Seminar 1 media theory

Groningen University of Applied Sciences Seminars Media Theory Block 2.2

Structure:
- Six lectures/seminars focused on Media.
- First part: Theoretical instruction.
- Second part: Explanation of and guided work on assignments.
Additional Time:
- One hour for unsupervised work on assignments per session.
Exam Details:
- Digital exam consists of case studies with open questions.
- Topics include Communication Theory and Media Theory.
Contact Information:
- Giuseppe Raudino: g.raudino@pl.hanze.nl, www.linktr.ee/raudino

Week 1: Composition (Chapter 7 and ppt).
Week 2: Typography (Chapter 8 and ppt).
Week 3: Light and Colour (Chapters 9 & 10 and ppt).
Week 4: Visual Language in Practice: Camera Techniques (Chapter 11 and ppt).
Week 5: Usability and Web Design (Chapter 14 and ppt).
Week 6: Time-Based Media (pdfs and ppt), Copyright & Workflow (Chapter 16 and ppt, Q&A, and mock exam).
Week 7: Coaching on Demand.

Students will understand concepts related to graphical, online, and time-based media productions and apply these to develop campaign concepts.

Composition refers to the order and hierarchy of elements on a 2D surface, in 3D space, and through time.
Most media is presented in two dimensions, with depth often suggested.
The time dimension emerges primarily through movement.

Good composition leverages Gestalt laws, which help viewers decipher visual elements:
- Figure-ground: Distinction between the main subject and background.
- Simplicity: Clear and direct visuals are easier to interpret.
- Proximity: Near elements are perceived as related.
- Similarity: Similar elements are grouped visually.

The shape of the surface (rectangle, landscape, circle, etc.) influences how elements are grouped.
Central Composition:
- Elements form recognizable shapes, usually symmetrical (common triangular layout).
Creating Order:
- Patterns can create a modern, less formal effect.

Symmetrical Composition:
- Balanced and restful, often with a central focal point surrounded by smaller elements.
Asymmetrical Composition:
- Creates tension and engages the viewer to find the reason behind the arrangement; uses diagonal lines to guide the eye.
- Vectors in asymmetrical arrangements indicate depth and movement.
Traditional vs. Unconventional Methods:
- Traditional often uses the golden ratio, while unconventional may display only parts of objects.

Composition can be limited by space defined by frames and borders.
Repetition of visual elements can create the illusion of continuity beyond the frame.
Comic strips use visual elements to suggest movement, and photography can imply movement through background focus and motion blur.

Hierarchy: Determines importance through focus, size, and contrast.
Cultural influences on visual reading direction (left to right and top to bottom).
Vectors can alter standard reading paths and guide viewer engagement.
Rhetorical objectives in composition aim to capture attention and evoke emotions, using devices like visual rhyme and contrast.

Must prepare for exams; feedback will be given.
Example Assignment:
- Separate visual elements from a magazine spread using Photoshop, then create a new layout (central or pattern composition).
- Document observations related to changes in appeal and atmosphere between compositions.
- Upload original and modified spreads with key terms to designated online platforms.