Photography and Imaging (PHTI-GT)

Many photographers who have been utilizing digital cameras are turning (and returning) to traditional, silver-based film and papers. This intensive course is designed to introduce and explore the practical and creative applications of analog photography. All fundamental analog camera applications will be covered, including 35mm and 120mm medium roll-film formats as well as the larger 4x5 view camera systems, utilizing sheet film. Attention will be given to the special character and unique possibilities of each of these format categories, from the responsive immediacy of 35mm to the high-resolution and perspective control of view camera options. Students will learn essential composition and optical principles and metering techniques. Supported by a comprehensive lab facility, students will learn film processing and archival projection print enlarging methods as well as the basics of print finishing and presentation. Classes will incorporate slide lectures of important historical and contemporary imagery, hands-on studio and laboratory demonstrations, critiques of student work and field trips. For those who may wish to combine analog image capture with digital printing alternatives, negative scanning fundamentals will be introduced at the conclusion of the course. There is a lab fee charged for this course.

This class teaches lighting as a series of the most common lighting problems encountered in professional photography and cinematography. The course philosophy is that the most complex and difficult lighting problems are really just combinations of small, easily resolved, problems. Starting with basic three-point lighting for portraiture using simple continuous source lighting, the course will progress quickly to extremely complex set ups using electronic flash as well as lighting for the new generation of hybrid dslr’s (video/still camera) as it moves through multiple environments. Subjects covered include: Lighting for portraits, still life, fashion, interiors, documentary, and exterior location lighting using battery powered flash. Location scouting and planning according to location limitations. Color temperature and color control. Light shaping and control. Students will learn how to use: Digital SLR’s, medium format cameras, Leaf Aptus electronic capture, direct tethered capture using Adobe Lightroom, continuous lighting, electronic flash, color temperature meters and custom white balance profiles as well as the basics of video/sound capture. Lighting equipment is provided. There is a lab fee charged for this course.

Prerequisite: Photography & Imaging: Analog and Digital. Please see the Notes section below. Many artists turn to 4x5 and 8x10 large-format cameras for the creative control that view cameras afford, as well as for the high resolution and potentially large scale of the resulting prints. This course introduces the special characteristics of large format photography, including perspective control, creative approaches to selective focus and metering strategies facilitated by single negative processing. The exposure and development methods known as the Zone System will also be considered. Because large format work is physically demanding and relatively slow, this is also an opportunity to work more deliberately and, in some respects, more consciously. It may also inform one’s understanding of the methods and approaches of 19th and early 20th Century artists. The high resolution of large format description can often produce a compelling image of relatively static subject matter that might not otherwise succeed if recorded in smaller formats. Surfaces and details evoke a more “complete”, or even tactile appreciation of some subjects. Following a series of practical exercises during the first half of the course, students are expected to develop an appropriate project on which to concentrate and apply their evolving skills in the production of an original and integrated body of work. Technical material covered includes different large format camera types and applications, lenses and optics, metering, filters, special B&W developers, large format printing and scanning for digital output. Early historical processes are introduced, current exhibitions of artists and photographers in New York are discussed and field trips are arranged. A variety of cameras, lenses and tripods are available for student use.

This is a multi-topic course. Please see the Notes section below for more information.

This is a multi-topic course. Please see the notes below for more information.

Prerequisites: Photojournalism I or the equivalent experience Beginning photojournalists develop a project, and acquire the practical knowledge to enter the profession. Students will work with a director of photography to develop a long-term project with an eye-toward publication (print, blog, self-published). Students will develop an idea; consider similar projects/competition; research appropriate publications/outlets for their work; craft a pitch; present to editors; explore alternative modes of production and distribution; and learn about practical business considerations (representation, rights, etc). Students should come to the first meeting with a one-page project proposal in hand. There is a lab fee charged for this course.

Prerequisite: Basic computer experience. This three-week course focusing on Photoshop explores the possibilities for image manipulation and the steps involved in learning to translate traditional darkroom skills into digital artwork and montage. Starting from the empty canvas, we look at all the basic elements of Photoshop, including selection tools, text, scale, retouching, and collage. Introducing the principles of layers and masks we will look at creating composite images from photographic images and web sources. We also cover scanning negatives and flat artwork as well as color adjustment using levels and curves. We look at all aspects of image creation and enhancement with equal importance given to the aesthetic effect and technical ease. By working on a creative project, students use the software to convey their ideas in this digital environment. Class time is divided between work-in-progress sessions, critiques, and lectures. Because of the holiday, that session will be rescheduled sometime during the three weeks of class. This course is charged a lab fee.