Visual Journalism and Photography (VJP)
VJP 101 Influence of the Photograph 3 Hours
A study of the prevalence and impact of photographs that are disseminated throughout social media and traditional publications. Beyond analyzing the creation and structure of photographs, special emphasis and discussion will focus on how these images inform and persuade society. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 131 Fundamentals of Photography 3 Hours
Introduces students to the principles of photography, including exposure, composition, light, and moments, through demonstrations, field assignments, and class critiques. A DSLR, mirrorless camera, or high-quality, adjustable point-and-shoot camera is required (no cell phone cameras). Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH
Course Fee: $90
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 261 Mobile Media Storytelling 3 Hours
Online journalistic storytelling using photographs, words, audio, video, screen design, and data visualization. Weekly assignments explore the context of visual outlets, including social media and community engagement. Smartphone required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-AH | AH
Course Fee: $60
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 330 Short Form Documentary 3 Hours
Analysis and hands-on application of visual storytelling, editing techniques, and story structure, primarily used in the documentary video genre. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 131 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $125
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 331 Photojournalism 3 Hours
The practice of photojournalism as a means of storytelling through multiple-picture fieldwork projects in the community, caption writing, presentation, portfolio development, and ethical decision-making. Off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 131 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) or Visual Journalism Photograph (752)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
VJP 332 Picture Editing 3 Hours
A study of the process of making informed and ethical decisions concerning the publication of still images and video. Topics include picture choice, editing software, traditional, and online presentation design, and the role of the picture editor in various media platforms.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 131 with a minimum grade of C or VJP 261 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Journalism (736) , Photojournalism (750) , Photojournalism (Seeking Adm) (750P) , Visual Journalism Photograph (752) or Visual Jour Photo (Seek Adm) (752P)
Course Fee: $125
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 333 Studio Lighting 3 Hours
Application of techniques using lighting in the studio and on location. Weekly assignments include portraits, products and illustrations. Ethical implications of lighting techniques discussed. DSLR or mirrorless camera and external hard drive required.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 131 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) , Photojournalism (Seeking Adm) (750P) , Visual Journalism Photograph (752) or Visual Jour Photo (Seek Adm) (752P)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
VJP 390 Cultural History of Photography 3 Hours
Students will gain an understanding of the impact of the photographic image in different media, how photography has played a significant role in recording history since the 19th Century, and how the evolution of visual media has changed our perception of the world. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Course Fee: $90
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 430 Advanced Short Form Documentary 3 Hours
An advanced, project-based application of documentary storytelling, editing, narrative structure, and journalistic ethics, with peer review and critique. Weekly assignments direct the student to understand a structured approach to the genre. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 330 with a minimum grade of C and VJP 331 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) or Visual Journalism Photograph (752)
Course Fee: $125
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023
VJP 431 Advanced Photojournalism 3 Hours
Application and development of advanced visual storytelling skills, including multiple-picture projects; covering news, features, sports, and portraits; writing; online presentation; interpersonal communication; and ethical decision-making. Off campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 330 with a minimum grade of C and VJP 331 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) or Visual Journalism Photograph (752)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
VJP 433 Advanced Lighting 3 Hours
On-location lighting and advanced studio techniques. Emphasis placed on portraits, commercial, editorial and illustrative photography. Final project includes a lighting portfolio. Off-campus transportation, small systems strobes, DSLR or mirrorless camera and external hard drive required.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 333 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) , Photojournalism (Seeking Adm) (750P) , Visual Journalism Photograph (752) or Visual Jour Photo (Seek Adm) (752P)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
VJP 436 Photojournalism and Documentary Projects 3 Hours
Capstone for Photojournalism and Documentary major. Emphasis on long-term projects based on critical thinking and journalistic ethical discussion. A student portfolio is presented to reflect mastery of skills. Guest lecturers from the visual industry enhance student learning. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR, or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
Prerequisite(s): VJP 430 with a minimum grade of C or VJP 431 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Photojournalism (750) or Visual Journalism Photograph (752)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None