Seeing Photographically

Using the basic functions of the camera, express yourself creatively. Use the lens aperture (f-stop) and shutter speed to create interesting images.  These to two elements of the camera control photographic exposure. Using the built-in camera light meter make sure that you have a proper exposure for each image.  Take your pictures in manual mode with the single-lens reflex camera.

Create a Photographic Plan

Write down the camera settings you think you will need for each picture, detailed below in the directions section.  Include a brief description of what you are going to photograph.  Before you get a camera, show your written plan to the teacher for approval and their recommendations.

Directions

1. Camera Lens as Creative Tool - Using Depth of Field
   • RECOMMENDATION: The first image will be shot with a small f-stop (f1.8) to demonstrate shallow depth of field. The shot will be a portrait placing the individual near the lens (between 2 to 4 feet) and the background at least 10 feet further back.
2. Camera Shutter as Creative Tool - Using Shutter Speed
   • RECOMMENDATION: The second image will be shot with a low shutter speed (below 1/60th of a second). Be sure to use a tripod or brace the camera against a nonmoving object, like a wall or fence. Incorporate a still element and a moving object in the photo.
3. Human Eye as Creative Tool - Using Unique Perspective
   • RECOMMENDATION: The third image will be of an unusual perspective. Take the picture to purposefully disguise the identity of the object; extreme close-up, shot from above or below, from inside or outside and/or with unusual lighting; extreme low or bright light or shading. Explore textures, sidewalks, walls, ceiling tiles and/or grates. Look for patterns like rows of trees, vehicles, poles, books or fence lines.

Optimize in Photoshop

 

 Optimizing Images in Photoshop [3:48m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

Once you have gathered photographic examples for the three catagories above, upload them to your server account and optimize them in Photoshop.  Have all the images saved in your server account and ready for presentation.

Tags: Camera, Depth of Field, Lens, Lesson Plans, Pattern, Perspective, Photography, Photoshop, Shutter Speed, Sub notes, Texture