Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art - Photography

A student in a wetroom processes film.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography at UNC Greensboro offers students a wide array of classes in photographic processes to master the craft. UNCG’s program encourages and supports each student as they develop their artistic vision through technical instruction with an emphasis on critical thinking.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography Program Distinctions

The BFA in Photography at UNCG is a robust analog and digital program with hands on training in all areas of photography including studio lighting, darkroom, and digital photography. The program allows students to explore both historical and new processes. Faculty member Leah Sobsey specializes in alternative photographic processes with a specialty in plant-based printing processes and interdisciplinary research.

state of the art photography equipment at uncg

The BA in Photography program provides access industry level studios and equipment including:

  • Digital photography lab
  • Black-and-white wet lab
  • 21 iMacs
  • 9 Epson printers and scanners
  • 13 enlargers
  • alternative process space
  • studio lighting
  • evening/weekend lab hours
  • equipment checkout
Art displayed In the "Possibilities" show

The photography Student Experience

Students pursuing a degree in Photography in the School of Art have impactful learning experiences beyond the studio, though visiting artist talks, professional critiques, and study abroad opportunities.

  • Study abroad opportunities are offered biannually including studies in Iceland, France, and Ireland.
  • Students enrolled in ART 487 participate in the national For Freedoms Project to create large-scale public art projects, in New York City, Los Angeles, and across North Carolina.
  • Public talks and one on one feedback are provided by notable artists such as Emmet Gowin, Nina Berman, Abelardo Morell, Rania Matar, Keith Carter, and McNair Evans.
  • Renowned photographic advisors offer individual critiques through Click Academy, a partnership with the national Click! Photography Festival.
  • Students participate in a wide range of internships that can include magazines, newspapers, commercial studios, gallery and museums, and lab technicians.
  • Senior students enrolled in the Capstone Photography course or working on Independent Study exhibit their work at the Greensboro Project Space. 

After Graduating with your BFA in Photography

Recent photography area majors and minors have found great success in a number of careers including:

  • freelance photographers
  • photo editors
  • stylists
  • newspaper and magazine photographers
  • photojournalists
  • art critics and writers
  • Gallery and museum positions

Students have gone on to earn their MFA as well as enter photo-related masters programs. Most recently, former UNCG photography minor Kennedi Carter, a freelance photographer, photographed Beyoncé for the cover of British Vogue magazine, making her the youngest person to land the cover of Vogue Magazine.

BFA in Photography Frequently Asked Questions

A BFA in Photography can prepare students for creative careers in photography, photo editing, photojournalism, commercial photography, gallery and museum work, art criticism, and freelance creative practice. Students may also use the degree to build a portfolio for graduate study in photography, fine arts, visual arts, or related creative fields.

Yes. UNCG’s BFA in Photography concentration gives students experience with both analog and digital photography. Students can study black-and-white film photography, darkroom printing, digital photography, image editing, studio lighting, alternative photographic processes, and large-format approaches.

Yes. Photography students at UNCG have opportunities to present their work through critiques, capstone projects, student exhibitions, and gallery-based experiences. Senior BFA students develop a body of work and may exhibit as part of their capstone or senior exhibition experience.

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Program Details

Degree Type: Bachelor's

College/School: College of Visual and Performing Arts

Program Type: Majors & Concentrations

Class Type: In Person

Catalog Name: Art, B.F.A. Photography Concentration

Contact Us

School of Art
336-334-5248
Jennifer Hutchens, Administrative Support Associate
art@uncg.edu