In this 20 week course, students will learn how to properly use a digital camera to take beautiful photographs. This course is designed to guide students in developing the basic technical skills and creative ideas involved in digital photography. Students will learn the functions of a standard digital camera as well as use Adobe Photoshop for darkroom effects and as a creative tool. It is helpful, but not mandatory to have a digital camera for this class. The Final Project will be a published Photo Blog which will also serve as a portfolio.
Expectations
- Bring something to write with and your folder everyday
- Arrive to class on time, using your own time for locker and lav
- Show respect for others and their work (hands off)
- Stay on task and do not distract others
- Use all equipment, tools and materials responsibly
- Maintain a high attendance rate
- Stay in the classroom and away from the door for the entire period
- Keep a positive attitude and put forth your best effort at all times
- Adhere to the WCS Computer Rules AT ALL TIMES – there will be a zero tolerance policy for breaking those rules and any behavior that could jeopardize the safety of yourself, others in the classroom or the equipment. Check your e-mail, download music, play games and surf the web at home – NEVER during class time – even if your project is “done”.
Materials
- Something to write with (everyday)
- Folder (everyday)
- CD-Rs for storage of projects (they are optional until June when one is required for burning your portfolio)
- OPTIONAL BUT HIGHLY SUGGESTED: Digital camera to use off school grounds (there are some available to borrow if you do not have one)
- OPTIONAL BUT HIGHLY SUGGESTED: USB storage
Grading
Projects will always have clearly defined criteria and a final due date, and there will always be a class critique on the day a project is due during which you will be involved in self and peer evaluations. Everyday that a project is late results in a drop of a letter grade, and a project will not be accepted at all after 1 week past the due date. 10% of this grade is based on maintaining your Photo Blog.
- 15% Folder/Quizzes/Presentations
There are very few quizzes, but they will always be announced in advance. Your folder will contain all important notes, sketches - stay organized. Presentations will be required periodically.
Class Participation refers to your overall conduct in the class – meeting the expectations outlined on this sheet, peer and adult relations, attitude, cooperation, motivation, effort, maturity and respect.