PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio...

19
Course Syllabus ART 140 – PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY Course Number 36560 ART 290AB – STUDIO ART Course Number 36974 Scottsdale Community College - Main Campus Fall 2011 Instructor: Roger E. Palmenberg

Transcript of PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio...

Page 1: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

Course Syllabus

ART 140 – PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

Course Number 36560

ART 290AB – STUDIO ART

Course Number 36974

Scottsdale Community College - Main Campus

Fall 2011

Instructor:

Roger E. Palmenberg

Page 2: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

2

‚It is one thing to take a picture of a stranger. It is a much more difficult thing to make a portrait of a

stranger to whom the viewer will care about.‛ Paul Strand

‚The lesson was that a portrait must get beyond the almost universal self-consciousness that people have

before the camera. If some moment of reality in the personality of the sitter did not happen, you had to

provoke it in order to produce a portrait that had an identity with the person. The essential thing was to

awaken a genuine response.‛ Edward Steichen, A Life in Photography

‚… The role of the photographer in the making of a portrait is to listen and observe, feel and absorb, to

take the time to learn that story before ever unpacking the camera. Caring comes before you can capture

their story on film. In this way of thinking, to make a portrait is to be a blend of translator and

storyteller…’ Brooks Jensen, editor and publisher of ‘Lenswork’

COURSE NUMBER: ART140 – Portrait Photography Course Number 36560

ART290AB – Studio Art Course Number 36974

INSTRUCTOR: Roger E. Palmenberg

TERM: Fall 2011 – August 30 through December 16, 2011

CLASSROOM: Art Building - Room AB-133 – Main Campus

PHONE NUMBERS: Art Department, 480-423-6344

Instructor, 602-234-0696 ext 170 (M-F, days)

E-mail: [email protected]

OFFICE HOURS: By appointment with instructor

COURSE TIME: Tuesday, 3:00 PM through 7:00 PM and

Optional open studio sessions – selected weekends

PREREQUISITES: ART-131 or permission of the instructor.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The course will provide insight into fine art and commercial

Portrait Photography. The course will include application of the principles of design, lighting,

composition, posing, and portfolio presentation techniques.

This is a creative class; students are expected to have a working understanding of the medium.

Expect to be challenged to produce the best images you have ever created. Portraiture, serious

portraiture, is a two-way street connecting the photographer with the subject. That connection

is expressed in the final print and is evident to anyone looking at the print. It is this level of

Page 3: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

3

competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That means it is absolutely necessary for

you to have a more-than-elementary understanding of the technical aspects of photography. If

you are not at that level, you will be expected to make whatever additional efforts are needed to

improve your skill level. When that skill level is attained, your focus will be with your subject,

not the mechanics of the process. The results will be dramatic and self-evident.

TEXTBOOKS: ‚Vanity Fair‛ magazine subscription and student selected texts relevant to the

course subject (optional), class notes. Students are expected to keep a ‘composition’ style

notebook and a 3-ring loose-leaf binder.

Optional: get a free subscription to ‘Rangefinder’ magazine via the Internet

(www.rangerfinder.com) to supplement class notes and ‘Vanity Fair’; other magazines

that have been popular include ‘Rolling Stone’, ‘W’, and ‘Vogue’.

COURSE COSTS: There is a $25.00 course fee paid at the time of registration. ‚Vanity Fair‛

subscriptions cost $15. In addition, expect to pay for image processing and printing. There are

added costs for preparation of the final portfolio. Expect to shoot dozens (hundreds<!) of

digital images or, 20 or more rolls of film, or 50 or more large format sheets this semester.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Camera (any format), tripod, lens selection; cameras should be of a

higher functionality (professional or ‘pro-sumer’ grade) including manual exposure controls. A

limited inventory of equipment may be available through the college by prior arrangement with

the instructor. A hand-held light meter is good to have. And<

YOUR CAMERA MUST BE ABLE TO UTILIZE OFF-CAMERA STROBE UNITS.

BECOME FAMILIAR WITH YOUR CAMERA AND ASSURE YOURSELF OF THIS

FEATURE AND HOW IT WORKS.

BRING YOUR CAMERA MANUAL TO CLASS IF YOU ARE UNSURE OF THE

FUNCTIONALITY<!

