Photography

Diana Normanton

Elective class open to all students

This is an introductory course in black and white photography. Using a 35 mm camera, students will learn the basics of film exposure; film selection; aperture; shutter speed; metering; and lighting. Students learn how to prepare the chemistry to develop their own film and print black and white photographs. They will learn basic darkroom procedures, density control, contrast control, archival processing, and print presentation. In addition to the technical aspects of black and white photography, assignments will encourage the students to explore the artistic elements of photography, composition, framing, light, tone and texture, gesture and the moment, allowing the students to develop their own personal response to the visual world. Students will be exposed to various photographers' work, through books and field trips to galleries and museums. A 35 mm manual camera is recommended.

Advanced photography explores more advanced darkroom techniques and alternative photography. Students will learn how different papers, developers, toning, and additive chemistry can help them realize their vision of the image. Alternative processes such as infrared film, cyanotype, applied emulsions, plastic camera, and hand coloring will be introduced. Assignments will focus on expanding each student's style and vision and on creating a cohesive body of work, culminating in a group show at the end of the year.