Photojournalism and Documentary Photography

Course Description

Course examines photojournalism and the documentary tradition. Students will explore a local story idea while learning new technical and visual skills essential to creating a cohesive visual narrative. Prerequisite: ART 285 or permission of instructor; Notes: May be repeated once for credit when the topic varies.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Develop Visual Narratives

  • Research and Develop Subjects

  • Apply Technical and Editing Skills

  • Practice Ethical Representation

  • Analyze and Critique Photographs

  • Complete a Sustained Documentary Project

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure

Percentage/Points

5 Assignments

50%

Presentations/response papers

10%

Participation in class critiques, discussions, and labs

20%

Final project

20%

Assignments and final grades depend on how well the students have displayed in their work the principles of photography covered in class. Students need to be willing to accept criticism and try suggestions. Other factors for determining a final grade include the students' ability to talk insightfully about their work and others. Attendance (see attendance policy) is a factor for final grades.

Percentage

Letter Grade

90-100%

A

80-89%

B

70-79%

C

60-69%

D

0-59%

F

Attendance/Participation:

Three or more unexcused absences will result in the lowering of your grade by one letter. Assignments are expected to be on time, and each day you are late, your grade will be lowered by one letter.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

Epson Luster Paper

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.