America’s oldest and most enduring neighborhoods.
Learn more about Robert's work
Slavic San Francisco — Anastasiia Nelen
Documentary photographer Anastasiia Nelen explores Slavic identity, faith, and heritage in contemporary America. Through intimate storytelling, the project traces migration, memory, and community across generations. Discover a visual narrative shaped by history, culture, and belonging.
Learn more about Nelen's work
Questions About Credit vs. Non-Credit Classes
If you have questions about which path or certificate is right for you, contact Photography Department Chair Judy Walgren at walgrenjudith@fhda.edu.
Support Our Photography Programs
Your generosity will help with purchases, events, exhibitions, student awards and more.
We appreciate your support and donation!
Degrees & Certificates
View list below for programs offered at Foothill. Then select program map for a possible schedule that fulfills program and college requirements.
For program requirements and full course listings, view degrees and certificates information.
View academic catalog for Photography department certificate of proficiency requirements.
- Photo Criticism Skills Certificate
View academic catalog for Photography department certificate of completion requirements.
After five years of teaching myself, Foothill’s photography program provided the technical rigor and professional insight I was missing. It gave me the confidence to transition from a hobbyist to a business owner capable of taking on high-level professional jobs.
Michael MolcsanPhotography
Ways to Experience More!
At Foothill, we offer many opportunities to get involved outside the classroom.
Research & Service Leadership Symposium
Showcase your ideas and creativity at Foothill’s annual symposium, where students present research, service projects, and creative work through talks, posters, performances, and art exhibitions.
Global Experiential Learning
Travel, study, and gain real-world experience through Foothill’s faculty-led global programs. Explore new cultures, earn academic credit, and participate in service learning, research, and study abroad around the world.
Humanities Scholars Work Experience
Gain real-world experience through paid internships with mission-driven nonprofit organizations. Build professional skills, connect coursework to careers, and work with community partners across the region.
IDEA Lab
Create, record, and experiment in Foothill’s Interdisciplinary Electronic Arts Lab, a creative hub supporting music technology, media, photography, graphic design, and digital arts.
Related Programs and Degrees
