P H O T O G R A P H Y I
COURSE DESCRIPTION // This class will introduce you to the principles and processes of photography in such a way that you can soon begin to concentrate on the art of making images. Because photography is a visual language it has a basic vocabulary that you must learn before you can begin to make expressive images. Just as a child learns to speak you will have to practice this vocabulary to master it. The technical processes of black and white photography make up the vocabulary and are basis for the language. Understanding these processes involves learning the principles of light, image composition, camera manipulation, exposure, development and presentation. It is important to remember that learning the vocabulary is not an end in itself, but as something that once mastered, becomes a foundation for creative expression.
Photography is currently undergoing a fundamental transition. Today many more digital cameras are sold than traditional film based cameras. However, understanding the fundamentals of traditional film based photography is of paramount importance. With the digital revolution many photographers have renewed they interest in large and medium format photography, historical processes and experimental approaches in order to personalize the photographic process. The making of a conventional photograph does not occur while you are seated in a task chair chair. It is a multi sensory experiences that allows you to have a tangible, tactile and kinesthetic involvement with all the steps in the creation of your image. These are among the topics that we will explore in Photography I.
MY PLEDGE TO YOU AS THE INSTRUCTOR // As your photography teacher at BVHS I pledge to provide you with the guidance and leadership that fosters the development of your critical thinking skills. I will work to create an atmosphere of give and take where I will be patient, enthusiastic, and prepared with good learning materials, establish clear learning goals and be accountable and honest in my responses to you. I will always encourage experimentation and creative thinking skills with the realization that the results may sometimes be a temporary failure. These momentary failures can provide a valid learning experience that will prepare you for more advanced concepts. I will require that you find your own voice in the development of aesthetic and critical thinking skills. Most importantly I hope to build your confidence by instilling the belief that if you focus on the visual problems, thinking critically and creatively, and act specifically, you will succeed.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY AS A STUDENT // As a student in photography at BVHS you need to have the desire to learn, be self motivated and work for yourself, not to please others. You should be alert, curious, and enthusiastic, pay attention, keep ann open mind and enjoy the learning process. You will be required to set personal goals and maintain a work schedule in lab by managing your time wisely. You must assume responsibility for your actions and accept the challenge to thinking critically about the material. AT the conclusion of your study you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and integrate it into your life. This should lead to a realization of where you are at the moment, where you would like to be in the future, and how to adjust your life to make it happen.
IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT BVHS PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES //
Photography is currently undergoing a fundamental transition. Today many more digital cameras are sold than traditional film based cameras. However, understanding the fundamentals of traditional film based photography is of paramount importance. With the digital revolution many photographers have renewed they interest in large and medium format photography, historical processes and experimental approaches in order to personalize the photographic process. The making of a conventional photograph does not occur while you are seated in a task chair chair. It is a multi sensory experiences that allows you to have a tangible, tactile and kinesthetic involvement with all the steps in the creation of your image. These are among the topics that we will explore in Photography I.
MY PLEDGE TO YOU AS THE INSTRUCTOR // As your photography teacher at BVHS I pledge to provide you with the guidance and leadership that fosters the development of your critical thinking skills. I will work to create an atmosphere of give and take where I will be patient, enthusiastic, and prepared with good learning materials, establish clear learning goals and be accountable and honest in my responses to you. I will always encourage experimentation and creative thinking skills with the realization that the results may sometimes be a temporary failure. These momentary failures can provide a valid learning experience that will prepare you for more advanced concepts. I will require that you find your own voice in the development of aesthetic and critical thinking skills. Most importantly I hope to build your confidence by instilling the belief that if you focus on the visual problems, thinking critically and creatively, and act specifically, you will succeed.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY AS A STUDENT // As a student in photography at BVHS you need to have the desire to learn, be self motivated and work for yourself, not to please others. You should be alert, curious, and enthusiastic, pay attention, keep ann open mind and enjoy the learning process. You will be required to set personal goals and maintain a work schedule in lab by managing your time wisely. You must assume responsibility for your actions and accept the challenge to thinking critically about the material. AT the conclusion of your study you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and integrate it into your life. This should lead to a realization of where you are at the moment, where you would like to be in the future, and how to adjust your life to make it happen.
IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT BVHS PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES //
- Class will stress a systematic approach to all phases of photography. We have to learn the hard stuff before we can do the fun stuff.
- Photographic expression is a skill that can be learned. No one is born an artist. It takes lots of practice just like everything else.
- My goal is to help you learn how to make expressive photographs.
- Your photographic message must reflect your own thoughts, concerns, and experiences. Be honest with yourself. Don't make images that you think your classmates will like, make images that you like.
- What you get out of this class will be directly proportional to the time and effort you are willing and able to invest. The more you do the better the photographer you will be.
- My expectations for you are high.
- There is a considerable out of class time commitment. If you think that sports, jobs, or extra curricular activities exempts you form this commitment you are wrong.
- Procrastination leads to failure.
- Never be satisfied with less than your best effort. You first attempt is not always your best. The only excuse for failure is laziness.
- Take good notes and always ask me if you are unsure of a procedure or concept. Remember there are probably others that do not understand.