Course Overview
In this course, students will study camera tools and apply photographic techniques to their pictures. Topics explored include; aperture settings, ISO settings, shutter speeds, on and off camera flash, depth of field, lens choice and compositional concepts. Through lectures and lab time, students will also study lighting for portraiture, low light photography, how and when to use a tripod, and common camera settings including: histograms, self-timers, as well as camera sensor cleaning, and camera care.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
1.5
Domestic fees
$368.14
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
- Define the tools in a 35mm digital camera
- Analyze a photograph for technical details
- Apply compositional techniques into images
- Explore alternative lighting sources to create visual impact
- Evaluate a scene prior to capturing
- Develop a personal system of photo‐file management
- Enhance images using different camera settings and filters
- Differentiate between a strong image and a weak image
- Demonstrate the three main exposure tools
- Recognize the appropriate lighting conditions for the subject
Effective as of Fall 2013
Related Programs
Photography 1 (MDIA 1099) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Business + Media
- Digital Photography
Statement of Completion Part-time
- Media Techniques and Marketing Communications
Certificate Part-time
- Media Techniques for Business
Certificate Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of MDIA 1099 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 54316
Dates
Apr 07 - May 12 Loading
- CRN 54316
- $368.14 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 07 - May 12 | Tue | 18:00 - 21:00 | Online |
Duration
6 weeks
Instructor
Mark Whitehead
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Students must have access to a DSLR or Mirrorless camera system that has a lens and memory card, a tripod would also be recommended but not required. The camera system used must be able to provide full manual control over all settings as well as capture in camera RAW file format. Most DSLR or Mirrorless camera systems on the market would meet these criteria. This is not a self-paced course. You will be expected to be available and online on the posted days and times shown on your registration schedule. It is important you have a stable and consistent internet connection to access course content. Please log into learn.bcit.ca using your BCIT student email and password on the first day of class. You will require access to the Adobe Creative Cloud in order to complete this course. Students who are currently registered in one or more BCIT Flexible Learning courses are eligible for a free Adobe Creative Cloud subscription from BCIT. For subscription information, please visit: kb.bcit.ca/student/using-adobe-software-for-students-3588/
Confirmation
Required
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Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.