Assignment 1 This Week

 Photo I

Week 2

Introduction to Composition

We will learn to use line, mass, value (tone), contrast, color, and selection consciously in the creation of your images.

A big part of the photographer's art lies in one's ability to organize the visual chaos of the visible world. You learn to clarify, simplify and present your environment with intention and control. Here, we will learn to go way beyond "taking pictures", accepting whatever "comes out of the camera", and move to "making photographs" through your careful looking at your subject before shooting.

Reflect on the concept of selection and looking at the edge of the frame to consciously decide what to include and not include in your image. Appreciate light and form and how that is central to your work for this class.

Video discussion:  I discuss what I am looking for this week and go over the good, the dull and the ugly....about 10 min long....This link works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rktHNli_j0A

Look at the work of Edward Weston. Consider this image:

Taking pictures of whole buildings is not what you should be doing.... instead look at details, small angles/reflections in glass, doorways, stairwells, etc.

Take a look at these classic Black and White images which of these ideas can you apply in your own work and editing?

If you have a DSLR, learn about lenses with this excellent article from B and H.

Photo II:

Post a paragraph about your term project.  There are numerous ideas on your syllabus but the list is not exclusive!  Post an image you may have taken illustrating the idea and important!, post an image you have researched by an artist working in the style/genre/theme you are interested in.  I will give you feedback in the comment under your post.

If you are in Photo II but have not had a solid Photo I class, you may work with the Photo I syllabus.  It will be much more valuable for you.  If you are a bit clueless about what I am asking for, you should think about following the Photo I syllabus.