Catalog Description

Advisory: Completion of PHOT 60A or 78 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 13 (7 lecture, 6 activity) per .5 unit
Description: Exploration of color nature photography. Topics include subject selection, the impact and use of color, capturing accurate vs. altered color, equipment, composition, metering and overcoming the challenges of location and weather. Students must furnish digital storage media. (CSU)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Create a portfolio of images taken in the natural world utilizing a variety of color relationships, such as: complementary, monochromatic, analogous and triad.
  • CSLO #2: Evaluate lighting and subject and then utilize camera controls to achieve proper color balance, framing, depth of field and blurring/freezing of motion.
  • CSLO #3: Critique color images from a historical and contemporary perspective.

Effective Term

Fall 2018

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

13-78

Outside of Class Hours

17-102

Total Student Learning Hours

30-180

Course Objectives

Lecture Objectives:
1. identify noted color photographers working in the natural world;
2. discuss the impact of color on the mood of the photograph;
3. compare the results of utilizing custom white balance vs. preset white balance;
4. evaluate individual images based upon content, composition and overall visual impact;
5. describe the impact of aperture selection on depth of field;
Activity Objectives:
6. create images using both complementary colors and monochromatic color;
7. utilize appropriate white balance method based on lighting conditions;
8. construct images with visual impact using color and composition;
9. evaluate lighting to determine proper exposure technique;
10. determine proper lens focal length for the visual effect desired; and
11. create final portfolio of photographs taken in the natural world with emphasis on design elements and use of color.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
      • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
        • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

          Articulation Information

          • CSU Transferable

          Methods of Evaluation

          • Classroom Discussions
            • Example: Classroom peer critiques (discussions) are an integral part of deepening student understanding of how others react to their images and to gain insight into how they can improve their work. Students are evaluated on participation, their ability to actively engage in the discussion and to provide and receive valuable feedback from their peers.
          • Projects
            • Example: A portfolio of digital photographs presented as a digital slide show or in print will be created from the field session(s). Grading will be based upon a rubric provided to students at the beginning of the class. Components of this rubric will include, their success in terms of use of color, composition, visual impact, consistency of style, creativity, craftsmanship and presentation.
          • Reports
            • Example: Students will write a report on an assigned nature photographer noted for their use of color and will give an oral presentation to the class supported by visual examples. Grading will be based on a rubric provided to the students at the beginning of the course.

          Repeatable

          No

          Methods of Instruction

          • Activity
          • Lecture/Discussion

          Activity:

          1. While in the field instructor will work closely with students answering questions, providing individualized instruction, assisting with problem solving, and providing feedback on the images they are capturing. Students will be actively photographing the natural world and applying the information provided during lecture and readings required outside of class time.

          Lecture:

          1. Instructor will prepare students for field studies by lecturing on the region to be photographed, the impact of color in photography, preparations for the experience and application of relevant photographic techniques to the area being explored. Instructor will prepare handouts and provide web resources for further study outside of class that will round out the information on color photography and the region. Students will take notes, ask clarifying questions and respond to instructor questions.

          Typical Out of Class Assignments

          Reading Assignments

          1. Read the handouts and web-based resources on complementary, analogous and monochromatic color. Be prepared to use these concepts while in the field photographing. 2. Read the chapter (or handout) on equipment selection for nature photography. Prepare a list, assemble and pack these items for the field session(s).

          Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

          1. Write a 2-3 page paper reflecting on the photographs created during the field session noting what was learned and where improvements could be made in the future. 2. Photograph a variety of scenes utilizing both custom white balance, auto white balance and a white balance preset. Compare the results in preparation for the field session.

          Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

          1. Create a portfolio of color nature photographs and prepare them for presentation during the final critique.

          Required Materials

          • The New Art of Photographing Nature: An Updated Guide to Composing Stunning Images of Animals, Nature, and Landscapes
            • Author: Art Wolfe
            • Publisher: Amphoto Books
            • Publication Date: 2013
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Exploring Color Photography: From Film to Pixels
            • Author: Robert Hirsch
            • Publisher: Focal Press
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 6th
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • John Shaw's Guide to Digital Nature Photography
            • Author: Shaw
            • Publisher: Amphora Books
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • The Art, Science, and Craft of Great Landscape Photography
            • Author: Randall
            • Publisher: Rocky Nook
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:

          Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

          Student must provide digital storage media. Digital prints may be required depending on presentation format.