Beyond Photoshop: Techniques in Digital Photographic Imaging

Catalog description

Students will learn aspects of photographic image making by capturing, processing, editing, retouching, digital printing, archiving, using digital images in the traditional darkroom, and manipulating of digital photographs with the emphasis on learning specialized software techniques beyond the usual Photoshop fare. Through a series of learning problems, students will focus on developing new skills and knowledge needed to accomplish techniques used in the creation of photo-based digital imagery. These skills include previsualization of images, camera techniques for images that require post-processing (such as stacking), shooting practices for enhanced digital workflow and choosing the image post-processing techniques most appropriate for the end-use of images, color management, digital printing and the use of digital images in the traditional darkroom. With awareness and knowledge of the total process, they will synthesize photographic shooting practices with computer-based image post-processing for creative, and professionally oriented image-making results. They will develop creative, critical and conceptual sensibilities needed to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of others using these methods. Students will identify, research, and analyze effective professional and creative practices in the field of photography with emphasis on developing skillful digital post-processing techniques. The shift to digital imaging has raised ethical challenges in photography-reliant fields such as the arts, sciences, advertising, and journalism. Students will analyze and assess factors necessary to recognize in making ethical image-making decisions. In the darkroom, students will learn to integrate their digital photography with traditional and historic photographic processes blending digital and analog techniques.