BRING SPARE BATTERIES, EXTRA MEMORY CARDS, A THUMB DRIVE, AND A

CARD READER (NICE TO HAVE, NOT ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY);

USE A LENS HOOD.

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU PURCHASE YOUR OWN RADIO SLAVE UNIT.

WITHDRAWAL: As defined in the SCC Student Handbook

ATTENDANCE: Successful portraiture is all about commitment. Attendance at (and

participation in) class demonstrates commitment. The attendance policy is:

Miss two classes – you may be excused provided advance written notice is given;

Miss the third class – interview with instructor about your commitment;

Miss the fourth class and you will be dropped.

Page 4: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

4

GRADES: Class participation: 40%

Portfolio: 40%

Attendance: 20%

It is not possible to earn an ‘A’ grade without attending and participating in class activities,

presenting a critiqued portfolio that shows progression in the art form, turning in written

assignments – on time, and demonstrating a working understanding of the medium.

DISABILITY STATEMENT: Students with special needs who believe they may need

accommodations in this class are encouraged to contact the Disability & Services Office,

Building SC-144 (Phone 480-423-6517) and the instructor. It is college policy to provide

reasonable accommodations to students with documented special needs.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS: This course includes use of electronic devices that are capable

of shock or other injury; some of the studio equipment is heavy and could be a lifting hazard;

students are asked to assist in set preparation including use of step-ladders; there are tripping

hazards; the studio is crowded and often dimly lit. Exercise caution when performing these

tasks and using the equipment. Operating manuals are available, familiarize yourself with the

equipment before using it; if you are not familiar with the equipment, ask and the instructor

will assist.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT: Course content and topic sequence may change or be modified

in response to class needs. Modifications, if any, will be written and distributed when

appropriate to do so.

MODELS: Models are a part of this course; the success of the class is somewhat dependent on

the availability of models. Class participants are encouraged to invite models to the class.

Everyone photographing a model is expected to submit either prints or images in electronic

media to the model within one-month. A sign-up list and blanket model release will be kept for

each model indicating the class participants involved with that individual as a means to follow-

up on the image production. Submittal of these images is a component of class participation.

The blanket model release has mandatory conditions for the use of images produced.

ASSIGNMENTS: There will be assignments throughout the semester. Assignments are

provided in the weekly syllabus updates as applicable. Assignments are a part of the class

participation component of grading.

QUIZZES: There may be several quizzes in the semester. These quizzes are more for the

instructor than the students since they are an effective means for measuring interest and

progress.

Page 5: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

5

FINAL PORTFOLIO: Students will photograph and display a personal portfolio by the end of

the semester. The portfolio will demonstrate progress in the art form and must include at least

one image from the ‘Set Selections’ column on the following table (matrix).

The final portfolio standards include:

A completed image record; and

A model release.

Complete this matrix with check marks indicating your portfolio selections, no more than four

images per model. Turn in the completed matrix with the Final Portfolio.

ART140 - Portrait Photography

FINAL PORTFOLIO STANDARDS – SELECTIONS MUST INCLUDE AT LEAST ONE IMAGE

FROM EACH OF THE TYPES BELOW; PORTFOLIOS MUST INCLUDE AT LEAST FOUR

DIFFERENT SUBJECTS. ONE IMAGE MAY FIT TWO CATEGORIES….! THE NUMBER OF

IMAGES IN THE FINAL PORTFOLIO VARIES DEPENDING ON YOUR CHOICE OF PRESENTATION

(SEE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW).

Set Selections: at least one image from the selections below

Self-Portrait

Group Portrait

Formal Indoor Portrait

Outdoor Portrait

Full Length Portrait

¾-Length Portrait

Head Shot

Teen, Senior, or Baby

Studio - high key

Studio - low key

Studio - hot lights

Outdoor, ambient

Mixed lighting

IMAGE TYPE: AT LEAST ONE EACH FROM THESE SELECTIONS

Black & White

Color

There are three acceptable submittal formats for the final portfolio: matted prints, prints in a

commercial folio/binder, and a self-published book.

