FdA Location Photography (FT)

FdA Location Photography

• Key Information
• Course Content
• Additional Information
• How to Apply

Course Description:

This Foundation Degree, awarded by the University of Central Lancashire, aims to broaden the technical skills and knowledge required for creative expression in Photography and ambitious design work and development of a personal style are strongly encouraged. Students will gain competence and confidence when working and communicating professionally with a range of clients in a variety of Locations. A series of lectures and student led seminars will be enhanced by field trips and guest lectures. Independent study is strongly encouraged as students develop their own independent photographic study which is exhibited in an end of year show.

The course benefits from a cross-campus delivery where modules will be delivered at Myerscough College and at the UCLan campus in Preston, with students having access to facilities and staff expertise across both departments.

COURSE CONTENT:

Year 1

Work Skills Development

This module provides students with first-hand experience where students will use their industry environment to develop practical and technical skills. Students will record and reflect on their own personal development during the module.

Principles and Elements of Design (half module)

This module aims to describe the basic principles involved in design and gives guidance on the development of designs within practical constraints. The module will explore the influential origins of design style. Design is considered in an abstract sense but examples of practical application in a range of disciplines will be provided. The representation of design in drawing and in 3–dimensional form is an important part of the module. The module will also develop skills effective resolution of design problems and introduce drawing techniques for use in communicating design ideas.

Introduction to Photography

Students will be set a series of short assignments exploring a range of technical and critical issues. Basic semiotics and in particular caption and context will be introduced; exercises around changing the meanings of images will apply students understanding from these issues. Basic principles of photography will be discussed including the concept of open and closed narrative, context, image and text, the ambiguity of the photograph etc; these ideas will be discussed in relation to work which follows these conventions and work that operates outside them.

Discussion on the relationship between image and text. Technical skills will include camera skills, basic computer navigation (for both Mac and windows systems), basic Adobe Photoshop principles, digital printing, low light photography, basic use of Flash.

Visualising Ideas

The module will explore the role of ideas in the creation of visual imagery. Students will be asked to reflect on contemporary photography and debate how we make sense of the visual material we produce and encounter in the world around us. Throughout the module, students will gain a sense of what a critically grounded practice is and how to develop one. They will be required to question the role of method, process and critical analysis in current image production. Through live debate, critical forms of writing and the production of their own work they will demonstrate how ideas ground professional standard work in all areas of photographic practice.

Landscape and Natural History Photography

This module aims to explore use of visual imagery via a range of creative skills in landscape and natural history photography. Students will be made aware of the main elements of composition and exposure techniques in photography relevant to different situations and purposes. The module will develop the ability to ‘see’ and record subject matter that translates successfully into black and white and/or colour photographs. Students develop skills in selecting the most successful images which are most appropriate to their aims.

Sport Photography

This module aims to explore sports photography via a range of different working environments. Legal and professional conduct will be incorporated in addition to the specific equipment and techniques required to produce commercially viable images. Students will be made aware of relevant accessories and techniques in sport photography relevant to different situations and purposes. The module will develop the ability to present work in a professional and contemporary context. Students develop skills in evaluating their own and others work.

Photography Skills and Techniques (half module)

This module aims to introduce students to a wide range of cameras and associated equipment, instilling confidence in handling and production skills. Students will become aware of the main structural elements of photographic composition, and develop the ability to ‘see’ and record subject matter in a way which successfully translates into black and white and/or colour images, which can then be selected according to the module’s aims. The module will also enable students to recognise, understand and employ different styles of lighting techniques relevant to a wide variety of photographic situations.

Year 2

Work Project

This module applies the practical, technical and personal skills developed in the Work Skills Development module. It will utilise a structured work environment for students to identify a suitable project, and work with their supervisor in developing and managing the project and reporting on the outcomes. Students will be encouraged to use the work project to develop professional working relationships and identify their chosen career options.

