(3055) Digital Photography Informational Video

Introduction

  • Eric Westland, instructor with 20 years in technology education.

  • Focus of the course: Empower photographers to use their cameras effectively.

  • Statistics: 95% of photographers rely on automatic camera decisions.

  • Aim: Teach the techniques used by the remaining 5%.

Course Objectives

  • Understand camera features common across most devices.

  • Practical lessons to take photographs using learned features.

  • Adapt lessons to meet individual teaching needs.

  • Learn photo enhancement using free software: LightZone.

    • Note: LightZone features similar capabilities as expensive software.

    • Compatibility: Works on Macs, Windows, and Linux – and it’s free!

Introduction

Eric Westland is an experienced instructor with over 20 years in technology education, particularly focusing on photographic techniques and camera usage.

Focus of the Course

The primary aim of this course is to empower photographers to utilize their cameras effectively beyond automatic settings. Despite the common reliance on automatic camera decisions—95% of photographers typically depend on them—this course strives to equip participants with the knowledge and skills used by the remaining 5% of photographers who take full control of their camera functions and creative processes.

Course Objectives

  • Understand Camera Features: Participants will learn about the various camera features that are common across most devices, providing a solid foundation for mastering camera controls.

  • Practical Lessons: The course includes hands-on practical lessons designed to help students apply what they learn by taking photographs using the features discussed. This experiential approach reinforces learning and enhances skill retention.

  • Adapt Lessons: Each lesson will be adaptable to meet the individual teaching needs and skill levels of participants, ensuring that all students can benefit from the course regardless of their prior knowledge.

  • Photo Enhancement: Students will learn how to enhance their photographs using free software known as LightZone. This program features similar capabilities to more expensive software solutions, making it accessible to all photographers.

  • Compatibility: LightZone is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Mac, Windows, and Linux, ensuring that students can utilize this tool regardless of their computer setup—plus, it’s completely free!

Characteristics of Digital Photography

  • High Resolution: Digital cameras can capture images with a high level of detail, enabling large prints and flexibility in cropping without loss of quality.

  • Instant Review: Photographers can immediately review their images on the camera screen, allowing for on-the-spot adjustments and learning.

  • Image Editing: Digital photos can be easily edited with software, allowing for enhancements, corrections, and creative alterations that would be more challenging with film.

  • Storage Capacity: Digital images can be stored on various media, permitting extensive collections of photos without the physical limitations of film rolls.

  • No Film Costs: Unlike film photography, there are no costs associated with purchasing and developing film, making it economical to experiment and take more shots.

  • File Formats: Digital photography allows for various file formats (e.g., JPEG, RAW), giving photographers control over image quality and editing potential.

  • Connection and Sharing: Digital images can be quickly shared online and through social media platforms, making it easier to disseminate work and connect with other photographers and audiences.

Overall, the course aims not only to enhance technical skills but also to foster a deeper artistic understanding of photography, enabling students to express their creative vision through their lens.

robot