Digital Cameras & Image Editing

Brochure Description

A short course about getting the most from your camera, downloading pictures and editing them on your PC. The course will use freely downloadable software called The Gimp which is similar in use to Photoshop.

What will the course cover and how will it be taught?

During the course you will look at the following topics:

 A brief history of digital cameras.

 Summary of types of digital cameras –compact camera,digital SLR, mobile phone

 Principles of how a digital camera works–understanding settings

 Transferring pictures to your PC

 Organising pictures on your PC

 Making simple changes to pictures(brightness, contrast, resizing, cropping)

 File formats, raw, bmp, jpg. Lossy formats.

 Image processing –resolution, screen, print,

 Online storage, archiving.

 Downloading and using The Gimp*free photo editing software

*The photo editing aspects of the course will use a program called The Gimp. This is free “open source” software which you can download from the web, and is similar in many respects to Photoshop.

Your tutor will discuss the course content with the class and may make some adjustments to the syllabus based on the needs of the group. Hewill also try to accommodate individual requirements where it is practical to do so. Teaching will be by verbal instruction then hands on experience. Printed handoutswill be given, and some web-based resources may be used. You will be able to see how you are getting on by getting verbal feedbackfrom the tutor and by completing tasks for each week.

Are there specific requirements for joining?

It is not essential to own digital camera or computer, but it will be beneficial. It will also be useful if you have some images to bring. You will need to basic familiarity with using a computer, in particular being able to move and copy files. However help will be given if you are not very confident in this area.

Will there be any homework and how long will it take?

Expect to spend about half an hour each week.

What about equipment, clothing and materials?

Please bring your digital camera along if you have one. Do make sure that the battery is fully charged! Also bring your camera USB cable. You may find the instruction manual useful. Computers will be provided by Queen Katherine School, software will be pre-installed. Course materials will be pre-installed. There may be a cost for printing your pictures. Please also bring a pen, a notebook. Don’t forgetyour glasses, if you need them.

Parking & Venue Information

The school is located on Appleby Road, near to Morrisons Car parking is available in the school grounds out of school hours. Learning Resource Centre (LRC). Use main school entrance. Pass reception then turn right up the stairs.