TABLE OF CONTENTS
An Introduction………………………………………………………………………………1
Mission & Philosophy……………………………………………………………………….3
Vocational Objectives………………………………………………………………………..3
Enrollment……………………………………………………………………………………4
Requirements for Enrollment
Student to Teacher Ratio
Required Equipment
Credits for Prior Training
Non-Discrimination Policy
Schedule, Courses, & Graduation Requirements……………………………………...….5
Instructional Program & Graduation Requirements
School Calendar
Required Courses
Required Course Descriptions
Tuition & Fees………………………………………………………………………………..9
Tuition & Fees
Payment Schedule
Policies……………………………………………………………………………………......10
Attendance Policy
Conduct Policy
Grading Policy
Inclement Weather Policy
Leave of Absence Policy
Non-Discrimination Policy
Re-enrollment Policy
Refund Policy
Safe Environment Policy
Additional Information………………………………………………………………….…..13
Administration & Staff
Board of Directors
Facility & Equipment
Placement
Program Performance
Statement of Ownership
Student Grievance Procedure
Student Rights, Privileges & Responsibilities
An Introduction
From Humble Beginnings to a Globally Recognized Organization
The Washington School of Photography (WSP) has been developing photographers since 1976,
beginning in the apex of modern film photography and prospering into what has become the digital
revolution.
WSP was founded with the goal of educating professional and amateur photographers throughout
the Washington and Baltimore areas. It began in a modest two-room facility, and now offers
students three shooting studios, six classrooms, a large darkroom, gallery, and student lounge/library
area.
In the 1980s, the Maryland Higher Education Commission approved the WSP Professional
Photography Program, a year-long program of study, leading to a certificate in professional
photography. This state-approved certificate program gives students the opportunity to achieve a
career in photography, through day, night and weekend classes.
Students begin by studying the fundamentals of camera operation and image composition. They
spend the year with hands-on experiences and coursework including digital workflow, studio
lighting, portraiture, Photoshop and business practices. Optional additional workshops allow
students to expand their experiences beyond the core curriculum. These can include darkroom
classes, advanced studio courses, Adobe Lightroom, wedding and engagement photography, nature
and macro photography, and many more. The program culminates with the creation of a portfolio,
which students utilize during interviews and client meetings.
Teaching by mentoring. . . demonstrating by example.
Washington School of Photography instructors teach classes and workshops in their specialty fields
including portrait, commercial and wedding photographers, graphic designers, Photoshop
practitioners and photojournalists. The instructors are some of the best in their field, making them
extremely qualified to teach courses applying skill sets related to their specialties.
Sought out by the best. . . to become even better.
Throughout its history, the Washington School of Photography has enjoyed a diverse student
population, hosting numerous nationalities, races, religions, and ages. This diversity offers an
important variety of viewpoints, however all members of the school share common ideals: mutual
support of others, honest critique and support of others’ vision, and the value of networking and
continuing education. Students form business partnerships, hire colleagues for freelance jobs, and
continue friendships beyond the classroom.
Giving back to the community is one of the key attributes of Washington School of Photography.
The school participates in multiple community events, offering gallery space for the area non-profits
as well as hosting the Montgomery County High School Photography Exhibit. Both the students
and staff of WSP understand the importance to supporting the arts in the local area, raising money
for others in need, and donating time and supplies to groups that facilitate a positive working
community.
Page: An Introduction
Giving back to the community. . . a priority for staff and students.
1
Gallery Shows. . . with a purpose.
Washington School of Photography sponsors national and regional gallery shows each year, giving
hundreds of photographers the chance to show and sell their work. Student shows are held every
year as well, with tuition awards and sales opportunities.
WSP has also hosted numerous shows to highlight social issues, including photographs taken by
Serbian children in Kosovo, and images taken in Darfur by NBC’s Ann Curry. Social justice is an
important issue that WSP supports regularly through gallery exhibits and shows.
Scholarships and Financial Aid. . . so everyone has a chance to see their dream come
true.
The Washington School of Photography provides several levels of scholarships per calendar year.
Full tuition fees for the Professional Photography Program are $7800, and students may qualify for a
20%, 40%, or 60% scholarship, depending on their income. These awards are need based, and are
evaluated twice a year by the Scholarship Committee, which is made up of the CEO, Program
Manager, and two board members, in the order in which they were received within the deadline
timeframe.