For the matted print portfolio (Ten Images):

You may either print yourself or have them done commercially. Commercial prints

must be ‘custom’ grade; ‘machine’ prints are not acceptable.

Prints must be matted, not framed. A single over-mat with backing is acceptable. Mats

can be either white or black.

The minimum print (not mat) size is 4x5; the maximum print size is 8x10. All matted

prints must be the same overall size (11x14 max) and be placed in a box.

For the bound ‘Folio’ (Twelve print minimum):

Page 6: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

6

The final portfolio can be prints in a folio/binder. If this selection is made, a minimum of

twelve images must be included. You will be expected to present demonstration sheet

inserts for critique to assess the layout, borders, presentation quality, and other factors

as the semester progresses.

Purchase a commercial quality folio binder to accommodate minimum 11x14 size prints,

Design your prints to include logo/personal contact information, uniform borders and

border colors unless you print borderless – BE CONSISTENT;

If you have a mix of vertical and horizontal prints, use a border and a large enough

binder that allows all prints to be viewed WITHOUT having to turn the folio;

Prints in a folio facilitate change out and/or present images to clients. This is a

generally-accepted way of presenting your work in a commercial setting.

For the self-published book portfolio (Twenty image minimum):

The final portfolio can be a self-published book. If this selection is made, a minimum of

twenty images must be included.

Any self-publishing software is acceptable (i.e. BookSmart – www.Blurb.com);

Self-published books will be critiqued on presentation, print quality, tonality, and

overall quality.

Image records and model releases must be submitted; these can be separate from the

book.

Students selecting this alternative must declare their intention no later than November

18 and will be required to show work in progress as prints.

Software proficiency is the individual’s responsibility to acquire – this is not a

component of the course.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE COLLEGE’S ON-GOING OUTREACH PROGRAMS BY SUBMITTING

A CD WITH YOUR FINAL PORTFOLIO. YOUR IMAGES WILL BE CONSIDERED TO ASSIST

WITH PUBLICITY.

FIELD TRIPS AND WEEKEND WORKSHOPS:

Lecture demonstration at Markow Southwest, a commercial photography studio in

Phoenix (The tentative date is October 25).

There will be one, possibly two, off-campus field trips during class to nearby locations

for environmental portraiture.

CLASS EXHIBITIONS: There will be several opportunities to show work:

Display cases in the Art Building hallway are ‘ours’ – the month is TBA.

Final portfolios are viewed collectively the last day of class; typically we ‘show’ in a

meeting room on campus. Often, we have an external reviewer participating;

We will look into having a public exhibition somewhere in Scottsdale. Once finalized,

the work will be selected during the final portfolio reviews.

CIVILITY STATEMENT: To establish a positive learning environment for this class,

Page 7: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

7

As the instructor, I am expected to be professional, courteous, respectful, and empathetic to

students – and to:

Begin and end class on time,

Be prepared for each class session,

Provide academic feedback and grade assignments in a timely manner,

Be available for individual consultation, and

Clarify assignments and inform students of any adjustments to the class schedule.

As a class participant, you are expected to be reflective, courteous, respectful, and empathetic to

other participants, the instructor, models, and other College staff assisting you in your learning

– and to:

Attend the class sessions and be on time,

Be prepared for class sessions,

Interact with other participants, the instructors, and the models in a harmonious manner

that is conducive to creative work – disruptive, argumentative, or contentious behavior

will not be tolerated and will be the basis for being summarily dropped.

Participate in class activities,

TURN OFF CELL PHONES AND DO NOT TEXT MESSAGE DURING CLASS,

Follow instructions and complete assignments,

Keep up with and turn in assignments by the due dates,

Put forth your best effort,

Ask questions when you don’t understand,

Maintain knowledge of your grade status,

Contact the instructor right away about concerns or situations that interfere with your

success in the class, and

Comply with policies found in the College catalog and Student Handbook.

Please refer to the Scottsdale Community College catalog and Student Handbook which

addresses specific policies required of all students (and faculty):

Attendance (AR 2.3.2)

Sexual Harassment (AR 2.4.4 & 5.1.8 – 17)

Copyrights (AR 2.4.5 & 3.2)

OUTCOME AND NEEDS ASSESSMENT: Advancing the skill level of class participants

through effective teaching and successful learning is an over-arching goal. Student progress

can be assessed by comparing images produced at the start of the semester with those included

in the final portfolio. This comparison is useful through the satisfaction of seeing your work

improve; it is useful for the instructor as a means to refine the course syllabus – this win-win

system has proven its merits in the past. The results of this process are documented for use by

SCC.

