PHOTO 1

Introduction to Photography

Hartnell College

Instructor: Siobhan Arnold

siobhan_arnold@csumb.edu

Fall 2006

Thursday 6:00-8:50 pm , VAF 108

Office hours by appointment

http://www.hartnell.edu/faculty/sarnold/

COURSE CONTENT:

This is a beginning photography class designed to introduce you to the basic concepts and techniques used in photographic image making processes. No prior experience in photography is expected of you. You will be introduced to the techniques and application of the photographic process as well as composition, theory, and history of photography. This course provides the basis for continued study in traditional photography, digital processes, video and filmmaking.

Instruction for this course will include lectures, slide shows, demonstrations and class discussion and critique.

TEXT:

PHOTOGRAPHY, London and Upton

Available in the campus bookstore. Used copies may also be available from students.

MATERIALS:

• 35mm SLR camera with manual focus and exposure controls.
• 35mm slide film. Slide film always has the term “chrome” in the name of the film (ektachrome, fujichrome, etc.). You will need 3-5 rolls of film. I will specify the type with each assignment. Please do not purchase your film until I have done my lecture on types of film. Most stores do not let you return film!
• 35mm slide sleeves – pack of 10.

ASSIGNMENTS

You will have 10 photographic assignments over the course of the semester. A list of assignments will be distributed in class and is available on the course website (http://www.hartnell.edu/faculty/sarnold/). All assignments turned in late will be marked down at my discretion. All assignments may be resubmitted to improve your grade. See the course schedule for due dates, etc.

ATTENDANCE

You are required to attend this course. Since this is three hour weekly class, we operate on a very escalated schedule which means that if you miss one class, you will have missed a great deal of information. Please contact me if you are having a problem and will miss a class due to unforeseen circumstances or illness. Unexcused absences will adversely affect your grade.

GRADING

Your grade will be determined using totals from assignments, a midterm, and a final and will be given in the form of letter grades. The breakdown is as follows:

Assignments (10) 50%

Midterm (1) 20%

Final (1) 30%

Remember that regular attendance is expected, and poor attendance will be calculated into your overall grade. Extra Credit opportunities are available as well.

EVALUATING PHOTOGRAPHS

The first three assignments will be big learning experiences for most of you and I will grade them with the understanding that you are beginners! After that, there are certain criteria that I will use to evaluate your photographs with which you should all become quite familiar. These standards are as follows:

• Correct Exposure – as related to subject matter, content of image.
• Focus Control – also as related to subject matter, content and assignment.
• Composition – the use of a thoughtful, well planned arrangement of space within your image.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

The following are your personal responsibilities as students in this class and will lead to a rewarding learning experience:

1. Read the assigned portions of the text.

2. Take notes in class.

3. Complete all assignments.

4. Attend class and show up on time.

5. Acquire your supplies and books in a timely manner.

6. Practice with your camera outside of class.

Ask for help!! Don’t wait until further into the semester if you are having difficulty. Get help as you need it!