WSP also offers a variety of Veterans scholarships.
Page: An Introduction
With an in-house tuition payment program and work with grant and foundation funders, every
effort is made to ensure each student’s desire to achieve in photography is possible.
2
Mission & Philosophy
Washington School of Photography’s Professional Photography Program provides a comprehensive
education to prepare students to enter any field of professional photography. The Program
philosophy maintains that mastery of the two elements of photography – creative vision and
technical skill – are necessary for success in the field. When this mastery is combined with
knowledge of photographic business practices, the graduating student is armed with the tools for
success as an artist and professional photographer.
In the Professional Program, students learn the technical elements of photography, including camera
operation and exposure control, portable flash, studio lighting, and the processing of digital images.
Students explore and demonstrate their unique understanding of the aesthetics of the photographic
image, and apply this knowledge to the photographic specialties of their choice.
Students learn the elements of running an independent photography business, including business
formation, copyright protection, contracts and releases, pricing, marketing, and website
development. The Program culminates in the production of a professional-grade portfolio.
Vocational Objectives
The Washington School of Photography seeks to provide Professional Photography Program
students the skills, education, and experience needed to become entry-level professional
photographers. Students, upon graduation, may wish to work for themselves or to apply as an
assistant or as a staff member of a firm. Most WSP graduates start their own business in portrait,
commercial, event, or wedding photography. Others have gone on to fine art and gallery work, as a
staff member of a company requiring photographers, or as government employees.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Outlook Occupational Handbook, “photographers use
their technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images that
visually tell a story or record an event. Working conditions for photographers vary considerably
depending on their specialty. Some travel for photo shoots; others work in their own studios. Still
others work in laboratories and use microscopes to photograph subjects. Postsecondary education is
not required for portrait photographers. Photojournalists and industrial and scientific photographers
often need a bachelor’s degree. Employers usually seek applicants with a “good eye” and creativity,
as well as a good technical understanding of photography.”
Page: Mission & Philosophy
According to the same agency, the median annual wage of photographers was $29,130 in May 2010,
meaning half of photographers earned above this amount and half earned below this amount, and
employment of photographers is projected to grow by 13 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast
as the average for all occupations.
3
Enrollment
Requirements for Enrollment
A prospective student may enroll for the Professional Photography Program Monday through
Friday, 11am to 3pm, at The Washington School of Photography, located at 12276 Wilkins Ave,
Rockville, Maryland. Interviews are by appointment only.
Enrollment in the Professional Photography Program requires that the student be at least 18 years of
age, have a High School Diploma or equivalent, and be interviewed by the Program Manager or
attend a Program Preview. There is a $50 registration fee to enroll in the program.
Students will be considered as completely enrolled and allowed to attend program courses when all
of the following have been received:
1. The student’s High School Diploma or its equivalent,
2. A copy of student’s proof of age,
3. Have been interviewed by the Program Director or attended a Program Preview
4. A signed Enrollment Agreement with $50 registration fee and
5. The $1,200 first tuition payment is paid in full.
Student-to-Teacher Ratio
The maximum ratio of students to teacher is 16 students per teacher.
Required Equipment & Supplies
The following equipment (which can be purchased on the open market)is required:
 Digital SLR Camera operable in full manual mode with at least one lens
 A minimum 4 megabyte memory card
 Laptop computer (Windows-based or Mac) with the current version of Adobe
Photoshop (purchased or leased) installed and accessible, before the start of the first
Photoshop I class. If there is any question that the student owns the proper laptop,
the student is required to present the laptop to WSP staff for approval.
 Portable/External Flash
 Textbook: Photography, ed. 11, by Upton and London
The cost of books and materials, which is to be assumed by the student, including a laptop
computer with the minimum specifications, should not exceed $750 for the entire program.
Credit for Prior Training
Non-discrimination Policy
Washington School of Photography does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, creed,
sexual orientation, religion, gender or national origin in administration of its educational or
Enrollments policies, scholarship or other WSP-administered programs.
Page: Enrollment
Most students will be expected to begin their studies with Fundamentals of Photography and
progress sequentially. Credit for previous courses or work can be approved by the School’s designee
after an interview and portfolio review. However, under no circumstances can credit be given for
any courses other than Fundamentals of Photography (101) and Photoshop I (302).