Page 8: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

8

OTHER COMMENTS:

1. The focus of the class is Portraiture as Fine Art. Fashion Photography, Human Form (i.e.

nude photography) and Photojournalism touch on portraiture but are more ‘focused’

and not part of this syllabus.

2. Class time will be divided between viewing/critiquing work, lecture, and ‘hands on’

studio/outdoor work. Within reason, the instructor often stays late to assist on-going

portrait sessions – 9:00 is pushing it<..

3. Digital vs. film media? Your choice – the class is all about the work produced, not the

image capture method. We may explore film scans and digital manipulation, although

this is not a part of the current syllabus.

4. We will use the studio facilities at SCC – lighting and backdrops; there will be field

sessions – field locations will be announced.

5. The class will include lectures on technique, presentation/critique of student work, and

presentation of other artists’ work. Bring work on digital media (CDs or flash drives)

and use the computer and projection equipment in the studio for presentations.

6. There will be attendance-optional weekend studio sessions periodically throughout the

semester – dates will be announced in class.

7. Portrait photographers we will be discussing include: Steichen, Strand, Weston, Irving

Penn, Judy Dater, Shelby Lee Adams, Albert Watson, Greg Gorman, Annie Leibovitz,

Timothy Greenfield Sanders, Avedon, and others. Look at their work on the web. There

will be a limited discussion on historical portraiture including daguerreotypes and

pictorialists.

8. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of books on portraiture and lighting techniques – get

one if you feel you must – be sure to get one that has lighting diagrams. The class

textbook(s) will be ‚Vanity Fair‛ magazine and hand-outs from the instructor – we are

looking for fresh style, evolving work, and the best in the field<.

9. It is not possible to make all of the portraits required for the final portfolio during class

studio sessions. Seek and use other, off-campus locations as you see fit.

10. This class is all about making portraits; expect to shoot and print – dozens (more like

hundreds) of digital images, or more than 20 rolls of film, or 50 (or more) large format

frames in order to meet the class objectives. The cost for these materials is in addition to

other class costs; these costs are the responsibility of class participants.

11. The class has access to the SCC darkrooms. The instructor will make time available on

weekends for additional assistance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. What if my model friend doesn’t want to be photographed by others except me? Models

coming into the class need to understand before coming that others in the class will want

to photograph them. This is part of the class experience and helps everyone become

better able to work with persons unfamiliar to them. Explain this to your model and if

this policy is unacceptable, do not bring them to class.

2. Do I have to share my model(s)? See the response given above.

Page 9: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

9

3. Can I access the studio on other non-class days? The studio is available for certain time

blocks indicated on the sign-up sheet outside the door. Use the sign-up sheet. Be

advised that the course instructor is not on-campus any other time than Tuesday

afternoons. This means you will need to coordinate your studio time with another

instructor to gain access to the equipment locker for the lights, etc. Weekend open

studio times will be scheduled throughout the semester.

4. What about wardrobe for the model(s)? There is a limited set of clothes for use by our

(female) models. Encourage your models to bring clothing they are comfortable

wearing – and bring a selection.

5. What about model releases? There is a blanket model release and conditions of use

document that is the only release to be used for models being photographed on campus.

Copies are available through the instructor. Children will need written permission from

their parents – as indicated on the blanket model release.

6. How does my camera work with studio lighting? Read the camera manual and become

familiar with this functionality. Bring the manual with you to class. If you don’t have a

copy of the manual, do a Google search on the web and find a source to get a copy.

Practice<!

7. How late can I stay after class? Within reason, we often stay until 8:30 PM. Be sensitive

to the model, the college’s janitorial staff, and the instructor. It is very satisfying to see

work being done and the excitement associated with it making it hard to ‘shut down’.

Have your model(s) arrive at 5:00 PM to be ready to begin the session. Pre-plan the

session beforehand. Avoid overly complex sets, lighting, and wardrobe.

