The Photography Course

Do you have the basics in photography but really feel you would like to get to grips with some of the technical and aesthetic issues of the medium? This intense two-week course will offer a range of projects for you to explore both on and off site, and includes optional visits to exhibitions.

During the first week of the course you will focus on getting the fundamentals right; there will be technical sessions on the use of film and digital SLRs, as well as larger format cameras, in order to develop an awareness of the essential principles, techniques and picture making skills applicable to both digital and traditional media. Each workshop will be supplemented by a slideshow lecture on historical and contemporary artwork that explore a range of creative approaches, and form the basis for the various assignments and accompanying feedback that will help foster a greater critical awareness.

During the second week of the course you will be encouraged to develop your own ideas and experiment further by using the studio, B&W darkroom or digital facilities. This will include a portrait shoot in the studio and an introduction to traditional and alternative printing processes, such as liquid emulsion and pinhole cameras. Finally, the course concludes with an informal review of everyone's work that offers you the chance to get some valuable feedback and think about how you might progress.

Topics will include:

• Controlling exposure
• Lighting on location
• Composition and creative camera control
• Film development and B&W printing
• Studio lighting and portraiture
• Digital editing workflow and ink-jet printing
• Alternative print processes

Note: You need to have a digital camera. The College has a few film cameras that you may be able to borrow for the fist week of the course. If you are not sure of what to buy, you can wait until the first session, when the tutor can give advice on what to buy.

Level: Some experience required

Please note: This course is for students aged 18 and older