4
Schedule, Courses, & Graduation Requirements
Instructional Program & Graduation Requirements
In order to qualify for the Certificate in Professional Photography, students must satisfactorily
complete 231 hours of instruction with a cumulative grade of 70% or better. In all courses, a grade
of 65% is passing. A student is placed on a probationary period if the cumulative grade average is
below 70%. Probation will end when the student’s average rises above 70%. No more than two
probationary periods for failure to maintain a 70% are allowed. Any student whose grade average
falls below 70% for the third time will be terminated.
Students must maintain an attendance rate of 80% of the total program in order to graduate. The
program consists of 231 hours in the 14 required courses.
Successful completion of the required classes is needed to earn a Certificate from the Professional
Photography Program. Students are expected to complete a significant amount of work, both in
school and outside class time.
All academic and financial obligations must be met before a Certificate will be issued.
School Calendar
Professional Program courses are in session year-round.
January:
or
January
Tuesdays & Thursdays
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
Tuesday & Thursdays
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
March:
Saturdays
10:00 am - 1:00 pm & 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm (6 hrs/day &week)
April:
or
April:
Mondays & Wednesdays
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
Mondays & Wednesdays
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
7:00 pm -10:00 pm
(3 hrs/day, 2 days/wk, 6 hrs/week)
September: Tuesdays & Thursdays
or
September: Tuesdays & Thursdays
or
September: Saturdays
10:00 am-1:00 pm & 2:00 pm- 5:00 pm (6 hrs/day & week)
When one set of courses concludes, there is a one or two-week break before the next set begins.
These breaks may be adjusted for unforeseen circumstances, such as weather, or class cancellations.
Additionally, there is a winter and summer break.
Page: Schedule, Courses, & Graduation Requirements
The schedule of classes is based on the month that a student begins the program. Up to seven
sessions of the Professional Photography Program are offered each year.
5
The Washington School of Photography observes the following holidays, during which no classes
are held:
 New Year’s Day
 Martin Luther King’s birthday
 Memorial Day
 Independence Day
 Labor Day
 Columbus Day
 Thanksgiving Day & the day before & after
 Christmas Eve
 Christmas Day
In addition to the dates above, there will be no classes on the following evenings:
 February 14
 October 31
The Professional Program will also have 2 two week vacations:
 The last week of June through the first week of July
 The last week of December through the first week of January
Course Number and Title
Lecture
Course 101: Fundamentals of Photography
Course 102: Composition and Creative Elements
Total
Hours
18
18
18
9
Studio/
Activity
---9
Course 201: Digital Workflow
Course 202: Studio Lighting
18
18
18
6
--12
Course 301: Photoshop I
Course 302: Business of Photography I
18
12
---12
18
---
Course 351: Lighting with Portable Flash
Course 352: Product Photography
12
12
3
3
9
9
Course 401: Portraiture
Course 402: Color Photography
18
18
---12
18
6
Course 501: Advanced Lighting
Course 502: Photoshop II
18
18
-------
18
18
Course 601: Business of Photography II
Course 602: Portfolio Production
Total Hours Required to Complete the Program
12
21
231
12
6
---15
Page: Schedule, Courses, & Graduation Requirements
Required Classes
6
101
Fundamentals of Photography
Prerequisite: none
This course covers cameras and basic camera handling, memory cards, lenses, aperture and
shutter control, exposure mechanics, and depth of field.
102
Composition and Creative Elements
Prerequisite: none
Students will learn how to put into artistic use the technical information they are learning in
Introduction to Photography. Creative and compositional elements such as depth of field,
traditional “rules of composition” such as the rule of thirds, and how and when to break
these traditional rules will be discussed.
201
Digital Workflow
Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Photography
This course will teach the student the basics of digital technology for photographers: digital
camera purchase and use, storage issues, printing, and wireless options.
202
Studio Lighting
Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Photography
An in-depth study of studio lighting. Both studio electronic flash systems and “hot lights”
will be examined. The student will learn to work with single, as well as multiple light
sources.
301
Photoshop I
Prerequisite: Digital Workflow
Students will learn file formats, resolution, compression, color correction, sharpening, and
how to combine images into one in this overview and introduction to the world of digital
editing and darkroom.
302
Business of Photography I
Prerequisite: none
This class focuses on the skills needed to start a photography career and thinking through
the critical questions of business formation unique to photography: name of the business,
state requirements and registration, social media, and having contracts and model releases in
place.
