Research is the process of gathering information to assist in the generation of ideas.
Research includes analysing and interpreting the information collected and it is more than cutting and pasting collected imagery into a visual diary with random annotations. As a photographer, you need to analyse and interpret your research to determine and justify what is going to be useful as a means for inspiration and as starting point for your work.
When gathering ideas and inspiration you may:
observe objects and complete observational drawings to gain insight into the form and context of an object
take photos of things in your life that inspire you (you can use a phone to take idea development photos)
investigate the work of a photographer, artist or designer
look through websites and follow blogs
subscribe to magazines, including online magazines
listen to songs, watch music videos and look at music media
be inspired to take photographs of your surroundings or the environment suited to or appropriate to the brief
be influenced by your everyday life such as the street you live in or the local café you visit. Stop and look, as you might be inspired
conduct interviews or complete an audience profile
look through books and literature relevant to the brief
visit galleries
look at colour psychology
research the method or technique to achieve a specific type of photo (e.g. long exposures, portrait lighting)
The analysis of research may be focused on an idea or a concept. Inspiration may be found in a method such as learning how specific camera settings have been used or learning a new lighting set up.
In your research, your annotations should focus on future directions that you will take in developing your ideas. These can be small sketches that accompany existing imagery and annotations that will assist you in explaining your ideas. You might like to include a mood board or an audience profile as part of your research.
For Your Portfolio
Tertiary Minimum 2 Pages, Accredited Minimum 1 Page
1. Complete your Mood Board
2. APA reference list for mood board
3. Research
-could be analysis of an image or a photographer's body of work (use the AIMMEE framework to support you)
-could be an explanation of how to do something (e.g. lighting, camera technique)
-could be collecting inspiration from a variety of places (real world, music, other photos etc..)
and explaining how they are connected
4. APA reference your research