8. Is nudity allowed? Work in class is limited to photographing non-gender specific body

parts. If you and the model want to go further, do so off campus.

9. Can I sell my work? Do not bring models into class for commercial work. Do your

commercial work off-campus. The blanket model release contains the restriction on use

of images produced during class.

10. Are there commercial opportunities associated with this class? Often, there are requests

for quotation for commercial work. The instructor will notify class participants via e-

mail of these opportunities when they become available. The business of portrait

photography is a topic for discussion during the semester.

THERE IS A CONTINUAL NEED FOR PORTRAIT SUBJECTS. INVITE FRIENDS OR

ACQUAINTANCES TO CLASS FOR PORTRAIT SITTINGS – BUT PLEASE MAKE PRIOR

ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE INSTRUCTOR.

Page 10: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

10

NOTE:

PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THE ‘ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF

COURSE SYLLABUS’ FORM INCLUDED WITH THE COURSE HANDOUTS AT

THE START OF THE SEMESTER.

Page 11: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

11

COURSE SCHEDULE

WEEK 1: August 30

1. Introductions - instructor and students

2. Hand out and complete ‘Acknowledgment of Receipt of Course Syllabus’

3. Handout course description and schedule, grading policy, review and discuss

Final Portfolio (see OTHER COMMENTS), class performance standards.

4. Collect student names and addresses.

5. Textbook discussion – Vanity Fair, other texts and web-based resources.

6. Discussion – camera format, film, processing, printing and other equipment.

There will be printing demos depending on needs. Digital shooters must

demonstrate proficiency in Photoshop (or equal) and high quality printing

(My pet peeve: magenta skin tones!!).

7. Handout and discuss ‘Image Record’ sheets.

8. Discussion and demonstration of studio equipment, studio use, darkroom

availability and use including rules, safety, etc.

9. Discussion – Portrait versus Snapshot (Handout – Editorial from Lenswork)

10. Question and answer session.

11. Assignment – Bring in one finished portrait, any subject. Get a single copy of

‚Vanity Fair‛, select and ‘deconstruct’ one portrait from it (old copies are

readily available for a nominal cost).

WEEK 2: September 6

1. Take attendance, collect assignments – ‚Vanity Fair‛ image deconstruction;

2. Add/drop, finalize class roster.

3. Review policy on after hour use of studio facilities at SCC;

4. Random selection and viewing of student work, discussion, critique.

5. Discussion of selected images from ‘Vanity Fair' and image ‘deconstruction.

6. Handout and discussion - use of model releases;

7. Introduction to basic lighting for portraits.

a. Studio

b. Natural

i. Indoor

Page 12: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

12

ii. Outdoor

c. Corrective Lighting Techniques

d. Balancing Lights

i. Mood, tone, and drama

ii. Strobe – monolight, power pack, small (i.e. Sunpack 383)

iii. Tungsten (less important for B&W than color)

8. Time permitting: presentation of my work with class critique and discussion.

9. Assignment – Produce two portraits – any subject, any format – for group

viewing and critique. Portraits are to be complete with image record.

WEEK 3: September 13

1. Add/drop, attendance

2. Return homework from last week – image deconstruct, portraits. There will

be a brief discussion on the work.

3. Collect homework from last week: ‘Vanity Fair’ image deconstruct, two

portraits (finished, or near finished).

4. Review/continue discussion of ‘Basic Lighting’ to include outdoor lighting

techniques, use of a backdrop, small strobe with umbrella, and reflectors. We

will have outdoor demos while the ambient light lasts, then move back into

the studio.

5. Review/continue discussion of lens choices telephoto versus normal versus

wide angle.

6. Class handouts: Lighting techniques, instructions for making diffuser panels,

and the revised syllabus.

7. Review preparation of Image Record diagrams.

8. Studio sessions in groups or individually to review the lighting concepts

previously discussed.

9. Assignment: ‘Vanity Fair’ image deconstruct; self-portrait – of yourself by

yourself, including shutter release.

