Assignment 1: Introduction and Equipment
Greetings Photographers,
In this course, you will be presented with scenario-based situations, that will map out all of your assignments. By assuming the role of the photographer in these scenarios, you will strive to improve on your technical skills as they relate both to your camera and to capture light. New photographs will be taken each week to work toward your final project, which will consist mainly of your 10 strongest images and a written statement. Collectively, you and your peers will submit the course project, which is an exhibition proposal for a photography gallery titled, The Power of Light.
Throughout the next six weeks, you will be given two assignments per week. These assignments may focus on the technical aspects of taking pictures and/or the creative aspects, however at the base of all of your assignments will be light. You will learn how to work with natural lighting as well as artificial lighting.
I, as your instructor, will assume the role of your "technical advisor" and act as a "curator" for the group exhibition (final project). This group exhibition will be presented in the Discussion Area of your W6 Assignment 1.
I am excited to work with you throughout this term!
-The Curator (AKA your Instructor)
Assignment Overview
For your first assignment, you will get to know your classmates and introduce yourself to the Instructor/Curator. This assignment is technical in the sense that you will be providing a clear photograph and an inventory list of all of your required gear along with screenshots of your required software and online textbook. This assignment is also creative in the sense that you will write a thoughtful and detailed essay.
Assignment Description
Prior to starting, it is also a good idea to get to know your instructor by reading their autobiography posted in the Discussion Area.
Afterwards, write a 250-word essay discussing the following topics:
- Your profession or area of study
- Your level of familiarity with the field of photography
- Any previous technical and creative experience with natural and artificial lighting
- Any previous experience with exposure
- Your academic or professional strengths
- Your views on how lighting can improve your existing photography
- Provide a detailed inventory list of your equipment
- Your expectations from this course
Post your essay directly into the W1A1 Discussion Thread. Always use constructive language, even in criticism, to work toward the goal of positive progress. Support your statements with appropriate references, wherever possible or required. Follow current MLA writing guidelines for style, spelling, grammar, and citation of sources.
Next, post between 3-9 photographs that you have taken (vs. one found online) of the lighting kit and all of your other required items —particularly the handheld light meter— that you plan to use in the course. When you take this photo, be sure to have your gear laid out clearly –each item should be identifiable.
- Combine all of your photos into a contact sheet using the 3x3 option with 9 images per page; 300ppi (more information on how to create a contact sheet can be found in the "Questions for the Professor" section). Example Below:
- Save your contact sheet as a PDF and label it: "PHOA113_W1A1_LastName_FirstName_Gear.PDF"
Finally, take screenshots of your required software & your textbook. Incorporate all screenshots into one PDF titled:
"PHOA113_W1A1_LastName_FirstName_software_textbook.PDF"
Deliverable Specifications: due on Week 1, Day 1
- 250-word Essay Discussing All Topics Noted in Assignment
- Photograph(s) clearly displaying all required equipment
By Week 1, Day 4, comment on two of your peers' introductions. You may ask questions or respond to the overall experience.
| Assignment 1 Grading Criteria |
Maximum Points
|
| Provided a thoughtful and detailed autobiography covering all topics noted in assignment's directions; submitted a photograph of lighting kit, handheld light meter, and all of the required items noted in the school's Course Catalog. |
12
|
| Provided thoughtful, detailed peer discussion and follow-ups. |
3
|
| Total: |
15
|
For assistance with any problems you may have when completing this assignment—OR—to offer your assistance to classmates, please use the Problems and Solutions Discussion area located through the left side navigation link. |