One Shot Summary

The picture above is from a game called "Roblox - Forest Demo." It shows a peaceful waterfall flowing through rocks and broken trees. For me, this waterfall perfectly captures the essence of my journey in the MMS 173 Photography in Multimedia class.

When I first enrolled in this course, I was excited but also a bit nervous. I didn't really know what to expect. In the self-introduction forum, I shared that one of my goals was to improve my camera skills. However, as the weeks went by, I realized that I was learning so much more than just how to operate a camera. The assignments taught me valuable skills like composing visually appealing shots, using lighting effectively, and choosing interesting subjects for my photographs. I thoroughly enjoyed most of the assignments, especially the photo walks I did as part of the bucket list activity. Those photo walks allowed me to explore my surroundings with a fresh perspective, noticing details and capturing moments that I would have otherwise missed.

Just like the waterfall in the picture, carving its way through the rocks, this class has been a journey of learning and growth for me. I experimented with different photography styles and found new ways to see the world around me. I paid more attention to details and learned to capture special moments that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. However, MMS 173 wasn't just about academics. Working with my classmates helped me appreciate different perspectives and learn from others. I'm particularly grateful to my friend Unicharmed for helping me survive this course. She trusted me enough to lend me her camera, which was incredibly helpful for someone like me who wasn't used to operating a camera. It allowed me to explore the various functions and features hands-on. 

Throughout the trimester, I discovered the power of visual storytelling. Each assignment challenged me to convey emotions, experiences, and narratives through my photographs. Whether it was capturing natural scenery or a man-made structure, I learned to communicate stories and evoke feelings through my images. Primarily, I aimed to improve my photography skills, particularly in operating a camera effectively. The modules uploaded by my professor on the course site were invaluable resources that allowed me to apply the concepts I learned to my actual photography practice. These modules served as comprehensive guides, breaking down complex techniques into easy-to-understand steps, enabling me to grasp the intricacies of photography gradually.

Throughout the course, I actively sought to understand the contributions made by both my peers and tutor. Their feedback and critiques were instrumental in shaping my growth as a photographer. Each comment, whether praising my strengths or highlighting areas for improvement, provided me with a fresh perspective on my work. I made a conscious effort to comprehend their viewpoints, recognizing that their diverse backgrounds and experiences brought unique insights to the table. Reciprocally, I endeavored to ensure that my peers and tutor understood my thought processes and intentions behind each photograph, fostering an environment of mutual understanding and respect.

Reflecting on the quality of my own contributions, I can confidently say that I made significant strides throughout the trimester. As a beginner in photography, I rated myself around 5-6 out of 10 or somewhat in the middle during the 1st-2nd week of the course. However, by the end, I believe I had improved to around 7.5 out of 10. While I've made remarkable progress, I acknowledge that there's still a vast expanse of knowledge and techniques to explore in the world of photography. This course has ignited a passion within me, and I am eager to continue refining my skills and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. Moreover, communication played a vital role in my learning experience. Although I did not join the study group due to a hectic schedule, I don't have any regrets. I had a friend in the class, and we supported each other throughout the course, sharing our successes, challenges, and insights. Additionally, the videos uploaded by my professor were comprehensive and engaging, providing me with ample guidance and inspiration.  Throughout this class, I also learned how important it is to keep trying and never stop learning. Photography, just like any art, is a journey of constant self-discovery and improvement. There were times when I felt frustrated or discouraged, struggling to take the perfect picture or show the emotion I wanted. However, with the support of my friends and classmates, I learned to see these challenges as opportunities to grow. Each obstacle became a stepping stone, pushing me to explore new techniques, try different perspectives, and refine my artistic vision.

I am so grateful for the opportunities this course has provided. It has opened my eyes to the world of visual storytelling and has ignited a passion within me that I never knew I had.  Moving forward, I am excited to continue exploring the vast realm of photography. This course has provided me with a solid foundation, but I recognize that there is still so much more to learn and discover. I plan to immerse myself in various genres of photography, experimenting with different styles and techniques to further enhance my skills.

Photography is not just about taking pictures; it's about capturing moments and telling stories. Every photograph has the power to evoke emotions, spark memories, and transport the viewer to a different time and place. Throughout this course, I've learned to approach each subject with a deeper level of understanding and appreciation, seeking to capture not just the visual elements but also the emotions and narratives that lie beneath the surface. I've also realized how much I've grown (during the 1st week vs now) as a photographer and as a person. I've gained skills, creative expression, and a deeper appreciation for the world around me. Just like the waterfall in the picture, which serves as a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in nature, this course has been a transformative experience for me, nurturing my passion for photography and helping me find peace and joy in the art of capturing moments.