351
Lighting with Portable Flash
Prerequisite: Studio Lighting
Students will learn to incorporate flash effectively into their work, with topics including
proper exposure with built-in or individual flash units, mixing flash with available light, the
relationship between aperture, shutter speed, ISO and flash. Students must bring a
portable/electronic flash to class. Students will experience a mix of lecture and in-class
exercises.
Page: Required Course Descriptions
Required Course Descriptions
7
Product Photography
Prerequisite: Studio Lighting
Students will learn to select backdrops, sets, lighting and composition appropriate to a
variety of products. One week will emphasize macro and close-up work, one week will
provide exercises on reflective and other difficult materials, two weeks will provide exercises
with people and products.
401
Portraiture
Prerequisite: Studio Lighting
This hand-on class walks students through classic portrait lighting styles such as Rembrandt
and Butterfly, and then shows lighting ratios and their application, and how to pose and
direct your subject. Each week, models of different looks, backgrounds, and experience
levels will work with students as they explore classic lighting and adding their own unique
style.
402
Color Photography
Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Photography
This course explores the fundamentals of color photography, including color as seen and
photographed, color characteristics, light balancing for color photography, working with
professional color laboratories, and the psychology and aesthetics of color photography.
501
Advanced Lighting
Prerequisite: Studio Lighting
Advanced techniques for studio lighting will be demonstrated and then used by students.
Studio strobe lights, reflectors, gels, and backgrounds will all be part of the creative and
educational process. Students will finish this class with an advanced understanding of both
lighting equipment and how to apply it in problem solving situations.
502
Photoshop II
Prerequisite: Photoshop I
This class will concentrate on advanced techniques for digital manipulation such as portrait
retouching and fine art applications. Learn levels, curves, and how to make any image
appear the way you envision it.
601
Business of Photography II
Prerequisite: Business of Photography I
This class is dedicated to the conduct of a photographic business – finding a job, starting a
business, dealing with clients on the creative, financial and ethical fronts are a few of the
areas covered. We will stress learning trade terminology, business issues for newly
established photographers, licensing work, and website development.
602
Portfolio Production
Prerequisite: Advanced Lighting
The student will be required to define and produce a substantive portfolio of photographs
applicable to the specific field(s) in professional photography, which he or she wishes to
pursue upon graduation. The student will meet on a regular basis with the instructor for
critique of the student’s work and the refinement of techniques where necessary.
Page: Required Course Descriptions
352
8
Tuition & Fees
Tuition & Fees
The total tuition cost of the program is $7,800 which includes the 14 required classes and all studio,
lab and model fees. Students should anticipate spending approximately $750 for supplies,
processing, and miscellaneous purchases.
This does not include the cost of photography equipment, approximately $500, which is the
student’s personal property. Also, there is a $50 registration fee required for enrollment.
Tuition includes instruction, in-class model fees and use of the School’s facilities and equipment.
Required Course
101 Fundamentals of Photography
102 Composition & Creative Elements
201 Digital Workflow
202 Studio Lighting
301 Photoshop I
302 Business of Photography I
351 Lighting with Portable Flash
352 Product Photography
401 Portraiture
402 Color Photography
501 Advanced Lighting
502 Photoshop II
601 Business of Photography II
602 Portfolio Production
Total Tuition for Required Classes
Hours
Per
Week
Number
of Weeks
Total
Hours
Total
Tuition
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
6
6
6
6
6
4
4
4
6
6
6
6
4
7
18
18
18
18
18
12
12
12
18
18
18
18
12
21
231
$7800
Payment Schedule
The $50 registration fee must be paid at the time of submitting an Enrollment Agreement and prior
to the start of classes. This is required to hold the student’s place in the Program.
An initial payment of $1200 is due two weeks before the first day of class. Subsequently, students
will pay $600 per month, by the 10th of the month..
Page: Tuition & Fees
.
9
Policies
Attendance Policy
Students are expected to arrive at the school with enough time to be seated in class at or before class
start time. Instructors take attendance at the start of each class. Students who are more than ten
minutes late, or depart early, will have their arrival or departure time noted on the attendance sheet.
WSP requires that students maintain an 80% attendance record for the overall program in order to
graduate, and no more than one three hour class may be missed in order to pass a course.