WEEK 4: September 20

1. Add/drop and attendance, update e-mail list, collect/return assignments

2. Presentation of self-portraits, group critique and discussion.

3. Handouts: ‘Sekonic’ meter information.

4. Review of earlier topics.

5. Update on class visit to Paul Markow Photography studio.

6. (Tentative) presentation (Paul Strand and Irving Penn) – class discussion.

Page 13: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

13

7. Portrait Posing:

a. Basic Principles

b. Corrective Techniques

c. Natural and Creative Posing

i. Groups

ii. Individuals

iii. Children

iv. Couples

8. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

9. At the conclusion of this class, everyone should have shown and been

critiqued on at least two formal portraits.

10. Assignment – Deconstruct one image from ‘Vanity Fair’ and continue

production of random subject portraits.

WEEK 5: September 27

1. Attendance, submit/return assignment (self-portrait, image deconstruct)

2. Presentation and group critique of earlier work – self-portraits.

3. Review/Continue discussion of earlier topics (Portrait Posing).

4. Presentation – selected portraits by notable photographers – Albert Watson.

5. Introduction to Composition: Leave ‘space’ around subject for cropping and

composition in printing. Full length, ¾, headshots, etc. ‘The eyes have it‛.

6. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

7. Assignment: ‘Vanity Fair’ image deconstruct; random subjects demonstrating

concepts already discussed.

WEEK 6: October 4

1. Attendance roster, return assignments

2. Handouts: syllabus with lecture notes, ‚The Photographer’s Right‛, ‚The

Confrontation‛

3. Random presentation and critique of student work.

4. Presentation – Shelby Lee Adams – Environmental Portraiture

5. Discussion – Portrait presentations – printing, mat size, etc. Ovals, floating

mounts, archival discussion, portfolio considerations.

6. Discussion: Composition, Motif, Creating a Setting, Leading Lines, Shape,

Direction

7. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

Page 14: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

14

8. Assignment: One ‚Vanity Fair‛ image deconstruct; produce and turn-in two

portraits of random subjects demonstrating concepts.

WEEK 7: October 11

1. Attendance, turn in, return assignments

2. Student Presentation and critique of earlier work

3. Review/Continue discussion of earlier topics (Composition).

4. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

5. Assignment: ‘Vanity Fair’ image deconstruct. Continue production of

portrait portfolio. At this point in time, students should have completed at

least four portraits suitable for inclusion in the final portfolio.

WEEK 8: October 18

1. Attendance, turn in, return assignments

2. Bring portfolio and in-progress work for random presentation and critique.

3. Principles of Design

a. Harmony

b. Balance

c. Repetition

d. Contrast or Discord

e. Rhythm and Movement

f. Unity

g. Impact

h. Lightness, Tone/Color and Texture

4. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

5. Assignment: Random portraits of interesting subjects.

WEEK 9: October 25 - Markow Studio Visit (tentative) – meet at 4:00 PM

The studio is located at 2222 East McDowell Road in Phoenix; phone 602-273-7986

WEEK 10: November 1

1. Attendance, turn in assignments – six portraits and one Vanity Fair image

deconstruct

2. Presentation of class work – individual presentations

3. Review of class tour of Paul Markow Studio:

Page 15: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

15

a. Paul’s ‘book’ for sets and lighting;

b. He works exclusively in color;

c. Paul’s comment on ‘Do’ versus ‘Teach’;

d. Comments and questions.

4. Presentation – Richard Avedon

5. Comments on grading policies and impressions so far.

6. Discussion – additional time for darkroom printing and studio work.

7. Presentation and discussion – Principles of Design

8. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions – individual and groups.

9. Assignment: Vanity Fair deconstruct, continue production of final portfolio.

WEEK 11: November 8

1. Attendance, turn in, return assignments

2. Presentation of student work-in-progress. Bring in portfolios for individual

review and critique of progress.

3. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

4. Assignment: Continue production of portfolios.

WEEK 12: November 15 (Deadline for final portfolio declaration)

1. Attendance, turn in, return assignments

2. Presentation of student work-in-progress. Bring in portfolios for individual

review and critique of progress.

3. Vanity Fair – class exercise to deconstruct a selected image.

4. Introduction to ‚The Business of Portrait Photography‛

5. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

6. Individual discussions with instructor – ‘catch-as-catch can’.

7. Assignment: Vanity Fair image deconstruct; continue production of

portfolios.

