ART 1030 - Introduction to Photography

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 1 Lab 4
Course Description: This course is designed as an exploration of digital photography as a means of visual communication and creative expression. Topics include an introduction to the basics of digital cameras and digital imaging software. Projects address a range of design, aesthetic, and conceptual issues fundamental to the art of photography. Strong emphasis is on the development of both a technical foundation and a critical awareness of the medium as a creative tool. Students will need access to a smartphone or entry level digital camera. The Art department has a limited supply of cameras for student check out. Students who are ART Transfer Pathway AFA majors should enroll in ART 1031, or ART 2031.
MnTC Goals
6 Humanities/Fine Arts

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Major Content

1. Introduction of photography as a creative tool
   1. Formal elements specific to the medium of photography
   2. Recreations of iconic images
   3. Contemporary takes on traditional subjects: people, places, and objects
   4. Final group project (sequencing and editing collaborative zine)

2. Technical Basics

   a. File types and sizes
   b. Image adjustments using editing software
   c. Uploading, exporting, and sharing images via online platforms

3. Contemporary Issues/Criticism 
   a. Visual literacy- how to read photographs
   b. Image use and ownership in the digital realm
   c. Ethics of digital manipulation
   d. Collaboration
   e. Writing assignment
   f. Critique

 
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Create images utilizing digital photographic processes.
2. Demonstrate effective solutions to creative assignments applying knowledge of the materials, research of contemporary issues in art making, and creative problem-solving skills.
3. Demonstrate basic competence with image editing software.
4. Articulate a thoughtful, informed analysis when critiquing artworks, utilizing terms common to art.
5. Demonstrate principles of design and composition in the creation of photographic images.
6. Demonstrate craftsmanship and effective presentation methods in their creative work.
7. Identify various exemplary works of contemporary art as well as works of historical significance.

 
Competency 1 (1-6)
06. 01. Demonstrate awareness of the scope and variety of works in the arts and humanities.
06. 02. Understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within an historical and social context.
06. 03. Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.
06. 04. Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.
06. 05. Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.

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