If a student is regularly early or late, and accumulates three or more hours of class having been
absent across the course, the same policy applies as if the student had missed a complete class
meeting. For example, if a student were to arrive 30 minutes late and leave 30 minutes early to a
class three times, they would have reached three hours absent for that class and could not miss any
more of that class in order to pass. If a student surpasses three hours of absence in a course, the
student will receive a failing grade for that course and the student must re-take the course, and pass
it within the parameters of the students’ enrollment agreement.
Conduct Policy
Students are required to act in a manner that will reflect credit on themselves and the school. This
will include appropriate dress (i.e., shoes and shirts must be worn), absolutely no illegal drugs,
smoking only in the designated area, no fighting or vandalism, and no other forms of disruptive
behavior. Failure to adhere to the School’s regulations and policies can result in termination from
the Professional Photography Program.
Grading Policy
WSP will keep a transcript, which contains grade and attendance records. A report card will be
given to the student within 30 days of the completion of each course. Grades are evaluated at the
end of each course to ascertain that a student received a grade of 65% or better. In all courses, a
grade of 65% will be considered as passing. However, a student must have an overall GPA of at
least 70% in order to graduate (see section titled “Instructional Program & Graduation
Requirements”).
With the exception of Portfolio Production, the student’s grade will be based upon the following:
Quality of work performed
Final Exam
Effort, attitude and ability to demonstrate mastery of techniques
60%
20%
20%
A student will receive an Incomplete grade in a course if he/she has failed to turn in up to 50% of
class assignments. The requirements to complete that course must be met within two weeks after the
last date of that course. The student’s grade will become an F if all requirements are not met within
this timeframe.
If a student fails to turn in more than 50% of class assignments, his/her grade will be a failing grade.
Page: Policies
In Portfolio Production, 70% of the grade will be based on the student’s work and 30% on effort,
attitude, and the ability to demonstrate mastery of techniques.
1
0
Failed courses must be re-taken and passed within the parameters of the students’ enrollment
agreement. Failed courses can only be re-taken once, with the option to retake up to 3 different
courses.
Grading Scale
A+
A
A-
100-98
97-92
91-90
B+
B
B-
89-88
87-82
81-80
C+
C
C-
79-78
77-72
71-70
D
F
69-65
64 & below
Inclement Weather Policy
Safety of WSP students, faculty and staff is paramount, especially during inclement weather. WSP
staff will monitor weather and news reports to determine if conditions warrant closing school
facilities. Should closing become necessary, WSP staff will utilize the following venues of notifying
students:




Closing alerts on the WSP Internet home page: www.washingtonschoolofphotography.com
Twitter notification: @WSPtoday
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Washington-School-of-Photography/
WSP’s outgoing voice mail message: 301-654-1998
In the event of inclement weather closings, classes will be extended or adequate time will be
provided for the completion of missed work at no additional cost to the student.
Leave of Absence Policy
WSP allows for a total of 180 days leave from the school in any 12-month period. This must be
requested in writing by a student, documented in the student’s file, and granted by the school.
Re-Enrollment Policy
Students on a leave of absence may re-enroll by contacting the Program Manager for course
scheduling information. Students who have voluntarily withdrawn from the Professional
Photography Program may re-enroll by contacting the Program Manager and submitting a new
Enrollment Agreement. Any student who has been terminated due to failing grades or misconduct
may apply for re-enrollment to the Program by requesting a personal interview with the Program
Manager, after a three-month suspension.
Safe Environment
All students and other members of the community should be treated with courtesy and respect at all
times. Students are expected to refrain from fighting, “horseplay”, or other conduct that may be
dangerous to others. Firearms, weapons, and other dangerous or hazardous devices or substances
are prohibited on the premises without proper authorization.
Conduct that threatens, intimidates, or coerces another student, a customer, an instructor or a
member of the administrative staff or public at any time, including off-duty periods, will not be
tolerated. This prohibition includes all acts of harassment, including harassment that is based on an
Page: Policies
Because WSP is committed to maintaining a safe environment, the following policy has been
adopted to deal with intimidation, harassment, or other threats of, or actual violence that may occur
during business hours or on its premises. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary
action, up to and including termination, arrest, and prosecution.
