Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Completion of PHOT 60A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 90 (36 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Description: Exploration of alternative photographic processes, many of which were first developed in the 19th century and are known for producing expressive prints with a unique look. Merging of digital technology and non-traditional printing materials explored. Processes may include: cyanotype, salt printing, kallitype, anthotype, lumen, hand-coated silver emulsion, and inkjet transfers. (CSU)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Create a portfolio of photographs utilizing a variety of alternative photographic processes.
  • CSLO #2: Prepare chemistry, negatives and substrates used in alternative photographic processes.
  • CSLO #3: Critique final images based on creativity, aesthetics and the relationship between the technique and the subject matter.

Effective Term

Fall 2018

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

90

Outside of Class Hours

72

Total Student Learning Hours

162

Course Objectives

Lecture Objectives:
1. Describe the progression of historical processes and early practitioners;
2. Discuss the relationship between technique and content both historically and in contemporary photography;
3. Identify the differences between silver and non-silver processes;
4. Compare inkjet transfer techniques;
5. Select appropriate toning technique to the process being used and visual impact desired;
6. Outline the steps in producing an enlarged negative;
7. Generate a list of materials needed for the process being explored;
8. Analyze and correct problems with the production cycle to improve final output and efficiency.
Laboratory Objectives:
1. Produce silver-halide images in a non-traditional manner;
2. Assess the visual impact of prints produced from several different non-silver processes;
3. Create final images by combining digital and traditional techniques utilizing transfer methods;
4. Improve the visual impact of an image by toning, distressing or altering its color;
5. Produce enlarged negatives in preparation for contact printing;
6. Demonstrate safe handling of materials and safety precautions when working on projects; and
7. Create final portfolio of alternative process images.

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 specific hazards and safe handling of chemicals used in alternative processes. Standard grading.
          • Projects
            • Example: A final portfolio of 12-15 alternative process prints will be created. Evaluation will be based on a grading rubric provided to students. Major components of the rubric would include print quality, image selection, appropriateness of process considering the image, composition, and originality.
          • Reports
            • Example: Students will research a modern practitioner of alternative processes and write a summary examination of their work including visual examples. Of particular importance will be the relationship between alternative process technique and visual content. An outline of expected points to be covered will be included in a rubric provided to the student.
          • Skill Demonstrations
            • Example: Based upon lectures, readings and in-class demonstrations, students will demonstrate the proper method to create an inkjet transfer print. The components of the grade and their weight will be provided to the students as part of a grading rubric.

          Repeatable

          No

          Methods of Instruction

          • Laboratory
          • Lecture/Discussion

          Lab:

          1. During the lab portion of the course instructor will demonstrate how to produce lumen prints, which was discussed during the previous lecture. After the demonstration, students will use the materials they gathered for use during the lab and produce a variety of lumen prints. Instructor will supervise, assist, clarify and help students trouble shoot printing problems as they arise.

          Lecture:

          1. Instructor will lecture on the differences between silver and non-silver processes including the light sensitive component in each and the aesthetic differences. Instructor will show actual examples of the different process and facilitate a discussion with the students as they identify the visual differences associated with each process. This lecture and discussion will precede the actual production of images during lab time.

          Typical Out of Class Assignments

          Reading Assignments

          1. Read the chapter on the cyanotype process and its variations. Come prepared to discuss the processing variations advantages and disadvantages. 2. Read the article handed out in class on papers used with hand applied emulsions and prepare a list of sources where these papers may be purchased.

          Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

          1. Demonstrate the proper technique for preparing a paper for Salt printing. 2. Prepare a written report on a contemporary artist who works with one or more alternative processes.

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

          Student will complete a final portfolio of 12-15 alternative process prints that demonstrates their best work from the various alternative processes utilized in class.

          Required Materials

          • The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes
            • Author: Christopher James
            • Publisher: Delmar Cengage Learning
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 3rd
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Alternative Photographic Processes: Crafting Handmade Images
            • Author: Brady Wilks
            • Publisher: Focal Press
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Experimental Photography: A Handbook of Techniques
            • Author: Antonini, Minniti, Gomez & Lungarella
            • Publisher: Thames & Hudson
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition: 1st
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER:
          • Hacking the Digital Print
            • Author: Lhotka
            • Publisher: New Riders
            • 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.

          Alternative process substrates, inkjet transparency and inkjet transfer media.