Capture the world through your lens and turn your passion into a profession with Barton’s Digital Photography program. This Associate in Arts degree blends creative expression with technical skill, preparing students for a wide range of careers in photography and visual media.
Through hands-on instruction, you’ll explore camera operations, lighting, editing techniques, and the principles of composition. Courses also introduce digital workflow, image processing, and portfolio development, ensuring you graduate with a strong foundation and a professional body of work.
Whether you’re aiming to become a freelance photographer, work in commercial photography, or continue your studies at a four-year institution, Barton provides the tools, support, and artistic environment to help you succeed.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
- Hands-On Learning with Pro Equipment
Train using professional-grade digital cameras, lighting gear, and editing software. - Small Class Sizes for Personalized Instruction
Receive one-on-one guidance and feedback to grow both creatively and technically. - Master Manual Photography Techniques
Learn to fully control your camera in manual mode for precise, artistic results. - Expert Faculty with Real-World Experience
Learn from instructors who are practicing photographers and artists. - Develop a Professional Portfolio
Graduate with a strong body of work ready to present to clients or transfer institutions. - Affordable Path to a Creative Career
Save money on tuition while building valuable skills in a high-demand creative field. - Seamless Transfer Opportunities
Earn your Associate in Arts and continue toward a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.
Career Pathways
Graduates of Barton's Digital Photography program are well-prepared for various roles, including:
- Portrait Photographer: Capturing individual or group portraits in studios or on location.
- Commercial Photographer: Creating images for advertising, product placement, or corporate use.
- Photojournalist: Documenting events and stories for news outlets.
- Event Photographer: Covering weddings, concerts, and other live events.
- Fine Art Photographer: Producing artistic images for galleries and exhibitions.
- Social Media Content Creator: Developing visual content tailored for digital platforms.
- Photography Studio Assistant: Supporting professional photographers in various tasks.
With the rise of digital media and the constant demand for visual content, skilled photographers have ample opportunities to build successful careers in diverse industries.
Master Your Camera
Learn to confidently operate professional-grade digital cameras in full manual mode. Take complete control over your settings—shutter speed, aperture, ISO—to achieve the perfect exposure in any environment.
See and Shape Light
Lighting is at the heart of great photography. You’ll develop the ability to “see light” and learn how to shape, manipulate, and use it effectively for portraits, landscapes, event photography, and more.
Edit Like a Pro
Become proficient in industry-standard editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. You’ll learn everything from basic corrections to advanced techniques like layering and image compositing.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
Creative & Technical Skill Development
- Use digital imaging software to create original visual art
- Apply scaling, shading, and lighting effects to alter and enhance images
- Produce polished final photographs that demonstrate creative and technical expertise
- Practice strong compositional and design principles in your work
- Understand digital concepts like resolution, color modes, and image optimization
Whether you’re capturing moments or crafting digital works of art, Barton’s program equips you with the tools and skills to bring your vision to life.
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
The Digital Photography curriculum is open to students interested in art and culture and provides a course of study leading to an Associate in Arts Degree. This curriculum is a general guide if plan to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of Art or Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree at a college or university. Your advisor will help you plan courses that will meet the specific requirements of your transfer school.
Associate in Arts Degree
Digital Photography
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
You are only a few quick steps away from becoming a Barton Cougar! The Admissions process is quick, easy and free - we're here to help you through every step of the way. Start your future today!
Student Life
Barton is dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging student experience! From clubs to student activities, we offer countless opportunities to make the most of your time as a Cougar.