11
individual’s sex, race, sexual orientation, age, or any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local
law. All threats of or actual violence, both direct and indirect, should be reported as soon as
possible to your instructor or a member of the administrative staff. This includes threats by students
as well as threats by employees, instructors, customers, vendors, solicitors, or other members of the
public. When reporting a threat of violence, you should be as specific and detailed as possible. Any
person engaging in threats of or actual violence may be removed from company premises as quickly
as safety permits. Individuals who have been removed from school premises shall remain off the
premises pending the outcome of company and/or criminal investigations.
All suspicious individuals or activities should also be reported as soon as possible to an instructor or
member of the administrative staff. No student will be subjected to retaliation for reporting any
threat or perceived threat.
WSP will promptly and thoroughly investigate all reports of threats of or actual violence and of
suspicious individuals or activities. The identity of the individual making a report will be protected
as much as is practicable. In order to maintain the safety of members of the organization and the
integrity of its investigation, the school may suspend students pending investigation. The school may
also, at its option, discipline the offending student, or terminate them from the Professional
Photography Program, and/or initiate criminal prosecution of the person or persons involved. No
existing school policy, practice, or procedure should be interpreted to prohibit decisions designed to
prevent a threat from being carried out, a violent act from occurring, or a life-threatening situation
from developing.
Voluntary Withdrawals & Refunds
If the school closes or discontinues a course or program, the school shall refund to each currently
enrolled student monies paid by the student for tuition and fees and monies for which the student is
liable for tuition and fees.
All tuition and fees paid by a student or on behalf of the student shall be refunded if the student
chooses not to enroll in or withdraws from WSP within seven (7) calendar days after having signed
this Enrollment Agreement Form. If the student chooses not to enroll after the seven-day
cancellation period, but before the first day of instruction, WSP will retain the $50 enrollment fee.
Should a student withdraw after instruction begins, but before completing the required courses,
WSP will provide a statement of account showing all payments to date. The date of withdrawal or
termination is the last date of attendance by the student. A refund due a student shall be based on
the date of withdrawal or termination. The refund amount for students withdrawing shall be based
on a pro rata percentage determined by dividing the number of clock hours that the student
completed by the total clock hours in the program. The $50 enrollment fee will be retained by WSP.
For example, if a student completes only the first two courses:
36 (clock hours) / 231 (total clock hours) = 16%
16% X $7,800 = $1,248
$1,248 would be owed to WSP.
In the case of a leave of absence, if a student fails to return to the program by the end of the leave of
absence, a refund due a student shall be based on the first day of the leave of absence and paid
within 60 days of the scheduled last day of the leave of absence.
Page: Policies
Refunds will be made within 60 days of the student’s last day in class.
1
2
Additional Information
Administration & Staff
Title
Executive Director & Instructor
Registrar & Program Manager
Operations Manager
Business Manager
Events & Fundraising Manager
Technical Director
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Instructor
Name
Missy Loewe
Maryjo Niland
Lynn Crane-Wexler
Talley Lach
Kristen Cleveland
Donald Becker
Andarge Asfaw
Salam Dahbour
Sam D’Amico
Leo Heppner
Mimi Ho
Brad Howell
Cortney Jackson
Paul Pavot
John Reef
Kelly Sajonia
Dave Timmerman
Alexander Vasiljev
John Witschey
Joe Yablonsky
Subject Matter
Business
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Color
Various Studio classes
Digital Workflow
Portable Flash
Various Studio classes
Various Studio classes
Photoshop
Photoshop
Business
Fundamentals
Social Media, Marketing
Digital Workflow
Product
Photoshop
Composition, Portfolio
Board of Directors
Catriona Fraser
Leo P. Heppner
Melisa Loewe
Harvey Metro
David Mould
Dave Mullen
Zach Oxman
Sur Tabach
Washington School of Photography is located in Rockville, MD and has over 7,000 square feet of
learning space. The school has six classrooms (2800 sq ft), three studios (2700 sq ft), a darkroom
(375 sq ft), gallery (800 sq ft), and library (500 sq ft).. The studios are equipped with a large variety
of studio strobe lights, soft boxes, reflectors, light modifiers, backdrops, model stools & tables.
There are also two model rooms available for use. WSP receives more than a dozen photographyrelated periodicals, and our library is stocked with more than 50 books. Students may check out
books and magazines for home study. In addition, students each have individual mailboxes and a
comfortable student lounge for breaks. There are also areas designated for administration, reception
and restrooms. Our facilities are handicap accessible.
