Process and progress

essential skills: photographic lighting Process and progress

This book is intended as an introduction to location and studio photography. The emphasis has been placed upon a practical approach to the application of essential skills. The activities and assignments cover a broad range and it is possible to achieve acceptable results without the need for large amounts of expensive equipment.

A structured learning approach

The study guides contained in this book offer a structured learning approach forming the framework for working with photographic lighting and the essential skills for personal creativity and communication. They are intended as an independent learning source to help build design skills, including the ability to research, plan and execute work in a systematic manner. Adoption of a thematic approach is encouraged, recording all research and activities in the form of a Visual Diary and Record Book.

Flexibility and motivation

The assignments contain a degree of flexibility, and allow for the choice of subject matter. This encourages the pursuit of individual interests whilst still directing work towards answering specific criteria. This approach allows the maximum opportunity to develop self-motivation. Emphasis is placed on image design, communication of content and the essential techniques required for competent and consistent image capture and creation. The practical problems of contrast are discussed and additional lighting in the form of flash and tungsten is introduced. Activities and assignments should be undertaken to encourage expression of ideas through the appropriate application of design and technique. Demonstration of skills learnt in preceding study guides is a desirable criteria whenever appropriate.

Implementation of the curriculum

This book provides a suitable adjunct to Essential Skills: Studio Photography, Essential Skills: Digital Photography in Available Light and Essential Skills: Photoshop.

Website

A dedicated website exists to assist with the use of this book. Revision exercises are included on the site as are numerous links and up to date advice and references. The revision exercises should be viewed as another activity which the user resources and completes independently. This will encourage the demonstration of the skills and knowledge acquired in the process of working through the activities and revision exercises by completion of a self-directed series of projects and assignments in the books Essential Skills: Studio Photography and Essential Skills: Digital Photography on Location. The address for the website is: www.photographyessentialskills.com