WEEK 13: November 22 (Note: There is NO Thanksgiving holiday/vacation)

1. Attendance roster; turn in assignments

2. Individual presentations of student work

3. Discussion/demonstration of ‘ring lighting’ effect demonstrated by Markow,

other studio portrait lighting techniques

4. Operating a Portrait Photography Business

a. Considerations

Page 16: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus

16

i. Personal

ii. Financial

b. Small Business Practices

c. Promotional Techniques

5. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

6. Assignment: Vanity Fair deconstruct; continue production of portfolios.

WEEK 14: November 29

1. Attendance, turn in assignments

2. Presentations of work

3. Review/Continue discussion of earlier topics (Business).

4. Tentative - ‘super large’ format demonstration – 8x10 and 11x14 cameras

5. Studio/Outdoor portrait sessions.

6. Assignment: ‘Vanity Fair’ image deconstruct; continue production of

portfolios.

WEEK 15: December 6

1. Attendance, turn in assignments.

2. Hand out class critique – turn them in next week.

3. Discuss presentation locations and select student presentation sequence for

individual portfolios.

4. Discussion of final submittal – 10 finished prints, image record, contact

sheets, prior print with critique if the final one is a re-print of an earlier

version.

5. Open discussion of topics discussed during the semester.

6. Group portrait.

7. Assignment: Continue production of portfolios. It is permissible, in fact

encouraged, to re-print individual portraits as techniques improve.

WEEK 16: December 13 - Last day of class

1. Presentation and critique of student portrait portfolios.

2. Class critique

Page 17: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF THE

COURSE SYLLABUS

I, _________________________________________, hereby acknowledge that

I have received a copy of the course syllabus for ART 140 – Portrait

Photography for the Fall semester, 2011 taught at Scottsdale Community

College (Main Campus). The course instructor was Roger E. Palmenberg.

_______________________________________ _______________

(Signature) (Date)

______________________________________

(Print Name)

Page 18: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

Official Course Description: MCCCD Approval: 11/14/89

ART140 19902-99999 L+L 2 Credit(s) 4 Period(s)

Portrait Photography

Insight into the profession of Portrait Photography. Application of the principles of design and

fine art in lighting, composition, and posing. Prerequisites: ART131 or permission of instructor.

Go to Competencies Go to Outline

MCCCD Official Course Competencies:

ART140 19902-99999 Portrait Photography

1. Use basic studio lighting portraits. (I)

2. Evaluate and employ natural lighting techniques, both indoors and outdoors. (I)

3. Apply corrective lighting techniques. (I)

4. Execute balanced lighting techniques to create mood, tone, and drama. (I)

5. Use basic principles of and corrective techniques in posing. (II)

6. Apply natural and creative posing to a variety of clientele. (II)

7. Apply composition and the principles of design to create the greatest impact on portraits. (III,

IV)

8. Integrate the principles of design and describe their effects on mood and emotion. (IV)

9. Identify and describe the practices which relate to portrait photography as a business and

profession. (V)

Go to Description Go to top of Competencies

MCCCD Official Course Outline:

ART140 19902-99999 Portrait Photography

I. Basic Lighting for Portraits

A. Studio

B. Natural

1. Indoors

2. Outdoors

C. Corrective Lighting Techniques

D. Balancing Lights

1. Mood, tone, and drama

2. Strobe

3. Tungsten

II. Portrait Posing

A. Basic Principles

B. Corrective Techniques

C. Natural and Creative Posing

Page 19: PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SYLLABUS - Scottsdale … · ART-140 Portrait Photography and ART-290AB Studio Art – Syllabus 3 competence that we will strive to attain in this class. That

1. Groups

2. Individuals

3. Children

4. Couples

III. Composition

A. Motif

B. Creating a Setting

C. Leading lines

D. Shape

E. Direction

IV. Principles of Design

A. Color Harmony

B. Balance

C. Repetition

D. Contrast or Discord

E. Rhythm and Movement

F. Unity

G. Impact

H. Lightness, Color, and Texture

V. Operating a Portrait Photography Business

A. Considerations

1. Personal

2. Financial

B. Small Business Practices

C. Promotional Techniques