Exploring digital photography-from camera to computer 11wks

You will be introduced to the basic skills and knowledge needed to take digital photographs and manipulate them on the computer (using Photoshop). Creative practical projects will be set and you will have the opportunity to get feedback on your own photographs and discuss the work of others in the group. Assessment is informal and is based on practical activities. There is no formal certified assessment. You must have your own digital camera with some level of manual control. A digital SLR is preferable but not essential. Basic IT skills are an entry requirement of the course, including saving and creating files/ folders and an awareness of the Windows environment (if in doubt please ring for further advice).

Learner & Entry Requirement: 

You will need your own digital camera (with some degree of manual settings) and possess some IT skills (Windows basics: including opening and saving files to different folders). Using your camera manual, you will need to have familiarised yourself with your own digital equipment, prior to the start of the course.

General & First Session: 

If you already have a digital camera please bring it but do not purchase it specifically for the course until after the first class.  KAE is unable to offer refunds for any materials, equipment or books if the course is subsequently closed.

Course Aim & Objective: 

Introduce you to the skills and knowledge needed for the study of digital photography and its creative potential.

By the end of the course learners should be able to:

• Understand the concepts of digital photography
• Understand the common features of Digital SLR cameras (buttons, dials, menus, digital memory etc)
• Adjust the settings of a digital SLR camera to get the best results
• Understand the basic rules of how to compose a good photograph
• Understand concepts of aperture, shutter speeds, ISO & white balance.
• Transfer pictures from the camera to a PC
• Use the main image editing features and functions of Adobe Photoshop
• Gain knowledge of various printing options (both home and commercial)
• Develop their own backup strategy for safely storing their images

Assesment:

Based on work produced in class.  This involves:

• Successfully undertaking practical digital photographic procedures
• Taking, digitally manipulating photographs
• Verbally demonstrating to tutor your understanding of basic photographic knowledge

• Group discussion and analysis (self/peer assessment)
• Tutor observation
• You will be encouraged to do homework assignments in the form of taking photographs and finding examples of existing photographs to bring to sessions.

We will recognise and record your progress and achievement through attainment of the following course goals:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of digital photography.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the common features of Digital   SLR cameras (buttons, dials, menus, digital memory etc).
• Using your own camera, put into practice the basic rules of how to compose a good photograph.
• Structure a photography workflow process.
• Select and use effectively the main image editing features and functions of Adobe Photoshop.

Progression:  Various related Photography courses at KAE.  Please ask for details at the centre office.

Course Syllabus:  The core skills of Digital Photography and Imaging.  Basic camera-handling skills, to get the most out of your camera, before going on to look at image enhancement and manipulation on the computer (using Photoshop).  Discuss your photographs in the group and identify areas for improvement. Discuss appropriate tools for image storage, cataloguing and editing and discuss and evaluate various printing methods.