From Film to Digital: Pushing Your Creative Limits

Q: James, what first inspired your passion for photography?

My first experience with photography began at age 8 with a toy camera, and I’ve been framing the world through a lens ever since. I love to find beautiful abstract scenes, close-ups with macro photos, and capture moments of emotion. I first learned how to process film in the dark room during my early days in school, and now photography has become even more fun and accessible with the digital era.

Q: Why did you decide to pursue a BFA in Digital Photography, studying online?

I believe that becoming educated is the best thing you can do for yourself. It’s like giving yourself a gift because you benefit in so many unexpected ways through learning and being challenged to think differently. I wanted to pair my love of the lens with school, so earning a BFA in Photography makes perfect sense.

I love being part of a world where you can share and do so much online because there is freedom and opportunity in that. The option to study online at Sessions College made a Bachelor’s Degree become a reality for me, and for that I am extremely grateful.

Q: Your work shows that unique combination of technical skill, creativity, and observation that photographers need to have. How have your skills developed during the program?

I’ve learned so much in every class I’ve taken, from the very beginning introductions of digital photography, to the imaging tools of Photoshop, Illustrator, and Lightroom, and even diving into video production and many other valuable lessons.

The projects that have shaped my current portfolio have shown me the tip of the iceberg of what can be achieved, and it’s really exciting to keep pushing my limits as I continue.

When I began my studies at Sessions, I only had experience with film cameras, and now I feel completely at ease in the digital side of photography. There is always room for more improvement so I want to keep pushing myself to do a little better with each skill and grow into the best I can be behind the lens.

Q: How do you fit your online studies into your schedule and other life commitments?

I want to make the most of this chance to learn new things, so school is my first priority. I keep a weekly schedule that blocks the first part of my days for homework, with evenings free for personal projects or review. I use digital calendar reminders for each due date, and when the end of the semester approaches, I set aside extra time for exam study and essay writing.

I learned right away that the calendar and consistency are my allies for turning everything in on time. As I stick to this schedule, I always have extra space built in that allows some wiggle room if something in life needs to be taken care of too. Since this study is online, I can make the most of every hour, which is especially helpful since time flies by so fast already.

Q: What’s the favorite Sessions project you’ve completed, so far, and why? Can you describe what went into creating it, and share some images?

It’s so hard to pick one favorite, but the most eye-opening projects for me have come from my commercial photography classes. I have learned about capturing moments during high energy events, product shots, setting up dramatic lighting and framing beautiful portraits, along with many other things.

I try to keep an eye on the visual language of each photo as well, such as composition, color choices, rhythm and flow through the space… There is a lot to think about with each shot. This is what makes photography a fun puzzle to put together, in my opinion.

Q: How do you envision applying your skills, professionally or creatively, after graduation?

I want to keep learning and stay open to what may come. I have a website with my portfolio of photos, videos and artwork, and I am loosely forming a plan to either promote myself as a self-employed photographer for hire, or join a team of professionals where I can focus on a genre and style of work.

Through these years I have gained a strong understanding of what it takes to do a careful and beautiful job, and that work ethic can be applied to anything I take on, so I feel confident that whatever path I ultimately choose, I will be able to do it well and have fun too.

To find out more about James Darden’s work, visit jamesdardenart.com. To find out more about our photography courses and programs, visit our digital photography hub. Check out our Student Gallery, and schedule a meeting with our Admissions team to find out about our tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and more.