Module: PHO4010-20 Introduction to Fashion Photography

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Seamus Nicolson

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.nicolson@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to the potential of the photographic fashion image. You will gain an understanding of the principles of interpreting images, and the role a photographer can play in establishing fashion identities through art direction and photographic production within diverse contexts. You will experiment with a range of practical techniques while you orientate yourself within the resources and facilities in the school - in particular studio lighting methods and the school technical workshops which will assist your practice throughout your study.

Throughout the module you will explore contemporary fashion photography practice within global contexts while also researching the histories of your subject specialism. Emphasis is placed on diversity,

inclusivity and sustainability when exploring contexts and audiences for photographic practice in fashion promotion.

The module aims to:

● Develop your ability to engage with production methods and materials associated with the production of fashion photography.qw

● Introduce you to school workshops that will build your practical skills in your specialist practice.

● Introduce you to research methodologies and critical dialogue within your subject specialism of fashion photography.

● Develop your ability to contextualise and reflect on your practice.

● Begin to develop your awareness of the range of opportunities available to facilitate your professional development as a creative practitioner.

2.Outline syllabus:

Technical workshops and practical demonstrations will introduce you to the photographic lighting studios. You will explore a range of digital equipment and digital darkroom techniques employed within fashion photography.

Art direction and styling methods will be explored through the use of of the school technical workshops assisting you with fabrication of props and materials for your photographs.

Through a series of introductory seminars on fashion photographic practice you will explore a variety of theoretical concepts and debates relating to contemporary fashion photographic practice. Library resources and guest lectures will support this practice.

You will be required to critically reflect on your research and process methods throughout the module. You will keep a reflective journal and engage in self and peer critique. Further guidance on these processes will be provided through group tutorial and online resources via Minerva.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

A project brief enables you to creatively explore fashion image making techniques. You will develop your ability to contextualise your photographic work by examining fashion histories, contemporary practices and professional techniques.

As the module progresses you will engage in the following:

● Lectures and seminars

● Technical workshops

● Industry guest lectures

● Group tutorials

● Research methodologies

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Personal portfolio of photographic images

• % Weighting: 70%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Reflective journal

• % Weighting: 30%