Photo Design I - is a beginning level of photography where students learn basic principles of photography and some of the history behind the technological innovations that brought photography from "a blur to big business".

Students construct a pinhole camera using cardboard and aluminum cans. The cameras are decorated with tesselations and geometric designs or occasionally with freeform designs. These pinhole cameras are then used to take numerous photo assignments that deal with elements of art and principles of design as well as still lifes. Working with simple and somewhat crude cameras helps the students concentrate on the effects and qualities of light. The term photography meaning "light images" has a more significant meaning and the students develop a "sixth sense" about using light to make images. The quality of the images is amazingly clear and excellent quality.

Once the students have made the photographs they are taken and used in other images that go beyond the camera. The images are manipulated further by drawing around an image or drawing on the image with India ink and then bleaching the photograph. Some of the images are also cut up and used in kaleidoscope designs or collages.

During the last weeks of the semester the use of 35mm and digital cameras is discussed and explored. Many students from this class continue to the next level of photography - Photo Design II.

 

Example of student pinhole camera

Jessie K.

 

 

Fisheye image by Phil S.

   

Shape and Wheel assignments by John S.

 

Pinhole photograph with extended drawing by Maria G.