Widening the Lens: A New History of Seeing (Online)

This seminar traces photography's history from its earliest light-sensitive experiments to today's algorithmically generated images, exploring how photographers have shaped meaning through composition, light, and perspective. As we delve into the history of photography-from traditional narrative voices to those of women and others usually relegated to the footnotes-participants learn to decode visual language, recognize bias, and build ethical frameworks for seeing critically and creating with intention. With synthetic images becoming increasingly indistinguishable from photographs, this historical grounding is essential. Participants gain the critical literacy and creative agency needed to navigate the AI age with clarity and purpose.

Course Level / Prerequisite: Open to all skill levels. Students ranging from beginner to experienced will be successful in classes that are Open to All Skill Levels.

Courses are subject to minimum enrollment. Please register early, within five days of the start-date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation and to ensure you receive all course-related materials in time to prepare for class.

Fee Breakdown