Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - CA 265 D100

Methods and Concepts: Photo-based Practices (3)

Class Number: 5152

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Mon, Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    DT VSAR

  • Instructor:

    Sessional

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 160. A course materials fee is required.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A studio course introducing photographic practices as they relate to practical, conceptual, aesthetic and historical issues in contemporary art.

COURSE DETAILS:

This studio course is a technical, historical, and conceptual introduction to photography. It offers students digital photography production experience and immerses them in the discourses surrounding contemporary photography theories and practices.
No prior experience is required as this course is intended to prepare students for further exploration of the potential of the medium of photography.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Based on lectures, discussion, tutorials and software training students will:

  • Have knowledge of key historical, critical, and theoretical developments pertaining to photography.
  • Acquire a range of technical skills including camera controls, shooting techniques, lighting, editing, and printing photographs.
  • Learn about significant photography works and photographers from diverse background.
  • Understand the potential of the medium of photography and its relation to other forms of art.
  • Be able to apply their knowledge to conceptualize and produce a professional body of photography work and incorporate that with other media.
  • Develop the skill of critically seeing and analyzing photography works within historical and cultural context.
  • Acquire theoretical and critical terminology relevant to photography.
  • Ability to present their work and critically engage with their colleagues works.

Grading

  • Project #1 15%
  • Project #2 20%
  • Research/Presentation 20%
  • Project #3 - Final 25%
  • Participation - quizzes 10%
  • Exercises (in and out of class) 10%

REQUIREMENTS:

  • A digital camera with manual control functions (Some digital cameras are available at the school sign-out office).
  • External hard drive, at least 500 GB.
  • SD or CF card and card reader for transferring digital files from the camera to the Media Lab.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Assigned readings will be provided as PDF files or through library links.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.