Course Resources Archive

This practical module provides an initial introduction to concepts, working methods and resources utilised in Photojournalism.  The module provides the opportunity to explore the techniques involved in photographing events and other gatherings where the photographer has to be responsive to opportunities to create images in an environment where they have little or no control over the subject matter and have to work within fixed time constraints.

This module will provide students with a broad understanding of the subject area, and provide familiarisation with the physical, technical and research resources available in order to provide a sound foundation for future studies to build upon.  The module will, through discussion of examples and completion of practical projects, seek to initiate an understanding and appreciation of multi-picture stories and the strength of the single image, the 'establishing shot' that can summarise a story, as well as the importance of accompanying text.

When speed of transmission to a publication is of prime importance, such as in the case of getting coverage of an event to meet tight Newspaper/magazine print deadlines, optimal digital image capture and electronic transmission are very important. This requirement has meant that the press photographer and photojournalists were amongst the first to really need to efficiently use digital cameras in their professional life.  The module is intended to cover the origination of images through digital cameras, and subsequent dissemination of the images.

Mistrust of the truth of still photographs has been placed at the door of the digital image with its ability to be easily manipulated; the ethical and practical issues that this raises for photojournalists and publishers will be considered here, as will key legal issues such as copyright.

1)    Demonstrate a broad understanding of photojournalism and documentary photography practices including historic, technical and cultural influences.

2)    Demonstrate a broad understanding and knowledge of debates around issues of bias and objectivity.

3)    Demonstrates awareness of ethical issues and legal constraints relevant to working as a Photojournalist or Documentary Photographer and be able to discuss these in relation to personal beliefs and values.

4)    Demonstrate understanding of basic technology and principles utilised in digital image capture, manipulation and reproduction.

5)         Understand the importance of effective planning and that skills and knowledge should be developed in an integrated and holistic manner; show they are capable of employing a range of skills within limited time constraints and under pressure to meet fixed deadlines.

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