Class Objectives:
To enhance the way
we look at the world around us
To learn to use photography to create art in two dimensions.
To become aware of the affects of light and shadow.
To empower each photographer to develop a personal style and
visual form of expression.
To use camera controls to go beyond the snapshot, creating images
that our eye cant see.
To develop awareness of the use and effect of photographic images
in our society.
Going beyond the pretty picture.
To become familiar with the basic history of creating images
through photography.
To learn to examine, interpret talk and write about photographs
and to appreciate the photo work of others.
To
acquire the knowledge and skills to create photographs through three
parallel paths of understanding:
1] Processes: camera, computer
2] Aesthetics: exerting artistic control, refining your eye;
lighting, point of view
3] Meaning: is there substance to this image, does it connect
with the viewer, on what level?
Class will consist
of demonstrations and discussions followed by practical exercises and
assignments.
There will be lab sessions during class hours where students work independently
with instructor oversight.
Students will also need to spend out-of-class time to shoot photographs.
Students are encouraged to shoot many photographs and use their camera
as much as possible.
We will explore photographers and photographic trends through videos
and on-line research followed by feedback forms and discussions
Students are required to use their camera every week for exercises,
assignments or personal expression. Weekly sharing sessions with the
class are an opportunity for peer feedback.
Students will
create work in and out of class related to technical and aesthetic exercises-
these will be evaluated for the final grade.
We will use class critiques and on-line forms to share ideas and evaluate
reactions to each others work and multimedia presentations.

Equipment requirements:
Digital camera (not smart phone) A camera that can adjust
the shutter speed, the lens aperture (f/stop) and manual focus is recommended.
(Photo majors should have a camera with these features.)
Support accessories: extra battery, battery charger, memory
card for at least 200 images, backup memory card.
Backup storage - external hard drive or flash memory.
Tripod
Portable lamp (clamp light with fluorescent or LED bulb or equivalent)
Grading:
Work will be graded on: individual progress and growth throughout the
semester, originality, craftsmanship, technique, level of challenge
and concept. Effort, class participation, and , especially, your sense
of exploration; that is, your willingness to take risks in the process
of creating art
The typical A student is a responsible and active learner
who doesnt take shortcuts. He or she will follow all steps in
the creative process, not opting for an easy out when the project becomes
difficult; will hand work in on time; will participate fully in class;
will ask questions; will do extra work for the sheer pleasure and need
to learn. As a result, his/her work will show considerable growth beyond
previous technical, expressive and conceptual capabilities.
University Grading Policy- The grading policy is in accordance
with the University grading policy, based on: 1. Successful completion
of project requirements 2. Quality of production 3. Conceptual development
of art work 4. Participation in critiques and discussions.
Assignments are evaluated according to the following criteria:
1. Technical 2. Formal 3. Assignment goal 4. Effort/Challenge/Creativity
Class Participation/Presentation will be factored into your grade. Critique
attendance is mandatory.
Each criterion is measured on a scale of 1-4.
(4= excellent; 3=good; 2=average; 1=poor; 0=unsatisfactory)
Final Grades:
Exercises/assignments 50%, 2 Quizes 20%, Reviews - research - forms
10% Portfolio
20%
If you miss a
critique or turn in an assignment late your grade will be reduced by
one letter grade.
Assignments are not accepted if more than two weeks late.
You may re-do and assignment within one week for re-evaluation (only
if initially turned in on time)
A/A- Excellent.
Demonstrates a full understanding of techniques, concepts, and theories
covered in class; exceeds class expectations, self-motivated and challenged;
attends and participates in classes regularly. Submits new work (not
assignment submissions) for the final portfolio.
B+/B/B- Good. Have completed the assignment well and attended classes
and critiques.
C+/C/C- Average. Have completed the assignments, but without much effort
and challenge.
D+/D/ Poor. If you are an art major, you will have to repeat this class
with a D grade.
F Failing. Not met the requirements of the class.
College Policy
on Intellectual Integrity: Intellectual integrity on the part of
all students is basic to individual growth and development through college
course-work. When academic dishonesty occurs, the teaching/learning
climate is seriously undermined and student growth and development are
impeded. For these reasons, any form of intellectual dishonesty is a
serious concern and is therefore prohibited. The full intellectual integrity
policy can found at:
http://www.oswego.edu/administration/registrar/policy_text.html#cpii.
Academic Honesty Policy: Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Make
sure you know what plagiarism is and how to avoid it. Any student who
turns in plagiarized work will fail the course. A description of plagiarism
and other forms of academic dishonesty are to be found at www.cazenovia.edu.
Go to Academics and click on Academic Policies.
Special Needs:
Special needs students who require accommodations in classroom or
outside work or test taking procedures should notify the Office of Special
Services. Communicate with the instructor as soon as possible to put
these accommodations in place in and out of the classroom.
Attendance: Attendance and punctuality are mandatory. You cant
learn if you are not here! If you must be absent contact the instructor
as soon as possible. You are expected to make up any work you miss.
Absence due to illness or hardship will be considered
unexcused unless I am provided a written medical document.
Two late arrivals count as an absence. Coming unprepared to work
counts as an absence. One or two missed classes do not affect your grade.
These absences should be reserved for any time you have a conflict (work
or travel etc.) or are not well enough to attend. Each absence beyond
two will lower your final by one letter grade step (B to B-). After
5 absences you cannot successfully complete the class and should withdraw
or risk failing. You must make up work that was done in any
class you miss. If you miss a video presentation, you must make arrangements
to view it on your time and write up a review or analysis.
Cell
phone usage and text messaging during class is absolutely prohibited,
as is personal use of laptops or other electronic devices. Before class
you must turn your cell phones off. If you must have your cell phone
available due to a crisis situation, you must notify the instructor
before the start of class. At the discretion of the instructor, you
may be permitted to leave your phone on "vibrate" mode. Use
of text messaging during class will result in dismissal from class that
day, and will be considered an unauthorized absence.