Beginning Photography

Catalog description

Fundamental techniques and approaches to the art of photography utilizing digital photographic technologies; digital camera required. ART 290 . Beginning Photography (3)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. ART 290 is the first course for students who desire to pursue a concentration in photography. It will focus on the process of making photographs and the development of a critical understanding of photographic images and their evaluation.In ART 290 students will develop the habit of taking photographs on a regular basis. Each week, students will be expected to turn in 24 pictures on one of five assignments for review and critique by both instructors and members of the class. Each assignment will be covered over a three-week period.The topics of the five assignments will vary, but each will focus on important aspects of photography. They may include: portraits, self-portraits, nature photographs, travel photographs, documentary series, experimental images, action assignments, etc. The final assignment will be a self-defined topic that allows the student to explore and work in an area of personal interest. Each topic will be selected to acquaint the student with important aesthetic principals in photography and at the same time advance their technical skill in the process of making photographic images.As part of the five assignments in ART 290 , students will also gain background on the history of photography and the critical evaluation of photographs. For each assignment there will be an accompanying gallery of work by other photographers (professionals, amateurs, and students) on the assigned topic area. Each photograph in the gallery will be accompanied by an "artist's statement" - a written critical statement where the photographer describes his or her work and methods.Students will be required to complete each of the five assigned topics by submitting a final "gallery" of four photographs with a written "artist's statement" that speaks to the intent, process, and result of their work. Final submissions will help students develop skills in not only making photographs but critically evaluating their own work and articulating their personal means, methods, and objectives as photographers.Grading will be based on (1) the completion of weekly submissions, (2) the quality of photographs in final submissions for each assignment, (3) attendance, and (4) participation in critiques.A digital camera is required. ART 290 will be offered fall and spring semesters.