Photography I: Digital - Fall 2021

DESCRIPTION
Photography I: Digital is an introduction to the creative and technical processes of photography through digital media. The course is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of photography through exercises and creative assignments using a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera (or equivalent, such as a mirrorless camera). Students gain a basic understanding of digital media, a thorough knowledge of camera operation and photographic processes, while also engaging concepts of composition, style and medium.

This course is designed for those who have little or no previous experience in photography and there is no prerequisite. In addition to weekly shooting assignments, class sessions include critiques, lecture, in class hands-on exercises, and the review of weekly shooting assignments. Critiques are an important aspect of photographic education and class critiques are intended to acquaint students with the language of photography and the basic critical skills for conceptualizing, creating, viewing and discussing photographic images.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

• Learn to operate a Digital SLR Camera (or equivalent camera) in manual mode (including controlling aperture, shutter speed, ISO, manual focus, white balance, file size, etc.)
• Full understanding of the three factors of exposure: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
• Learn to utilize white balance and color balance
• Utilize your digital light meter for correct exposure and creative lighting
• Brief introduction to the history of photography and regular lectures with focus toward discussing core photographic tenets of composition, exposure, etc.
• Introduction to digital workflow using Adobe Lightroom
• Explore photography as a creative tool to develop a body of work that speaks to your personal viewpoint

COURSE OUTCOMES
Students will complete the course with:

• Fluency in digital SLR camera function and operation
• Foundation of basic workflow from capture to camera upload, image organization, editing, and export/printing
• Understanding of core tenets of photography including composition, framing, depth of field, exposure, contrast, leading lines, etc.
• Experience participating in critique, exploring artistic vision, and realizing a personal project
• Ability to apply technical skills and photographic knowledge/vocabulary to personal practice

NOTES

• Students must have a digital camera with full manual control (e.g. Digital SLR), including a range of shutter speeds and aperture settings.
• Students should expect to spend several hours per week on assignments for this course, which may require use of PCNW facilities; view our Rental Rates for details about additional fees.
• The Materials Fee for the course includes a digital print allotment for in-class and outside of class printing, the details of which will be shared on the first day. Other supplies are the responsibility of the student.
• Additional information about course expectations and required materials will be provided by the instructor at the start of the quarter.

Image © Zorn B. Taylor