Documentary photography
Course
In London
Description
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Type
Course
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Location
London
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Start date
Different dates available
This course introduces the genre of documentary photography, covering its fascinating theory and history and encouraging image analysis and discussions while working towards your own practical documentary project. You will learn about different visual languages in documentary photography and how they convey messages, and consider the issues of objectivity and truth. You will get to understand the impact and potential of documenting the world around us, and delivering this as a story to a public. You will work on short-term and long-term projects, leading to an exciting and varied portfolio of work.
What previous students have loved about the course:
“I liked the discussion in class, the brainstorming sessions and also the varied examples out tutor was bringing into class every session.”
“The way the teacher remained focused on the type of photography (here: docu) although many diversions could have intervened.”
“The quality of teaching was excellent, I found the discussions useful and receiving feedback on my work very useful too.”
“The viewing of other documentary projects and in-class review of work.”
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
- achieve better photographs with great expressive value through control of camera settings, composition and lighting
- produce several thoughtful, themed projects that can work as a portfolio
- apply effective storytelling techniques inspired by traditional and contemporary documentary genres in a creative and critical manner
- use traditional formats or new technology for presentation and distribution.
What students have achieved on their Documentary photography course run in 2014/15:
“Wide overview of documentary photography and a closer eye on technical/editorial/process of the field. Appreciation and critical insight into variety of photographers work.” CW
“I have significantly improved my understanding of what constitutes documentary photography. I have learnt a lot about documentary photography theory and had the opportunity to put things into practice.” CH
“I have learnt about putting together a story through images, editing and using text.”
“I can see more clearly how a documentary project can be done, what the concerns are in relation to subject matter and production of it.” CA
“A much broader assessment of what is required/ or how much input I must make – to a docu project, before, during and after. “ SB
Please bring your camera if you have one; if you don't City Lit has cameras and equipment you can borrow during the hours of the class. You will be expected to cover the costs of the materials you use in your project work.
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If you would like to buy art materials for your personal use outside of the course, City Lit students receive 10% discount off everything* from Cass Art, the UK's leading art supplies retailer. Your tutor will advise you on what you should buy. You will need to show your enrolment receipt in-store to receive your discount
You will be taught via illustrated lectures, workshops and group and individual projects. Regular individual practical projects will also be realised outside the class. While demonstrations and illustrated lectures will guide, advice and teach you, you will benefit from a positive group dynamic where you can share your images and ideas in a supportive environment.
Reviews
Subjects
- Truth
- Image
Course programme
– Documentary photography and communicating through images: the tradition of the photo-essay; contemporary creative storytelling and new media
– Objective and subjective dimensions of documentary photography
– Technical choices, expressive impact and truth; the language of natural light; compositional choices
– Achieving historical perspectives in documentary photography
– Analysis of contemporary documentary practice
– The social function of documentary, from social reform to campaigning
– Distinguishing in-depth story and the news image
– Practical, ethical and legal issues
– Editing and digital workflows
– Platforms for publishing, exhibiting and showcasing your photographic documentary work.
Additional information
Documentary photography