Nature Photography
Academic Noncredit

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of landscape photography through both classroom instruction and immersive field experience in Utah's stunning natural settings. Designed for beginners to intermediates looking to improve their DSLR skills, the course emphasizes practical techniques and environmental awareness. Students will learn how to use DSLR cameras effectively, understand and apply the exposure triangle (ISO, shutter speed, and aperture), and explore various natural lighting techniques such as backlighting, side lighting, and front lighting. Emphasis will be placed on composition and framing methods to enhance visual storytelling. The course also covers techniques for astrophotography and night sky exposure. In addition to developing technical skills, students will cultivate a strong sense of environmental responsibility. Through discussion and practice, they will become familiar with the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and how to apply them when shooting in natural environments. The course includes one in-class session and a weekend field trip with drive-up camping and guided hikes, offering students the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world outdoor settings.

This noncredit class meets with a regular University of Utah credit course. Students can purchase any assigned hardcopy textbooks through our Campus Bookstore.