Course Resources Archive

This practical module provides an initial introduction to technical processes, equipment and working methods employed within the broad photographic industry.  The module provides the opportunity to explore a range of techniques involved in creating photographs and start to question one’s approach to capturing images.

This module will provide students with an introduction to the techniques and processes of photography and provide a sound technical foundation for future studies to build upon.  Students will also gain knowledge of Health and Safety, and other procedural practices, associated with Professional Photographic practice, the use of Studios and Darkrooms. 

Students will be required to engage with a series of inductions, lectures and workshops which cover four key aspects of photographic practice:

Cameras and Exposure choices:

The use of Light meters, Aperture, Shutter speed, Depth of Field and Bellows Extension.  Using and comparing 35mm film Single Lens Reflex camera, Medium format cameras and Large Format cameras.

Flash and the Studio:

Using studio and location flash and continuous light sources, flash metering and lighting ratios, the qualities of light, Colour Temperature, fill-in flash and balancing daylight with flash.

Silver Halide Film and the Darkroom:

Black and White film, developing and printing, toning, Lith printing.

Digital Workflow:

Considering the effective use of DSLR’s, jpeg and RAW image files, processing digital images using Photoshop, Scanning film, image and file resolution and output.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1)    Demonstrate a broad understanding of techniques and practices of photography.

2)    Demonstrate an understanding of the use of a range of photographic equipment, including the appropriate use and selection of new technologies alongside traditional skills and production methodologies.

3)    Demonstrate an understanding of the technologies and principles utilised in photographic image capture, manipulation and print production.

4)    Demonstrate a broad understand of the terminology and application of technical photographic skills in relation to creative problem solving.

5)     Consider a photography related technical problem and formulate independent judgments and articulate reasoned arguments through reflection, review and evaluation. Effectively interrogate, communicate and reformulate ideas and principles regarding approaches to photographic image production.

6)         Manage workloads to meet deadlines, evaluate and reflect upon your learning and study skills in order to become an independent learner. Critically review your technical photographic skills and develop personal goals and effective strategies towards achieving the technical skills and proficiency that meet the requirements of your career goals.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.