Course Resources Archive

This module looks at the realist vein of photography and its role in creating some of the most memorable images of the twentieth century. Documentary and photojournalism has extended from newspapers into the gallery and the artists' monograph. It is envisaged that the outcome will be a body of practical photographic work, the presentation of which is informed by research and theoretical debate.

What is it to photograph the Real? In the words of photographer, Philip-Lorca diCorcia, it is simply an ambition to record ‘that which was never really hidden, but rarely is noticed.’             

The first photography show at Tate Modern was called Cruel and Tender. The content of the show, drawn from a wide variety of photographers, was united by an approach that could be described as realist, aiming to avoid nostalgia, romanticism, or sentimentality in favour of clear-eyed (social) observation. It emphasised the breadth of interpretation of the documentary and portrait photograph but also raised questions as to how some of the images, originally intended to communicate immediate concerns and issues, have, with time, been reclassified as art.  The realist approach aimed at gallery and publication provides the core for this module.

Students will be required to complete a practical project based on an agreed approach and agreed assessable outcome(s) pertaining to this module. Students will engage in individual or collaborative practices, and consider the potential of multi-media or cross-media presentation of photographic work. There is an emphasis upon considered process as much as final product and the relationship of concept, technique, content and messages communicated. Through practical exploration students address the way in which personal meaning can be informed and stimulated by differing conceptual and technical strategies for dissemination of photographic work.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1) Demonstrate knowledge and a critical understanding of debates around issues of bias, objectivity and representation, and in order to frame appropriate questions to identify a solutions to a problem, be able to critically evaluate the ethical responsibilities and legal constraints associated with working in the photography and media industries.

2)        Demonstrate mastery and innovation in the use of photographic equipment, including the appropriate use and selection of new technologies alongside traditional skills and production methodologies.

3)        Analyse the social and/or political context in which photojournalists and documentary photographers operate. 

4)        Critically examine a discipline related theory, idea, hypothesis or problem and formulate independent judgments and articulate reasoned arguments through reflection, review and evaluation; effectively interrogate and communicate ideas, principles and theories by visual, written and oral means.

5)         Effectively plan to develop strategies towards achieving personal, academic and career goals, manage workloads to meet deadlines, evaluate and reflect upon knowledge and skills in order to become an independent learner, and develop a range of transferable skills to enhance ‘employability’.

Structured body of photography based work, equivalent to 8,000 words

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