MMS 173 Assignment 2:

Knowing where you're at

(Part 2)

General Assessment

In conducting the general assessment of the class, I used an online random number generator and picked ePortfolios with the corresponding numbers. I browsed through 16 of my coursemate’s ePortfolios, and based on what I saw, I made up categories of skill level in photography: beginner, amateur, and professional.

I believe most of my coursemates have an amateur skill level in photography. This level includes a broad spectrum of skill and experience, ranging from those who have just started exploring photography to seasoned hobbyists with more extensive experience. The photos in their assignments showed that they were somewhat familiar with the creative and technical aspects of photography. They valued many of the elements of design, such as color, line, shape, and form, as well as the principles of design, such as balance, emphasis, and contrast. Some also demonstrated their ability for expression and storytelling. This group showcased many of their strengths through their photos, but I believe they have weaknesses that hold them back from transitioning from good to great photographers. I noticed that the quality of photos they selected was either consistently okay with few standout issues, or varied significantly, with a few lucky shots alongside others that lacked the same level of finesse. In some cases, they chose interesting subjects, but the composition sometimes didn’t effectively translate into their intended vision, with photos lacking appeal or impact. Other times, their shots would have distracting figures in the background or foreground of what would otherwise be a good photo. Technical issues were also evident, such as inconsistent exposure with some photos being underexposed or overexposed, and minor compositional errors like a slightly off horizon line or a cropped subject, which detracted the overall impact of their photos. Despite these, I do believe they have the potential to be great photographers.

There were also a few coursemates whose portfolios stood out to me, which made me think they could work as professional photographers if they wanted to (if they weren’t already). Their photos consistently showed a strong familiarity and an expert command of design elements, principles, and composition. Their photos also felt alive as if they literally captured the moment. I could easily see their work as stock photos that I would use in editing an audio-visual presentation before realizing I need to pay to use them. Ultimately, if I could describe them with one word, it would be “deliberate”.

Just as uncommon as those who I thought were at a professional level were those at the beginner level in photography. Most of their photos were ordinary, much like the snapshots taken by everyday people. The photos seemed to merely document what they saw, and lacked the vision or the technical knowledge that elevates photography beyond simple documentation. If they haven’t practiced their photography skills yet, I believe it would be best for them to start now to pass this course.

Five Photos

Play With Fire by Glyza Gale Catalan

I was so drawn by this photo when I browsed through her assignment. This photo looks as if it were a still from a film. The most prominent elements of design in this photo are value, form, and space which effectively contribute to the mood and focus on the subject. The values here bring contrast through the dark background and the bright flame against it, emphasizing the candle and the girl. The light from the candle causes shadows to cast from the girl’s features and clothes, giving her a more defined form which also makes her visually interesting. The negative space also helps in drawing the eyes to the girl and the candle. Overall, the choices made here feel intentional.

Tatay Boyet’s Baptism by Lemuel Micoh Larain Dizon

I love the candidness that Dizon was able to capture here. This photo makes me feel like I was there with them during the baptism. The most prominent elements of design here are texture and shape. The photo captures many textures such as the ripples of the water, the wet clothes, and the coarse walls. The shallow depth of field helps to define the subjects' shape, separating them from the background. The photo seems to follow the rule of thirds with the leftmost person positioned on the left vertical gridline and his head on the intersection of the same gridline and the top horizontal gridline. It also seems to use asymmetrical balance. While the second man is in the middle, the first man and the woman are not at an equal distance from him. There's still a sense of balance as their differing sizes and placements create a visual weight that evens out the composition.

By Jeoffrey Manuel

I appreciate how Manuel captured the intricate forms that make up this building. The most prominent elements of design here are form, shape, and value. The dark values of the shadow define the many small forms of the building as well as solid shapes. Many forms and shapes repeat throughout the photo, creating a sense of rhythm and unity. There are also leading lines that converge to a sculpture incorporated into a pillar which makes for an interesting focal point. One thing I'm not sure about this photo are the leaves at the top left. On one hand, they give a nice break from the almost monotonous colors and repetition. On the other hand, they may distract from the details of the building. It's still very much a lovely architectural photo.

A Scene From a Boat Ride by Aezhl Alleone Deca Rebutoc

I love the vibrant blues and greens in this photo, especially the slight gradient in the sea. The most prominent elements of design here are line, color, and shape. The lines made by the ropes of the boat create a frame within a frame, with majority of the island inside of it. The majority of the photo having blue helps define the shape of the green island. The photo seems to follow the rule of thirds as the left side of the island starts at the left vertical gridline. One issue I could see here is that the horizon line is slightly off, but that could be easily fixed by rotating the photo in post-processing.

Sea waves in fair weather by Angel Eunice Tagriza

Similar to the previous photo, I also love the blues of the sky and the sea captured here. I also appreciate the simplicity provided by the limited palette. The most prominent elements of design here are line, color, and texture. The three major lines are created by the horizon line and the white crests of two waves. Starting from the bottom wave, the photo could demonstrate the rule of thirds as this wave rests at the bottom horizontal gridline while the bottom end of the clouds rests at the top horizontal gridline. The photo also captures the few textures present such as the ripples, bubbles, and foam from the waves as well as the wispy texture of the clouds These textures add depth and interest to an otherwise minimal composition. Another similarity to the previous photo is that the horizon line is slightly off. Although, I don't think it detracts much from the impact of the photo.

Self-Assessment

Now that I’ve seen what my coursemates can do, I went back to my assignment to rate myself as I’ve rated them here. In terms of skill level, I would place myself at the lower end of the amateur level. The photos I selected for the assignment showed some of my understanding of the design elements and principles, and they did have a degree of intentionality. However, these photos varied in quality. One of the photos had a decent sense of color and composition, and it was noticeably better and more refined than the other two photos. Another photo looked a bit too busy with distracting elements in the foreground and background. The third photo had defined simple shapes but could use some tweaks in color. Overall, these photos show that I have a lot of learning to do.

Moving forward, I need to lay down a structured plan for improving my skills, starting with mastering the application of design elements and principles, composition, and lighting. I’ve already started practicing on my own but the sessions aren’t as frequent as I want them to be. Aside from establishing a consistent practice routine,I realize now that what may be the most important of my plan is to set specific goals. I often find myself lost and indecisive during my practice sessions because I don’t have a clear focus on what I’m trying to achieve. By setting specific, measurable goals—such as shooting five photos that demonstrate strong use of leading lines or five photos that demonstrate contrast—I can make each session more purposeful and productive. These goals would also help me track my progress more effectively and stay motivated as I work towards developing my skills. It might also be worthwhile to consider seeking critique on this course’s discussion forums. I hope with a clearer plan and consistent effort that I can steadily improve and gain more confidence in photography.

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