The photography program at JMU encourages an experimental and interdisciplinary approach to image making. The curriculum reflects a commitment to traditional photography, (including 35mm manual camera basics, black and white darkroom skills using silver gelatin-based film and printing paper), yet also embraces advances in digital imaging and emerging technologies.<br>We emphasize the interplay between craft, material and content. Students are encouraged to take risk while developing ideas based on personal, historical and theoretical perspectives. We offer a variety of courses at intermediate and advanced levels each semester, students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty to explore their emerging ideas in the context of contemporary art practice.<br><br>We believe that making art generates expansive thinking and promotes a deeper understanding of the environment we live in. We seek to enable students to be skilled both technically and conceptually and to truly engage with the world.