Photography I
Course Description
This course allows students to explore the fundamentals of Digital Photography. Four areas of instruction will be emphasized: how cameras work, how composition works, how lighting works, how to use photo editing software. Students will view the work of many different photographers, explore the history of Photography, and learn to appreciate Photography as it enhances our world. Emphasis will be placed on Photography Studio where students will take and edit photos using various materials, methods, and programs. Students will hone skills necessary to successfully transition to AP Studio Art 2-D/ Photography.
At the end of this course, students will:
• Know how to use various features of the camera to have creative control of your photographs
• Be able to decide what type of lighting to use in a given situation to produce optimum results
• See how photographic composition can make or break a photograph
• Understand how to use photo editing software to improve the overall appearance of images
Students are encouraged to express themselves freely within the guidelines of each project.
Course Topics
Topics will vary depending on the interests and abilities of the class.
Required Materials
• Access to a digital camera is essential! (Both Compact Digital Cameras or SLR Digital cameras are acceptable.)
• A portable USB drive
Daily Procedures
1. Roll/ Bell Work – Photographic Journal
2. Viewing/ Discussing Photography and the History of Photography
3. Demonstration (when necessary)
4. Photography Studio
5. Turn in Work if Finished/ Save Work if Unfinished
6. Clean Up
Attendance
It is important to be in class every day to receive instruction and feedback. Access to school materials and equipment is confined to the classroom and lack of access can greatly hinder a student’s ability to successfully complete assignments.
Classroom Expectations
Always bring your supplies (camera, flashdrive, saved images) to class.
Respect others, yourself, and the materials.
Try your hardest to master every technique.
Discipline
The disruptive behavior of one student deprives all others of their opportunity to learn by eliminating concentration and monopolizing the teacher’s time. Detentions and referrals will be used in accordance with TPS policy as necessary to give all students a fair opportunity to learn.
Grading
A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = 59-0%
All people have different artistic visions. To accommodate these differences, assignments will be graded based on the following criteria:
1. Effort – concentrating and giving your best, positive attitude and attendance
2. Composition – effective use of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design
3. Craftsmanship – overall quality of the work
4. Creativity – showing a vision unique to each artist.
All students will be expected to compile and submit a digital portfolio of their work at the end of each semester.
All students will be expected to enter at least 2 photography contests, 1 per semester.
All students will be expected to participate responsibly and sensitively in oral and written critiques, classroom discussions, and oral presentations.
Communication
I love to hear from parents/guardians! Photography is an exciting class and we have a lot to share. Please contact me whenever you have questions or concerns. I will be working my hardest during class time to inspire your students, so please e-mail at thomaju@tulsaschools.org or call during my planning period, 4th hour from 11:11-12:29pm.
I’m looking forward to a very creative year!