Syllabus

Description:

Digital Photography is a studio, hands-on class. It introduces students to the basic techniques of digital photography using the D-SLR (digital single lens reflex) camera. While the majority of this class is dedicated to the mechanics of the camera and use of professional imaging software, aesthetic and composition is also an important part of the class. Students are though it is not required students are encouraged to enroll in DDM110 (Intro to Mac) prior to taking this course or have a comfortable familiarity with graphic or image editing software.

Outcomes & Assessment

The learning activities, assignments, and exams in this course assess your mastery of the learning outcomes. First semester outcomes will include the understanding and development of:

Demonstrate basic working knowledge of the D-SLR camera functions

Demonstrate basic working knowledge of professional digital darkroom software such as Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom and/or Apple Aperture.

Achieve an understanding of the strengths and limitations of the digital single lens reflex camera.

Develop an understanding of output sources such as print, web, video and alternative processes.

Gain a working knowledge of basic printing techniques and  papers.

Develop a working vocabulary in photography; camera, processing and design as related to photography.

Achieve an introductory level of understanding design and composition as related to the photographic image.

Successive semester outcomes are refinement and maturation of the first semester goals, including exploration of various means and methods of photographic processes as an artistic medium.

Materials:

Books etc: 

Adobe Creative Cloud

Sugested: Photography: the essential Way, by London, Stone, and Upton ISBN-13: 978-0-13-614276+8 – OR – Photography: 9th Edition, by London, Stone, and Upton ISBN-13:978-0-13-175201-6 (Hope you kept it)

Suggested book: (Optional) Perception and Imaging, - A Way of Seeing Photography,Third Edition, Richard D. Zakia.

Suggested book: (Optional) Basic Critical Theory for Photographers, Ashely la Grange.

Materials

Gmail account

Pintrest account

Note book (2): 1. In class note book 2. shooting note book 3x6ish

Camera manual (matching the camera you are using): You can download PDF versions for Nikon cameras at http://www.nikonusa.com/, or Canon cameras at http://www.usa.canon.com/home. DO NOT USING THE SCHOOLS PRINTERS TO PRINT MANUALS! A good alternative is to save them to your phone.

Storage Device: Multiple storage devices are necessary. They are all designed to fail at the worst possible time so you will want to back up your work OFTEN. A portable Hard Drive at least 250 gb is strongly suggested.

Folders: Sturdy envelope(s) for turning in print. 

Mat board, mat tape, metal ruler, exacto knife, and (sharp) pencil.

Cameras provided: I do suggest that throughout the semester you experiment with both cameras. Cameras may be checked out weekly (must be renewed weekly (key word here is weekly, (Did I say weekly? (yes weekly!)))) You may keep the same camera but it must be checked and documented by one of the student workers. I do suggest that you experiment with both the Canon and Nikon at some point during the semester.

NOTE: Your own Camera: You may use your own camera provided it meets the instructors approval. If you chose to use your own camera or purchase one for the class it must be approved by the instructor.

Projects, Assignments, Finals, and other stuff...

Assignments

Assignments are ‘assigned’ approximately every 2 weeks, and critiqued by the class on the days defined on the Schedule. They are intended to address specific tools, and techniques of photography.

Projects:

Students are allowed to shoot any subject matter that interests them. This can be a continuation of an assignment or a peruse of personal interests A minim of 1 images per week are required. Projects will be checked and graded as defined by the schedule.

Quizzes, Writing, and Presentations

Quizzes and writing assignments will be given at the desecration of the instructor over reading or research assignments, technical information, and lecture to strengthen and evaluate students understanding of the material. Three brief presentations on artist will be given through out the semester.

Final

The final for photography will consist of a complete portfolio of the work through out the class, plus 10 images (not used as assignments or projects). A minimum of 4 of the 10 images are to be matted (framing is optional).

Evaluation

The largest weight of your grade will be place on individual progress and growth in the class. Evaluation will primarily be based on technical aspects of your work, proper exposure, and control of the camera functions through prints and digital presentation of your work. Design, composition, and esthetics, will also be a consideration but to a lesser extent. As an introductory photography course we are primary focused on mastering and controlling the basic functions of the D-SLR camera. Class participation will also be a strong factor in the evaluation process. 

Grading

    60% assignments & projects

    30% participation, work ethic, attitude, effort

    10% test, quizzes, and presentations

A, A- Excellence in technical, design, and concept.

B+, B, B- High quality work, steady progress in both technical and artistic development.

C+, C, C- Acceptable quality and effort.

D Deficient but passing. 

F Failure to meet minimum requirements.

WP Will only be given to students who meet with the instructor to evaluate their options.

WF AWAL (Absent With Out Leave) Students. If you disappear and I do not hear from you WF WILL be the grade you receive.

I Incomplete will only be given to students who are unable to due to emergency.

Attendance:

Attendance is essential. In order to pass the course you are only allowed 4 absences. More than 4 will result in a grade of WD, WF, F, or I, depending on the circumstances.

Punctuality is part of attendance. Unexcused and excessive lateness will not be tolerated. Students who are late 2 times will receive 1 absence.

In order to be considered for an excused absence or late arrival students MUST contact the instructor by e-mail or phone BEFORE the class in question. Emergency situations do arise and will be assessed on an individual basis.

2 times late = 1 absence

3 absences = loss of one letter grade

4 absences = loss of 2 letter grades, etc. 

5 absences = D (not able to pass to photo II)

6 absences = F (regardless of grade to that point)

Your Responsibilities

Note: Failure to meet, or abuse of any of the following will result in either failure of the class or immediate removal from the class at the discretion of the instructor.

Turning work in late. If needed, turn work in prior do due date (prints for critique or post to the blog as appropriate).

Missing critiques. It is essential that not only your work be present but you as well. 

Participating in critiques. You will need to discuss your own work, and express your thoughts on others.   

Being in class on time and having necessary work and materials.

Proper use of lab/studio facilities. 

Cleaning up after yourself. The studio should be left as you found it, (better if possible). It is no one is paid to clean up after you. If you make a mess, pick it up. If you move something, put it back. If you barrow it...

Respect for facilities and others in the DDM. (Including, but not limited to... Excessive noise, improper use of equipment and facilities, rude or disrespectful speaking or behavior, disruptive behavior). 

Assigned cameras are to be checked every 2 weeks, all other equipment is to be returned or rechecked out weekly or as agreed at the time of checkout. Students are financially responsible for any missing or damaged equipment. If you are not asked to have your camera checked it is your responsibility to bring it to the instructor or worker to have it checked.

ADA

In accordance with University Policy 2310 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any student needing academic accommodations should first contact UNM-Gallup Accessibility Services at 505 863 7660 (Gurley Hall 1133.) It is also imperative that you take the initiative to bring such needs to the instructor€™s attention, as I am not legally permitted to inquire. Students who may require assistance in emergency evacuations should contact the instructor as to the most appropriate procedures to follow.

Note: This syllabus and outline is subject to change. It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of changes should they occur.