Business and Entrepreneurism

This module will evaluate entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial process to develop students’ business planning skills. This includes marketing and finance in order to aid the formulation of sustainable and enterprising business plans.

The Constructed Image

Lectures on constructed scene photography: artifice and authenticity, post modernisms, photography and identity: representation, the gaze, family album, montage etc. Skills workshops in the use of medium format cameras and digital back, studio lighting, location lighting, studio equipment, ring flash. Strategies for presentation of final work. Seminars and tutorial sessions discussing research, development work and workbooks. Group project that requires student collaboration. Open brief requiring a range of advanced level skills.

Event Photography

This module aims to build on practical skills and knowledge developed from the Level 4 modules to further develop the student’s individual style. This will be developed through research and practical work. Students will be encouraged to develop their individual style and experiment with contemporary photographic practice. All aspects of both public and private event photography will be covered. The module will provide the student with the opportunity to develop skills in time management, client communication and budget constraints.

Independent Photographic Study

This module aims to develop the student’s ability to work independently and build on the Level 4 modules of the programme. This will be a self-directed study project. Students will be encouraged to develop their interest in a specific area of location photography. They will develop their own style and exhibit their work in an end of year show. Display techniques and analytical skills will be developed throughout.

Reportage Photography

Explores the equipment and techniques needed to succeed in this changing field.

Course Documents:

Student Handbook (2015 Entry)

Programme Specification and Handbook (2016 Entry)

Myerscough College Policies and Procedures

Assessment:

Coursework through a range of essays, written reports, critical reviews, case studies, portfolios and sketchbooks.

Links with Professional Body:

Students will be encouraged to develop links with the AOP (Association of Photographers) and RPS (Royal Photographic Society).

Extra Costs:

Additional costs for items that are essential for this course include:

Film, Processing and Printing - £150

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for this course include:

Field Trips and Visits (including possible overseas trips) - £300

Photography Equipment (Cameras, Lenses etc) - £1,000

Waterproof Jacket and Sturdy Footwear - £120

Learning Environment:

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. Students will be expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Group work and group presentations will form an important part of the course. Students will be required to study modules at UCLan (Preston) in each year of the course. Students will also have access to Myerscough's virtual learning environment.

Additional Information:

A number of projects undertaken over both years offer students the possibility of getting their work published in the local press.

Work Experience:

The Workskill Project in Year 1 offers students the opportunity to work with local photographic employers to build up a portfolio of industry experience. There is no formal industry placement on this course.

Progression:

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Degree, students may be able to apply for the ‘top-up’ to BA (Hons) Photography via the final third year at UCLan or another institution.

What careers can you follow:

Photographic careers are dynamic and highly creative. At Myerscough we will offer you the skill set required to work in advertising or editorial, newspaper photojournalism (press), fashion, sport or scientific. In addition to this you will learn the skills required to start up in business and working freelance.

Applications for all full-time undergraduate courses are made via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). To apply, visit their website www.ucas.com/apply. The first UCAS deadline for receipt of applications is 15 January, for the following September.

Applications received after the first UCAS deadline will be considered by us for most courses. If you are applying after the 15 January, or if your pre-entry qualifications are different to those stated, you are advised to contact Course Enquiries on 01995 642211 for further advice. Myerscough College - general contact details Address: Myerscough College, St Michael's Road, Bilsborrow, Preston
Lancashire PR3 0RY
Telephone:01995 642222 Email: enquiries@myerscough.ac.uk Individual Learning Requirements Prospective students who have a learning difficulty or disability that may affect their studies should inform the College as soon as possible so that reasonable adjustments can be initiated, as appropriate. Where necessary students will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments. If students wish to apply for a Disabled Student Allowance they need to seek advice from Student Finance England (or equivalent) which funds this provision for Higher Education Students. Please note that DSA funding is not available on all courses.

Please note that the information provided in this fact sheet was accurate at the date of publication. However, courses are continually being modified and information is therefore subject to change.