Photography, M.A.

Education content

The studies emphasize photography as a means of independent and multidisciplinary artistic expression, highlighting the development of conceptual thinking and research skills.

The staff and students in the Master’s Programme in Photography form a creative academic community. International artistic activities and the various publication processes and platforms are core areas of the programme. The most visible results of the activities are domestic and international exhibitions, photography publications, Helsinki Photomedia Conference and Helsinki School activities.

The studies include vocational, artistic and theoretical courses. The teaching methods are workshops, study projects, lectures, seminars and personal guidance. Studies in international student exchange programmes are recommended as part of the programme. Based on his/her orientation, the student can supplement intermediate studies with courses in the humanities, business or technology offered by other Aalto University schools and other universities. The student also has the opportunity to learn about current international activities in photography research at the Helsinki Photomedia Conference that is held in even years.

The studies require personal motivation and interest in the working methods of photographic expression as well as the ability to solve problems and complete tasks individually. The studies are full-time and mainly completed independently. The studies enable the development of advanced professional competence, expressive skills and theoretical thinking. A strong artistic vision and the ability to think conceptually are the key objectives of the studies.

Courses include:

• Personal Study Plan
• Photography Workshops
• Projects
• From Theme Analysis
• Presentation Skills
• Introduction to Helsinki School
• History of Photography
• Theory of Photography