Course Syllabus

INTERMEDIATE PHOTOGRAPHY  SPRING 2021 / COURSE OUTLINE
Doug Johnson (johnsond@wellesleyps.org)

 

Course Overview:

The invention of photography has changed the way people perceive the world, and express their ideas and feelings. In this course students will use the camera to look closely at their world, sources for stories within their own experiences, cultural backgrounds, and imagine ways to tell stories using the camera. Photography assignments will stress becoming more aware of what one sees and what can be communicated in a single image, taken at a moment in time.

 

Intermediate Photography is a class designed to improve your camera handling, darkroom techniques and post darkroom work. We will deal with film and digital imagery, including computer alteration, hand painting and toning. Many advanced techniques will be taught throughout the semester. You will learn how to manipulate your images in a variety of ways. Class time will be include looking at master photographer work to help students develop a discriminating eye (composition), learn to deconstruct what they see, and appreciate the importance of photography in today's culture. Students will spend most of their time shooting digital photographs and processing them in Adobe Photoshop. During class critiques students will learn to look carefully at their own work and the work of others and develop the language to articulate what they see. Students will be assessed on how their work shows understanding of concepts, craftsmanship, and expression of compelling content. Final assessment will also include students' willingness to experiment and challenge themselves, and contributions to class discussions. EFFORT counts for a lot in all of my classes. If you make the effort, you will do well in this class. Below are the detailed criteria for grading.

 

Evaluation ~ Grading Requirements:

Student grades will be based on the following requirements:

1.) Handing in at least 15 well-printed photographs, fulfilling class assignments, project criteria etc.

2.) Quality of digital images, negatives and prints, organization, originality/creativity.

3.) Improvement throughout the term.

4.) Altering some images using special techniques.

5.) Participation during class discussions and critiques.

6.) Come to class on time.

7.) Going the extra mile - working during free periods and/or Photo Club in order to achieve high quality work.

 

Students Final Exam will be in the Form of a Portfolio (12  Exhibition Quality Photographs posted online on Behance.net) At the end of the semester we will review all of your work and select your top 15 images. Your final photographs will be touched up and perfected using Adobe Photoshop, and uploaded to The Adobe Behance.net web site. You will continue editing and perfecting your Behance.net Online  Portfolio, so you can submit it along with your college applications.

 

Works in Progress:

I believe there is a very significant interrelationship between process and the end product. Works in progress evaluation is based on punctuality and degree of preparation.

 

Attendance:

Full attendance and punctuality is mandatory. If absent for any reason you must let me know the reason why you were absent at our next class. If your absence is listed as excused, you are responsible for all assignments given during your absence. Please contact me for details about assignment objectives and expectations.

Photo Art Kits, Cubbies and Lab Fee:

This year is different due to Covid-19. When we return to school on October 1st, you will receive a nifty, combination box/binder,( i.e. your photo/art kit), which will contain most of the supplies you will need for this class. Your photo/art kit will be stored in your cubbie, and it is VERY IMPORTANT that you keep track of your stuff, so it stays separated from all of the other students supplies. When we meet for conferences, please have your kit with you so we can access all of your works in progress. You will be assigned your own personal cubbie once you pay your lab fee. This is where you will keep your kit. Please keep your work and materials organized at all times. The lab fee for the class is $60 and will include most materials required for a semester of Intermediate Photography. Please go to www.wellesleyps.org  and make your payment online. Thanks.

 

* Keep your digital camera and/or film camera with you and at all times. You never know when or where an interesting photo opportunity will present itself!

Course Summary:

Date Details Due