Defining the concept of photography might seem straightforward, but what about when it comes to cinematography, scriptwriting, or directing? In an adapting world and industry, the program formerly known as photography has adopted the name Photo- and Lens- Based Design to encompass other fields of art using lenses.
“Our program acknowledges that it’s transitioning from one type of image based making, which is photography, and moving into other areas that are related,” says Area Head Robert Machoian Graham. In the industry itself, many creators have already begun defining themselves as “image-makers.” In the future, it’s possible putting a singular label on art may be limiting for creation.
“The decision was influenced by our desire for students to understand our Area in the college is not singularly focused,” says Machoian Graham. This focus on broadening definitions isn’t only conceptual, it is giving students powerful and practical skills for the future.
“The industry is looking for Content Creators that use all the different tools of the media to communicate, whether it’s stills, gifs, cinemographs, video, stop motion, 2D animation or other forms. All of them matter.”
With a new vision for the future, the Photo- and Lens- Based Design program is looking to make a change that isn’t in name only. New emphases and perspectives will give students a wide variety to give them advantages and opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
