A candle next to a glass of ice might be something so normal we don't even notice it, but to a photographer, it's an opportunity for self-expression.

Our "creative eye" kicks in when we recognize the photographic potential.

Our "technical skills" involve composing the scene, setting the f-stop or shutter speed and releasing the shutter.

Our creative skills come into play as we view our work, imagine the possibilities and create the final image.

Photographers specialize in studio, commercial, news, or fine art photography and in each of these areas you'll find that digital photography, photo manipulation and presentation skills become basic ingredients for professional success.

Photographers express themselves in a wide variety of ways and their pictures range from family snapshots to works of art. It's a highly subjective field.

So if it's so wide-open, you should ask:

FYI, the images on these pages were all taken by students (and a few by your instructor)... we'd tell you which were which but your instructor would be crushed.