Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Completion of PHOT 60A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (36 lecture, 36 activity)
Description: Use of digital cameras for direct capture of photographic images. Emphasis on practical use of the digital camera in real world situations. Creative and technical controls offered by digital cameras, image file management and image optimization. Color management and digital printing. Basic video capture with digital still cameras. (CSU)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Apply digital camera exposure controls to produce technically and aesthetically successful still photographs and videos in a variety of shooting situations.
  • CSLO #2: Evaluate, organize, adjust and prepare digital photographs for final output.
  • CSLO #3: Construct a portfolio of photographs that demonstrate a synthesis of acquired digital camera technique with desired technical and aesthetic goals.

Effective Term

Fall 2018

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

72

Outside of Class Hours

90

Total Student Learning Hours

162

Course Objectives

Lecture Objectives:
1. analyze the trends in, and aesthetic success of current digital photography;
2. examine the advantages and disadvantages of consumer, prosumer and professional digital cameras;
3. describe how a digital sensor captures an image including the factors in their design that impact image quality;
4. compare images captured in the RAW format to those captured in the JPEG format;
5. evaluate the different types of digital printers and the archival permanence of each;
6. utilize digital cameras to capture a variety of photographic subject matter (such as portraits, landscapes, still life, architecture, events and action);
7. compare outdoor photographs created using fill-flash to those using available light only;
8. make a short video utilizing a digital camera designed primarily for stills;
Laboratory/Activity Objectives:
9. utilize file management skills to store and retrieve digital images;
10. evaluate a group of images captured digitally and utilize a ranking system to sort them according to technical quality, assignment criteria and aesthetics;
11. assess and adjust the tonal range and color balance of images captured digitally both locally and globally;
12. employ HDR (high dynamic range) technique to extend the dynamic range of a scene;
13. utilize a color management system from capture to screen to inkjet printer output; and
14. create a digital portfolio of photographs produced during the course of the semester demonstrating skill mastery and visual interest.

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.
          • Objective Examinations
            • Example: A multiple choice exam will be given covering the different types of digital cameras, their distinguishing features and primary uses. Standard grading.
          • Projects
            • Example: A portfolio of photographs presented as a digital slide show will be evaluated for photographic technique, composition, presentation, proper software utilization, visual communication and cohesiveness. The components of the grade and their weight will be provided to the students as part of a grading rubric.
          • Reports
            • Example: Students will research and submit test prints to a variety of digital printers. A written report will be created comparing the print quality, cost, turnaround time and archival permanence of these printers. An outline of expected points to be covered will be included in a rubric provided to students.
          • Skill Demonstrations
            • Example: Based upon lectures, readings and in-class demonstrations, students will demonstrate the proper exposure techniques and software utilization to create HDR (high dynamic range) images. Students will be evaluated on proper exposure, using software to accurately combine the exposure sequence and aesthetic interest of the resulting images based upon a weighted rubric provided to the students.

          Repeatable

          No

          Methods of Instruction

          • Activity
          • Lecture/Discussion
          • Distance Learning

          Activity:

          1. Instructor will discuss and demonstrate a color management system. Students will utilize the color calibration hardware to calibrate their individual monitors and to create an ICC profile for the classroom inkjet printer. When printing assignments, students will color correct images using their calibrated monitors and utilize the custom icc profile to obtain color accurate inkjet prints.

          Lecture:

          1. Instructor will assign chapter and/or handouts on custom white balance and color balancing images. Instructor will then lecture on these topics and demonstrate custom white balance. An instructor led discussion will take place on the application of these techniques to the upcoming architecture assignment. After the assignment has been completed, instructor will lead class in critique of images created by students based upon application of custom white balance and color balancing techniques as well as visual interest and communication.

          Distance Learning

          1. Instructor will create a video or PowerPoint presentation with audio on techniques in architectural photography. Instructor will also provide the appropriate chapter in the textbook or a link to OER on the subject for students to read. Student will seek any necessary clarifications through discussion boards or office hours. Student will then apply this knowledge to create a variety of interior and exterior architectural photographs.

          Typical Out of Class Assignments

          Reading Assignments

          1. Read the chapter on file naming conventions, importing, sorting and ranking and come prepared utilize the techniques described while importing a group of digital images during class. 2. Read the handouts on RAW vs. JPEG file formats and come prepared to discuss what types of situations would be most appropriate for each format.

          Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

          1. Implement a color management system and prepare a written analysis of the level of success and limitations brought about by the output device and the color management system itself. 2. Utilizing the web sites discussed, research and evaluate at least six different online printers and prepare both a written report and an oral/visual presentation on their advantages and disadvantages.

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

          1. Create a digital portfolio of 35-40 images produced during the semester considering the cohesiveness of the images selected, their technical quality, display method, order of presentation and the aesthetic success of the completed body of work.

          Required Materials

          • Complete Digital Photography
            • Author: Ben Long
            • Publisher: Cengage Learning PTR
            • Publication Date: 2014
            • Text Edition: 8th
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC Book for Digital Photographers
            • Author: Scott Kelby
            • Publisher: New Riders
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Lightroom Transformations: Realizing your vision with Adobe Lightroom plus Photoshop
            • Author: Martin Evening
            • Publisher: New Riders
            • Publication Date: 2016
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • A Short Course in Digital Photography
            • Author: London & Stone
            • Publisher: Pearson
            • Publication Date: 2014
            • Text Edition: 3rd
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:

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

          Students must supply digital storage media.