"Good photography is a picture that is seen with the inner eye first and then captured through the camera", is the profound observation of renowned photographer, Mr. Raghu Rai. This reflection is also at the heart of the photography programme at SAIMC to introduce the student to the world of professional photography. The curriculum for the year - long programme has been developed to attain two objectives. First, to evolve an eye that can see an image that reflects human situations and represents their aspirations and second, to understand the camera, the technicalities involved so that it becomes an extension of the photographers inner eye.  

The course commences with workshops that connect students to their own creative selves. The students are then exposed to film SLR cameras to understand basic technicalities. Discussions on history of photography are conducted to a get perspective on evolution of photography as a medium for artistic expression. Students then go on to learn the basics of light, composition, and exposure, shutter speed through various exercises and rigorous feedback sessions.

The next step is to explore new developments in digital photography and utilize them to capture aesthetically stimulating pictures with due respect to the art of photography. Several types of workshops are organized. One, for the understanding of the technical aspects like technical accessories such as flash, studio lights, reflectors, lenses and filters; and others to broaden the horizon of creative expression like music, films, theatre, painting to help understand the basic drive and purpose of documenting human interest through photography. Students are encouraged to visit exhibitions, seminars and symposiums, to participate in debates and discussion to critically deconstruct media and its components.

Photographers of repute visit the campus with their body of work to discuss their approach and experiences. This develops students' mind that looks at things critically so as to evolve an inner eye that sees things with newer perspectives. As the course progresses, discussions and exercises are undertaken on various specializations such as photojournalism, portraiture, fashion and landscape. At the end of the course students are expected showcase best of their work in the annual diploma exhibition.