SUNY Oswego (ART 243) Digital Photo 1 Tyler Hall Rm 216
Paul Pearce pearce@oswego.edu (224 Tyler Ext. 3239)
photo@properproof.com
Website: www.properproof.com
E-mail will be used for communication in this class.
You are responsible for checking your email and the website for information and updates.

This class is a photography class, it will emphasize the capturing of images with the camera, not manipulating them with the computer. We will cover and use basic photo editing, web albums, animations, pdf and other presentation formats in the computer.

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 can’t 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 and talk 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.
Students will provide their own camera, tripod, media card, batteries and backup media. They will learn about different camera types and will be assisted in acquiring new equipment if necessary.
Students will create work in and out of class related to technical and aesthetic exercises- these will be evaluated for the final grade.
Students will demonstrate their mastery of photography with final collections of work assembled in a simple portfolios (grouping) for evaluation.
We will use class critiques and on-line forms to share ideas and evaluate reactions to each other’s work and multimedia presentations.
Exercises/assignments:
• Technical- lighting, exposure, color, motion, focus, depth of field, etc.
• Aesthetic- still life, landscapes, people.
Projects:
1) Students will do research and create original work and a written report reflecting an established artists that inspires them. The work will be presented in a timed photo presentation.
2) A presentation (virtual art show) of work containing a coherent body of images demonstrating technical and aesthetic skills. This collection will be connected by a common theme, defined by an artist statement.

 

Equipment requirements:
• Digital camera that can adjust the shutter speed and the lens aperture (f/stop).
• Support accessories: extra battery, battery charger, memory card for at least 200 images.
• Backup storage - flash memory drive or external hard drive
• Tripod (full size or table top)
• Portable lamp (clamp light with fluorescent 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 doesn’t 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.
Each criterion is measured on a scale of 1-4. (4= excellent; 3=good; 2=average; 1=poor; 0=unsatisfactory)
Final Grades:
Exercise assignments 30%, Project Grades 55%, Effort and participation 15%

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.

Students with Disabilities: If you have a disabling condition that may interfere with your ability to successfully complete this course, please contact Office of Disabled Student Services, Campus Center, Phone: (315) 312-3358, Email: dss@oswego.edu. It is up to the student to identify, if necessary, to the instructor as having a registered disability.

Student Behavioral Code: All forms of misconduct in the classroom as defined by the provisions in the Student Handbook may result in disciplinary action in the form of one or more sanctions listed in Section 44. When misconduct occurs, the student will meet with the instructor and receive a letter documenting the misconduct and actions agreed upon by both parties, including a warning that further misconduct may cause more severe disciplinary action from the Office of Judicial Affairs. In addition to guides set forth in the Student Handbook, do not operate equipment, use tools or materials you have not been instructed in.

Attendance: Attendance and punctuality are mandatory. You can’t 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 an out-of-class notification from the Student Advisement Center (142 Campus Center).
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.

H1N1 Flu Information:
Practice Common-sense Hygiene (wash hands with soap and water, clean rooms and offices, cover mouth and noses, stay home if you don’t feel well). Fever and other flu symptoms means STAY HOME.