American University, Washington, DC (2011 – present)
Principles of Photography - Introduction to basic technical and aesthetic principles of photography, from loading film into a 35mm camera to developing and printing final images. Students practice basic black and white laboratory work as well as digital skills.
Visual Literacy - Visual Literacy introduces students to ways of understanding visual images in art, photography, film, and digital media. Students learn about the aesthetics and production of visual images, immerse yourself in dimensions of seeing, and come to appreciate the influences on visual symbols and communication.
Advanced Photography (independent study advisor) – A refinement of darkroom photographic skills emphasizing a synthesis of craft and expression. Students study both the history and the theory of fine art photography as well as learning how to use alternative processes as a mode of expression.
Other – Faculty Advisor for the American University Photo Collective.
University of the District of Columbia, Washington, DC (2010 – present)
Documentary Photography - This course explores the meaning of photojournalism/documentary photography and the importance of the visual image as a tool for communicating ideas and information. Students develop an appreciation for, and an understanding of, photography as a craft using light, (or the lack of) form, composition, and motion. Students will also explore the field of Social Documentary studying both the history of Documentary Photography as well as the ethical challenges present in the field. During the semester, the class will work together to create an online photography magazine.
Basic Photography - Using conceptual thinking and basic compositional elements, students will learn how to create and analyze photography as visual communication tools. Students will be exposed to the principles and techniques of using the basic 35-mm camera, film processing, darkroom printing as well as the ability to critically analyze creative works from the viewpoints of form, style, and meaning. Students will also be introduced to both historical and contemporary examples of photography and related media.
Other - Manage Photo Club website
Other (2010 – present)
Street Photography Intensive (Maine College of Art Continuing Studies, Portland, ME) – Street photography captures and depicts the character of a city, and photographers are constantly creating portraits of the city at a particular point in time. This photography course introduces students to the concepts, history, and techniques of street photography. Students will use the camera to discover public places in the greater Portland area and will collectively make a portrait of the area in the form of both a class website and an exhibition at MECA. Designed for beginning as well as experienced photographers, the class balances individual and group activities and allows for hands-on assistance for all participants. The schedule includes presentations, group and individual shooting trips, and review/feedback sessions. Optional evening activities will be scheduled to broaden the range of subject matter. View class portfolio online at www.MaineStreetPhotography.com.
Photography + Place - What does it mean to know a place? How can we use the camera to document place? Through a series of weekly readings, discussions, and photography projects, participants will use the camera as a means to discover and explore notions of space and place. Designed for beginning as well as experienced photographers, this eight week class balances historical and conceptual discussions with group critique sessions.