Visual Communication & Photography
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Program Highlights:
Two-Year NYSED Approved CTE Program
Students work with a variety of photographic equipment, as well as traditional and digital imaging software from the Adobe Creative Suite in a Mac-based environment. With an emphasis on creative thinking and visual problem solving, students explore and develop their creative voice. During the basic year, students acquire a comprehensive foundation of photographic and graphic design skills. The advanced year sees students refine and apply their skills in projects within the community and for a variety of outside clients. Students who successfully complete the program will be prepared for further study at the college level or entry-level positions in the industry.

Units of Study
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Basic (Year 1)
- Elements and Principles of Design
- Design Process & Professional Practice
- Drawing and Illustration Techniques
- Typography
- Layout and Composition
- Color Theory
- Adobe Creative Suite (ongoing unit of study)
- Branding & Identity Critique (ongoing unit of study)
- Portfolio Prep & Presentation
- Career Exploration
Advanced (Year 2)- Workflow and Camera Operation Review
- Sense of Place
- Text and Image
- Typography
- Principles of Design
- Portraits
- Layout
- Propaganda and Persuasion
- Shutterbabe; Photojournalism
- Fashion Photography and Design
- Outdoor Advertising
- Self-promotion; Portfolio
- Work Experience
Industry Based Exam/Certifications
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- Adobe Certified Associate–Photoshop, InDesign, or Illustrator
- Precision Exams
Credit
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High School Credit
- 3.5 CTE a.m./3.0 CTE p.m (max)
Includes:
1.0 English 12 (Advanced)
College—Dual Enrollment(View important details about dual enrollment.)
- Monroe Community College (3 credits)
- 3.5 CTE a.m./3.0 CTE p.m (max)
Connections
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Career Connections
- Animator
- Art Director
- Art Educator
- Art Therapist
- Exhibit/Environmental Designer
- Fine Artist
- Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
- Industrial Designer
- Interior Designer
- New Media Designer
- Photographer
College Programs
- Advertising Design
- Animation
- Digital Imaging
- Fine Art
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- New Media/Multimedia
- Photography
Items to Consider
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Successful Students:
- Thrive in a deadline-driven environment
- Accept and offer constructive criticism through the critique process
- Generate creative solutions to client-driven products
- Balance technical skills with concept development
Note:- A post-secondary degree is generally required for employment in this field
- 12th grade students with portfolios and extensive experience in related courses may qualify for placement in the Advanced Course.