SOFA 103: Syllabus

Modified

January 20, 2026

Professor

  • Dr. Flip Phillips
  • Office: MSS 71-3163
  • Office hours: By appointment
  • Email: fxpppr@rit.edu

Teaching Assistant

  • Theodore Ignatovsky
  • Email: tvi3799@rit.edu
  • Office hours: TuFr 11:00am-12:00pm
  • Where: “MPS Store” GAN-A096

Overview

This course provides an introductory survey to imaging science and sets the foundation for subsequent Motion Picture Science (MPS) and Imaging Science (CIS) courses.

Topics include:

  • The imaging chain
  • Physics of light
  • Optics
  • Basic photography

Additionally, the fundamentals of imaging and video technologies prevalent in photography, motion picture, and related industries will be presented:

  • Digital image structure
  • Color theory
  • Film and video basics
  • Motion picture workflows
  • Signal encoding and compression for images and movies
  • Digital image processing

Learning Outcomes

Students who complete this course will be able to:

  • Understand and explain core concepts in imaging and motion picture science.
  • Apply foundational principles to practical motion picture imaging scenarios.
  • Analyze and evaluate imaging technologies and workflows for motion pictures.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in basic imaging techniques and tools.
  • All in static and moving imaging contexts.
  • All in mostly digital contexts.

Assessment

Proposed weighting (adjust as needed):

  • Projects — 50%
  • Participation & presence — 10%
  • Exercises & quizzes — 15%
  • Final Exam — 25%

Grading notes

  • There are a series of projects due throughout the semester. Each project will have its own rubric and requirements.
  • Participation and presence includes attendance, engagement in class discussions, and overall contribution to the class.
  • See the Policies page for late work, academic integrity, and other guidelines.

Communication

  • Primary channel is via Slack: https://rit-sofa-103.slack.com
  • Office hours: By appointment (email to schedule).
  • Email: Use for urgent matters only (expect 24-48 hour response time).

Weekly Rhythm

  • Class meetings: MWF 13:00-13:50 in GAN A155.
  • Labs or workshops: F 14:00-16:50 in MS 3170.

Materials

  • Required software: Excel, Fiji/ImageJ.
  • Recommended software: Mathematica, MATLAB, or Python with relevant libraries.

Key Dates

Our somewhat detailed course schedule can be found here.

Subject to Change

This schedule is subject to change. Please check for updates regularly. See the Policies page for late work, academic integrity, and other guidelines.