Photojournalism

Course Title: Photojournalism
FLDOE Course Number: 8203001

Course Purpose

This foundational course introduces students to visual storytelling through photography. Students learn the essentials of camera operation, composition, lighting, ethics of journalism, caption writing, and publication standards.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Understand principles of journalistic photography.
• Learn DSLR and mirrorless camera operations.
• Produce edited images using Adobe Photoshop.
• Study visual ethics and responsible reporting.
• Create a small beginning portfolio of published-style images.

Program Importance

This course sets the stage for visual literacy and reporting skills required in higher-level media production or yearbook work.

Industry Certification Opportunities

Students in the academy can earn professional Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) credentials. Certifications may include:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• Adobe Audition
• Adobe Dreamweaver

These certifications validate students’ technical skills and can contribute to:

• Florida Bright Futures Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship eligibility
• Enhanced career and college portfolios
• Improved employability in media and design fields

Student Organization Involvement

Students will have the opportunity to join the Florida Scholastic Press Association (FSPA).

Benefits of FSPA participation

• Opportunities to compete in photography, design, writing, and broadcast categories
• Access to conventions, workshops, and professional guest speakers
• Opportunities for awards and statewide recognition
• Networking with student journalists and designers across Florida
• Portfolio enhancement through competitive work

Summary of Program Strengths

• Structured pathway: Every student receives exposure to photography, media, and design.
• Flexible senior options: Students choose Yearbook Production or continue developing media/design skills.
• Career readiness: Adobe industry certifications ensure students are career- and college-ready.
• Real-world application: Students produce authentic work (videos, photos, publications).
• Student leadership: Yearbook Production promotes leadership skills and team management.
• Community and recognition: FSPA involvement enhances student engagement and achievement.

Media Production

Course Title: Media Production
FLDOE Course Number: 8771110

Course Purpose

Building on year 1, this course introduces multimedia storytelling using audio, video, and digital editing tools. Students learn the fundamentals of filming, editing, interviewing, scriptwriting, and producing content for broadcast or digital platforms.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Produce short videos, interviews, and news-style segments.
• Use Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing.
• Learn Adobe Audition for audio editing and sound design.
• Understand storyboarding, production planning, and on-camera presentation.

Program Importance

Media Production strengthens students’ communication skills and prepares them for advanced digital design or leadership roles in yearbook and other publications.

Course Title: Digital Design 1
FLDOE Course Number: 8209510

Course Purpose

This course introduces graphic design principles and the use of professional design software. Students develop visual communication skills applicable to branding, page layout, advertising, and publication design.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Learn graphic design foundations (color theory, typography, layout).
• Use Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics.
• Use Adobe InDesign for publication layout.
• Learn introductory Adobe Dreamweaver for digital content design.
• Build a professional digital portfolio.

Program Importance

Digital Design 1 develops the essential design skills required for Yearbook Production and prepares students for Adobe industry certifications.

Course Title: Arts, A/V Technology and Communication Directed Study
FLDOE Course Number: 8200400

Who Can Join?

Students are eligible if they have completed at least one of the following courses:

• Photojournalism (8203001)
• Media Production (8771110)
• Digital Design 1 (8209510)

Additional acceptable prerequisites:

• Journalism
• Photography
• Creative Writing

Students who have completed Photojournalism, Media Production, and Digital Design 1 gain the most comprehensive preparation and are considered ideal candidates.

Course Purpose

This directed study course functions as the school’s Yearbook Production team. Students apply all previously learned skills to design, write, photograph, edit, and publish the school yearbook.

Key Responsibilities

• Photography and photo editing
• Designing yearbook spreads in Adobe InDesign
• Interviewing and journalistic writing
• Branding, advertising, and theme development
• Managing deadlines and project logistics
• Collaboration within a real production team environment

Repeatable for Credit

Students may take this course multiple years, allowing them to take on leadership positions such as:

• Editor-in-Chief
• Photo Editor
• Graphics Editor
• Copy Editor
• Section Leader
• Business/Marketing Manager