PHO1101

Photomedia 1

3 points - One 1-hour lecture, one 1-hour studio and 4 independent study hours per week - First semester - Caulfield and Gippsland - Prerequisites: None

Objectives On successful completion of this unit students should have a basic practical and critical understanding of photography and its links with other media; have a minimum level of competence and understanding of the operations associated with camera-based photography including the principles of photographic 'seeing' and technical principles of image production (ie use of light sensitive materials, exposure); have a basic understanding of photography as a visual language through working with photographic imagery as expressive, narrative and representational forms; have the foundation necessary to undertake further units in photomedia with a view towards either specialisation or application of the media within other studio disciplines.

Synopsis Students are provided with the opportunity to produce and creatively apply photographic imagery, while developing confidence and skills in the use of a 35mm camera. This unit emphasises the creative and expressive dimensions of the medium, technical aspects are recognised as a means to an end. Students work through a series of thematic projects which involve them in the creative processes of conceiving, producing and editing photographic imagery using appropriate photographic materials ie colour transparency films. A major project offers students the opportunity to approach the medium through a self-initiated thematic folio. Lectures and tutorials encourage students to develop an understanding of the relationship and relevance of their photo-graphic work to contemporary practice and aesthetics in photography, art and design.

Assessment Assigned projects: 80% - Journal: 20%

Recommended texts

Barthes R Image, music, text Hill and Wang, 1997
Berger J Another way of telling Writers and Readers, 1982
Berger J About looking Pantheon, 1980
Berger J Ways of seeing Penguin, 1984
Gassan A and Meek A J Exploring black and white photography 2nd edn, 1989
Langford M Micheal Langford's 35mm handbook Penguin, 1989
Sontag S On photography Penguin, 1980

Back to the 1999 Art and Design Handbook