Photography

Year Level: 9/10

Duration: One Semester

Periods: 3/5

Subject Type: Elective

You can study Photography as an elective in both Years 9 and 10. If you wish to continue with Photography you can select it as your chosen medium in VCE either Art: Creative Practice or Media. You can also explore Photography as part of a broader study in Visual Communication Design.

Course Description

In Photography students use the camera as a tool to communicate the vision, message or emotion of the artist. In Year 9 students will learn the basics of using the DSLR's and equipment, as well as building skills in Photoshop. In Year 10, students learn to use the camera more effectively in manual mode.

In both years, students plan shots, learn how to use lighting for effect and to focus and frame images effectively, as well as build on digital editing skills in post-production. Students produce final prints to exhibit. Students look at historical and contemporary photographers and practice the skills involved in visual analysis using appropriate terms related to photographic elements and principles of art and composition.

Students may participate in a range of learning activities which include the following;

Operating a DSLR camera using a range of modes focusing on Shutter Speed and Aperture.
Post-production editing techniques using Adobe Photoshop
Multiple Development tasks that build skills and confidence using the camera and lighting equipment
Investigating different lighting techniques including the use of studio flash and continuous light sources for effect
Planning, researching and editing a final artwork
Analysing the images of historical and contemporary photographers to inform their studio practice

Topics

Year 9 (3ppw)

Rules of Composition

Photoshop Editing

Semi Manual Mode

Year 10 (5ppw)

Camera in Full Manual Mode

Studio Process

Editing Process

Studio Flash and Lighting in Photography

Frequently Asked Questions

What VCE studies does this subject lead to?

This subject leads to VCE studies in Media, Art, Art and Visual Communication Design. The practical skills and creative thinking skills that you learn are likely to contribute to the following years cumulatively as you build understanding and a solid background in the subject area. It is encouraged to take Photography in Year 9 as a precursor to Photography in year 10.

What do we study in Photography?

Students use digital cameras and imaging software (Photoshop) to explore their artistic potential. Students will learn how to plan and produce high quality images that demonstrate a good understanding of composition, lighting, colour and visual impact. Students investigate the works of historical and contemporary photographers as a source of inspiration for their own work.

What sort of students should choose this study?

If you enjoy using your digital camera but would like to take visually more attractive photographs you would enjoy this elective. Students choosing this elective should be self directed, creative, motivated and able to work independently. Photography can be an important means for students to express their identity and worldview. The skills you will learn would compliment elective studies in Visual Communication Design, Art and Media.

What sorts of careers can this study lead to?

The obvious carrer outcome from studying Photography is to become a Photographer. You can become, for instance, a photojournalist, industrial photographer, artist, medical/scientific, forensic or portrait photographer. However, especially in our current digital world, many other jobs and carrers require skills in photography. Careers in Social Media Management, Advertising, Media, Web Design, and Film and Television also require skills in Photography.

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