Project 17: Sustained Photographic Exploration
Overview:
In this assignment, you will embark on a sustained photographic exploration to delve deeply into a subject matter or theme of your choice. This assignment is designed to encourage you to develop your own photographic vision, explore different aspects of photography, and refine your technical skills. Through this process, you will gain a deeper understanding of your chosen subject and express your ideas and emotions through photography.
Objectives:
- Develop a personal photographic vision and style.
- Explore a subject matter or theme in depth.
- Experiment with different photographic techniques and approaches.
- Refine technical skills in photography.
- Communicate ideas and emotions effectively through images.
Instructions:
Topic Selection:
- Choose a subject matter or theme that interests you and has the potential for exploration and interpretation through photography.
- Consider subjects that you are passionate about or curious to learn more about. Your chosen topic could be broad or specific, but it should be something you are willing to explore extensively.
Research and Planning:
- Conduct research on your chosen topic to gain a deeper understanding of its various aspects, contexts, and potential visual interpretations.
- Develop a plan outlining the scope of your exploration, potential shooting locations, subjects, and photographic techniques you intend to use.
- Consider the mood, atmosphere, and storytelling elements you want to convey through your images.
Execution:
- Begin your sustained photographic exploration by capturing images related to your chosen topic.
- Experiment with different photographic techniques such as composition, lighting, exposure, depth of field, and post-processing to enhance your images.
- Use a variety of camera equipment and accessories to achieve different effects if available.
Reflection and Iteration:
- Regularly review your images and reflect on your progress. Consider what is working well and what areas you can improve upon.
- Seek feedback from your instructor, peers, or mentors to gain different perspectives on your work.
- Be open to iterating on your initial plan and exploring new ideas or directions as you progress through the assignment.
Presentation:
- Select a series of your best images that effectively communicate your exploration of the chosen topic.
- Arrange your images in a cohesive sequence that tells a story or conveys a message.
- Consider the presentation format for your final images, whether it be in print, digital, or an mini exhibition.
Documentation and Reflection:
- Document your creative process, including research, planning, shooting, and editing, through written reflections, sketches, or journal entries.
- Reflect on your overall experience, challenges encountered, lessons learned, and how your understanding of the chosen topic evolved through the photographic exploration.
Submission:
Submit your final set of images along with your documentation
and reflection no later than May 10th.
Grading Criteria:
- Creativity and Originality: How unique and imaginative is your exploration of the chosen topic?
- Technical Skill: How proficient are you in applying photographic techniques to enhance your images?
- Cohesion and Narrative: How well do your images work together to convey a cohesive story or message?
- Reflection and Documentation: How well do you articulate your creative process and insights gained through the assignment?
- Note: Remember to respect ethical guidelines and legal considerations when photographing people, private property, or sensitive subjects. Always prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and others during the photographic exploration.
Here are several examples of photographic genres that you could explore in the "Sustained Photographic Exploration" assignment:
Portrait Photography:
- Explore the nuances of human expression, personality, and character through portraits of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experiment with different lighting setups, compositions, and poses to convey different moods and emotions.
Landscape Photography:
- Capture the beauty and grandeur of natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, coastlines, and rural scenes.
- Focus on composition, lighting, and perspective to evoke a sense of awe and connection with the natural world.
Street Photography:
- Document everyday life and moments in urban environments, capturing the energy, diversity, and spontaneity of city streets.
- Pay attention to composition, timing, and storytelling to create compelling narratives within the frame.
Documentary Photography:
- Explore social issues, cultural traditions, or environmental concerns through documentary photography.
- Conduct in-depth research and engage with communities to tell powerful stories through images that raise awareness and promote empathy.
Abstract Photography:
- Experiment with shapes, patterns, textures, and colors to create visually striking abstract images.
- Explore unconventional perspectives and compositions to challenge viewers' perceptions and evoke emotions.
Still Life Photography:
- Arrange and photograph objects, food, or scenes to explore themes of symbolism, nostalgia, or aesthetic beauty.
- Experiment with lighting, composition, and props to create visually captivating and thought-provoking images.
Documentary Portraiture:
- Combine elements of documentary and portrait photography to tell the stories of individuals within specific communities or subcultures.
- Capture intimate moments, environments, and personal narratives to create a deeper understanding of the subject's life and experiences.
Nature Photography:
- Focus on capturing the beauty and diversity of the natural world, including wildlife, landscapes, and ecosystems.
- Highlight conservation efforts, environmental challenges, or the interconnectedness of all living beings through your images.
Conceptual Photography:
- Explore abstract concepts, emotions, or philosophical ideas through symbolic or metaphorical imagery.
- Use visual metaphors, surrealism, or staged scenes to provoke thought and invite viewers to interpret the images in multiple ways.