Founded in the early 1980s, this nationally accredited Seattle-based photography school offers courses, workshops, certificate programs and BFA courses for photographers of all levels and abilities. The Photographic Center Northwest boasts two large black-and-white labs, a digital lab, reference library, one of the area's only public color darkrooms, two additional spaces dedicated to studio lighting, a gallery for exhibits and a full auditorium. Sample classes include Photography I: Black and White, Contemporary Color Practice, Documenting Live Music In Seattle and Advanced Color Seminar: The Portrait. The center also rents out its facilities for use by students and members; photographers younger than 16 need permission from the director of education.
Photographic Center Northwest
900 12th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98122
206-720-7222
pcnw.org
Located in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, Seattle Central Community College offers a two-year course in commercial photography that includes a wide range of classes for the developing photographer. Students choose from classes such as Darkroom Techniques I, Digital Imaging, Advanced Photographic Techniques and Portfolio Preparation. In order to complete the program, students take 12 additional credits in related courses in business, liberal arts and visual arts. Students who graduate from the commercial photography program pursue jobs in commercial photography, advertising, freelance photography and journalism. Previous photography experience is not required, but related experience in visual arts and design will help a student succeed in the program.
Seattle Central Community College
1701 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
206-587-3800
seattlecentral.edu
Founded in 1965, Spokane Falls Community College's two-year photography program provides students with the necessary skills and certification to become professional photographers. Students who complete the program go on to jobs in corporate communications, portraiture, photo-journalism and commercial illustration. First-year students focus on the fundamentals of photography such as lighting, framing, concept and printing, while second-year students delve into long-term individual projects and study both historical and current trends in the industry. Courses include Introduction to Photography, Portraiture, Fashion Photography and Color Lab. Courses are designed with the guidance of employers and professionals to correspond to industry standards and demands. This program helps students develop their career goals in addition to learning the basics of the trade.
Spokane Falls Community College
3410 W. Fort George Wright Drive
Spokane, WA 99224
509-533-3500
spokanefalls.edu