Photography
Capture Your Vision—Frame by Frame
Explore the art and science of photography, from mastering camera techniques to developing a keen eye for composition and lighting to developing your own film. Experiment with digital and analog formats, delve into photo editing and alternative processes, and participate in exhibitions that showcase their evolving skills. In our photography program, you will learn to craft compelling narratives through visual storytelling.
Meet Your Teacher
Danielle Picard-Sheehan
Danielle Picard-Sheehan is an esteemed professional in the field of visual arts and design, currently serving as the Director of Visual Arts and Design. She earned her BFA in Photography from the Massachusetts College of Art in 1992, followed by an MFA in Photography from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University in 1995.
With a wealth of teaching experience, Danielle has taught at Rutgers University, Temple University, University of the Arts, The Peddie School, and Princeton Day School, before assuming her role at George School in 1999.
Danielle's artistic endeavors have been showcased in numerous local, national, and international exhibitions, earning her recognition such as the Leeway Grant in 1996. Her most recent accolade includes the Creativity Award at the Phillips' Mill Photography Exhibition in New Hope, PA in 2023.
Danielle specializes in Black and White photography, Adobe Photoshop, Alternative Processes, Installation, and Bookbinding, showcasing her diverse expertise and passion for the arts.
Photography
Madison DePalantino '26
Amanda Roman '23
Antonio Lance '24
Celine Ge '26
Hana Oh '24
Jackson Yang '25
Julian Lentchner '23
Mary Katherine Hackenberg '24
Sarah Zhu '26
Photography Courses
ARV168A: AP Art History / ARV160A: Art History
The class exposes students to visual art history and provides an opportunity to delve into meaningful research. The course is organized into historical units from prehistoric times to the present. Skills taught include visual analysis, contextual analysis, comparison of artwork, artistic traditions, attribution of unknown work, “visual” art historical interpretations and challenges, and argumentation.
ARV170C: Creative Transformation
In this class, students unearth the world of artistic innovation while exploring the principles of "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle." Through the mediums of photography and painting and drawing, and with the laser cutter, assemblage, and encaustic photography, students delve into the art of transforming both used and new materials.
ARV410A: Photography
Basic analog photography concepts, processes, and techniques lead students toward mastery of 35mm camera operation, exposure, and darkroom procedures. In addition to technical skills, students explore the aesthetics of photography through critiques, presentations, and written assignments. Student work is entered in regional and international photography contests and exhibited throughout the year in the George School galleries.
ARV410D: Advanced Photography 1 / ARV410E: Advanced Photography 2 / ARV410F: Advanced Photography 3
Technical skills acquired in Photography (ARV410A) and Digital Imaging (ARV420A) are further refined in this course. Experimental techniques, ranging from historic and antique processes to digital imaging, are introduced and, for those taking Advanced Photography 2 or 3, explored in more depth. Students experiment with studio lighting, digital imaging, non-silver processes, hand-coloring, toning, and mixed-media.
ARV418D: AP Art & Design: Photography
In this course, students prepare for the AP Art & Design exam while participating in the Advanced Photography 2 (ARP410E) or Advanced Photography 3 (ARP410F) class.
ARV420A: Digital Imaging & Design
This course explores the art of digital imaging through Adobe Photoshop. Students create images with 35mm Digital SLR cameras that they may borrow from the school. In the first mod, students learn to edit and manipulate their images in Adobe Photoshop by participating in hands-on demonstrations and completing technical exercises. In the second mod, each student designs and publishes a hardcover book based on their summer project. In the third mod, which is optional, students develop a cohesive portfolio.
ARV428D: AP Art & Design - Digital Imaging
In this course, students prepare for the AP Art & Design exam while participating in the Advanced Digital Imaging & Design 1 (ARP420D) or Advanced Digital Imaging & Design 2 (ARP420E) class.
ARV777Y: IB SL Visual Arts / ARV777Z: IB HL Visual Arts
IB Visual Arts is a two-year course of study during which students work in multiple media while selecting one of the following as their primary visual art: Ceramics, Graphic Design, Painting and Drawing, Photography, or Sculpture. Students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as artists, and while learning to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. In addition to exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with, and critically reflect upon a wide range of contemporary practices and media