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Study Photography

Embrace or challenge tradition within a dynamic medium. Explore PNCA's photography program to learn about the endless possibilities of visual communication.

Program Snapshot

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Major, Minor

121

4 Years

PNCA Campus

Person taking a photo in a workshop, wearing a navy blue beanie and beige hoodie, with a large black backpack.

Our Photography Major and Minor

Take your photography skills to the next level and discover the world of image making. Gain the skills to examine and critique work. Build a foundation in analog and digital techniques, lighting strategies, and visual communication.

Why choose Photography at Pacific Northwest College of Art?

  • Equipment designed for creating. PNCA students can take advantage of the Digital Print Studio, Lighting Studio, Photo Lab, and Media Resource Center. Each facility has industry-standard resources to help you bring your ideas to life.
  • Support for every aspect. Through classes, workshops, the Office of Career Design and mentorship, you'll be ready to achieve your artistic goals.
  • Opportunity to explore. Embrace tradition or explore your own path. Our curriculum encourages students to connect different art forms and liberal art courses to their photography practice.

Schedule a Visit

Student Work

Display work in the various student-run galleries or showcase your photographs during events like First Thursday. Take advantage of opportunities like the Blue Sky Exhibition Committee to expand your network and skills. Students will build their portfolio through courses, projects, and their Senior Thesis.

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Alumni Stories

Our alumni are successful fine art, commercial, and editorial photographers, making a name for themselves within the art world. Learn more about their impact and roles within the rapidly changing field.

  • Person with curly hair and glasses wearing a brown puffer jacket in front of a white background.

    JD White

    Stop-motion and photography together
    JD White, a commercial still life photographer known for playful stop-motion animations, has clients including Adidas, VICELAND, Kind Snacks, and various Portland boutiques and designers.

  • Julie Orser Headshot

    Julie Orser

    Award-winning Artist and Professor
    Julie Orser, is an award-winning artist. Her videos, photography, and multi-channel installations have been shown widely internationally at venues like MoMA, Künstlerhaus Bethanien, and festivals such as Ann Arbor Film Festival. She co-founded ART OFFICE and teaches at CSU Fullerton.

Photography Faculty

Our faculty of accomplished artists offer support as you develop your ideas – and the skills to execute them. We also have visiting artists, speakers, and gallery walks to help students connect with figures in the arts community.

  • Meet Sally Schoolmaster

    Sally Schoolmaster, Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for Academic Success at PNCA, champions artistic growth in Photography and Foundation departments. With an MFA in Photography from Ohio University, she guides students in exploring social justice, environmentalism, and identity through photography.

    Headshot of Sally Schoolmaster
  • Meet Sarah Meadows

    Sarah Meadows, part-time faculty in Photography at PNCA, is an Oregon-based visual artist with an MFA from RISD and a BFA from PNCA. Her practice as an internationally exhibited artist and her teaching experience equip students with a diverse and comprehensive photography education.

    Headshot of Sarah Meadows
  • Meet Teresa Christiansen

    Teresa Christiansen, Associate Professor and Chair of Photography at PNCA, integrates her expertise in photography and psychology to foster student success. With extensive exhibition experience and a strong background in academic technology, she equips students with a comprehensive understanding of photographic studies and integrated technologies.

    Headshot of Teresa Christiansen

Curriculum

Balance technical skills with theory and critical analysis to develop your personal style and perspective. Our photography school explores how the language of photography can be a tool for social justice and cultural awareness.

  • PH274 Photographic Investigations

    Investigate fashion photography, analog practices, or product photography. Pursue a specific application of photography and participate in rich dialogue around historic and contemporary approaches.

  • PH371 Photographic Practice & Research

    Embark on a long-term project using a 4x5 view camera, and enjoy weekly one-on-one sessions with your instructor. Take part in readings and discussions focused on criticism and theory, spanning from the 1920s to contemporary times.

Program Requirements

Our Photography major requires 121 credits to complete the degree. This includes: 76 in studio, 30 in Liberal Arts and Sciences, and 15 in Art History. Of the studio credits, 16 are required courses in the Foundation program, at least 36 are the required courses in the studio major, and the remainder are available for studio electives. A minimum two-year residency at the College is required.

A person dressed in black walking into a photography studio
Admissions Information

Our Photography program is open to first-year students, transfer students, and international students. Learn more about PNCA’s undergraduate admissions process to get started.

Two individuals examine a sheet of photographic film negatives, one pointing at a specific frame.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Most students receive financial aid, ranging from scholarship opportunities to federal work study and need-based grants and loans. PNCA also considers photography students for full-tuition scholarships. PNCA is committed to a better future by providing fair and equitable admission processes. The BFA program automatically considers all students applying for merit-based scholarships. In addition, we also offer BFA Equity Scholarships, Juried Scholarships, Pre-College Scholarships, International Scholarships and Community College Transfer Partner/Transfer Agreement Scholarships.
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FAQs

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Photography