Page: Additional Information
Facility and Equipment
1
3
The instructional equipment at Washington School of Photography is broken down into two
categories. First, classroom equipment includes, whiteboards and markers, audiovisual projectors or
monitors, speakers, and basic supplies for taking notes (ie. pens and notebooks). Second, our studio
instruction takes place in fully equipped studios, offering students access to strobe lights, light
stands, backdrops and stands, sync cords, remote triggers, soft boxes, power packs, and other
miscellaneous studio gear.
Placement
Throughout the program, the staff is always ready to assist and guide the student on his or her way
to becoming successful in the photographic industry. And, while we will do everything we can to
help place our graduating students, NO GUARANTEE OF EMPLOYMENT OR PLACEMENT
CAN BE GIVEN.
It is very difficult to make accurate predictions for average entry level starting salaries in Professional
Photography, as many different factors, such as individual levels of ability and dedication, will
influence the amount of money one may expect to earn upon graduation from the program.
Program Performance
A student may obtain information regarding the performance outcome of this program from the
Maryland Higher Education Commission. This information includes the Program’s enrollment,
completion rate and placement rate of WSP students. Information can be obtained at 6 N. Liberty
Street, 10th floor, Baltimore, MD 21201; 410-767-3300 or by visiting the MHEC website at
http://www.mhec.state.md.us
Statement of Ownership
The Washington School of Photography is wholly owned by Washington ArtWorks, Inc., a
nonprofit 501(c) 3 Maryland Corporation.
Any circumstance which results in a student grievance should be brought to the attention of the
Executive Director, who is responsible for resolving grievances. If the School’s Executive Director
cannot or does not satisfy the student’s grievance, the student may appeal, in writing, to
Secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission,
6N.Liberty Street, 10th Floor
Baltimore Maryland 21201
410-767-3301
www.mhec.state.md.us
The Secretary will report the findings of the investigation to the student and the School’s owner or
chief operator.
Students may also contact the:
Maryland office of the Attorney General
Consumer Affairs
200 St. Paul Place
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
888-743-0023
410-528-8662
Page: Additional Information
Student Grievance Procedure
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Students Rights, Privileges, and Responsibilities
WSP is located in the Twinbrook section of Rockville, Maryland. Directly behind the building is a
large parking lot, which students are welcome to use, space permitting. Should students find the lot
full, paid meters are available on the street.
WSP maintains permanent grade records for all students which are updated at the end of each
course with attendance and grade information. Students will receive a grade report with attendance
and grade information within 30 days of the completion of each course.
All students who are current on their tuition payments may request a current transcript at any time.
WSP does not charge students for transcripts sent, up to five a year, after graduation, as long as their
program fee was paid in full. Each transcript after five per year requires a $5 fee.
Students, after completing the Introduction to Studio Lighting, are welcome to use a studio for
practice, assignments, or client work at no charge, up to 16 hours per month. Additional time over
16 hours per month requires a $25/hour fee. Students are expected to leave all studios in the same
condition they found them, returning all equipment to their designated space, and to arrive and
depart in a timely manner. Student may reserve studio time by coming into the office, the reception
area, or calling or emailing the school. Time reserved includes all set up and tear down, and early
and late overtime is not allowed without prior approval. Students are responsible for their
guests/clients behavior, making sure to not disrupt the activity of others, or classes in session. No
illegal or lewd behavior is allowed in studios, and all other student conduct policies apply to studio
time, i.e. no drinking, drugs, etc.
Students may use the darkroom at no charge during the time of their enrollment, if they have taken a
darkroom class (at WSP or elsewhere), there is no reservation required, and all paper developing
chemicals are provided, as well as enlargers, easels, grain focusers, and tanks and reels. Students
need to bring their own negatives and paper.
Students may reserve the first floor conference room for client meetings or group projects. There is
no charge for this use, and the room includes a conference table, eight high-backed leather chairs,
projection screen and projector, and sideboard. Students can reserve the room in the same manner
as studio reservations.
Certified true and correct as to content and policy:
Missy Loewe
Missy Loewe, President/CEO
June 2014
Page: Additional Information
Students may make use of the student lounge, which includes vending machines, WSP’s library of
books and magazines, student jobs board, and seating, any time the building is open. Students are
asked to recycle cans and bottles in provided containers, and leave the area neat and clean.
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