PDM - Photography and digital media

Stage 5 Photography and Digital Media offers a wide range of practical & creative making experiences through a range of strategies and themes:

Year 9

• Introduction to Photography - Focusing on Manual DSLR use and composition

• Surrealism - Critical / Historical Case study and Adobe Photoshop focus.

• Film - Focusing on movement and Adobe Premiere Pro

• Contrast - Conceptual and compositional contrast in images using Adobe Lightroom

Year 10

• Narrative Photography - Communication a story through still images 

• Let there be Light and Shadows - studio lighting, light painting, day and night photography

• Tiny Worlds - Macro photography and Postmodern practices

• Professional Portfolios - Using Curatorial discernment to practice industry presentation 

PDM is a Creative Arts subject that has both practical and written components. Students must be dedicated to their practice as a photographer/digital artist, taking photos outside of school hours and honing their craft for assessment tasks on their choice of subject matter  and various photographic techniques and equipment.

Students will need to frequently practice and refine their works in their own time to extend their capabilities in the photographic and digital artmaking fields.

Students will be given access to DSLR cameras, various Adobe Creative Cloud software for use on their own laptops (alternatives for iPads/tablet devices can be found) and studio and lighting equipment.

Do I need to have a Digital SLR camera or other specialist equipment to study PDM?

Students are not expected to own their own DSLR camera. There are cameras that are available to borrow- however students must adhere to all correct and safe camera and PDM equipment practices to borrow. Students can use their own cameras at home taking their own images also.

Although it is not a requirement, it is preferable students have a laptop and not an ipad to be able to use Adobe Creative Cloud (e.g. Photoshop) on their own device.

Why should I study PDM?

If you enjoy any aspect of learning about and making photographic, film, or digital art or any other digital art medium you should study PDM! Studying Photography and Digital Media is an opportunity to delve deeper into your passion and create works which explore a variety of ideas and themes developing new skills along the way. This involves researching new ideas, practicing new techniques and pushing your ability to think creatively. Additionally, by exploring Criticism and History you will also develop knowledge about inspiring artists, photographers, filmmakers, instatation and digital artists and how and why these practices have developed over time.

Will I need to practice photography at home?

Yes! Photography is a subject where you need to work critically and creatively at home to reflect on your creations and practice your skills and compositions. PDM is a rewarding subject for which your hard work and critical self-assessment will pay off if you are consistent and regular in your practice.

How much theory is in the stage 5 Creative Arts courses?

Stage 5 Creative arts courses have a syllabus requirement of 60% Practical work and 40% Critical and Historical Studies. This means both class time allocation and assessments are dedicated more to practical making development.

What can Photography and Digital Media lead to career-wise?

The study of PDM provides students with knowledge and understanding, lateral thinking processes and problem-solving skills that form a valuable foundation for a range of courses at University, Tafe and other tertiary institutions as well as in the Visual and Creative Arts Industries. Please see the attached link for more information.

The Stage 5 Photography and Digital Media Course serves as a pathway for the study of Stage 6 HSC Visual Arts, where you can specialise in your area of interest and making practices. This course can lead to further training and employment in the Creative Arts and Design industry, Artistic practice, Photographic and Filmmaking fields or tertiary studies at University or Tafe. 

I have more questions - who can I ask?

Please come and see or email our Creative Arts teachers: 

• Ms Andrews (CAPA LoL): tandrews2@parra.catholic.edu.au

• Ms Handsley-Delves: ehandsleydelves@parra.catholic.edu.au

• Mrs Kelly: rkelly15@parra.catholic.edu.au

• Ms Kovacic: kkovacic@parra.catholic.edu.au

• Mrs Malizis: rmalizis@parra.catholic.edu.au