Description:

This course provides an introduction to advanced techniques, tools, procedures and concepts of photographic imaging, with an emphasis on black-and-white photography as a fine art. Students will use Zone System tests and procedures to produce prints of maximum quality. Students will use advanced techniques, such as split-developers for contrast control, multiple-imaging and archival processing, and print presentation. Several "alternative" printing processes will be discussed and demonstrated. This course also includes a basic introduction to medium format (2 1/4) and large format (4 x 5) camera equipment and technique. Students will apply the above to make images for a series of conceptually advanced, project/series-oriented assignments to stimulate the student's creative capacities for personal expression, communication and self-understanding. 6 hrs. lecture, lab/wk.

Associated Costs: These are additional (out-of-pocket) expense considerations that students should expect in addition to the course tuition, fees, and textbooks. $100 to $150.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor’s course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Define terms in the vocabulary of advanced photographic imaging, the Zone System, and special darkroom techniques.
2. Use photographic equipment, materials and processes. Specifically: a) Apply the Zone System controls and techniques to obtain maximum negative and print quality; b) Use advanced darkroom processes and chemistry such as: two-bath film developing, Selenium and Sepia print toners, “A&B” print developers, and Farmer’s reducer. Analyze results; c) Use archival processing and procedures to produce fiber-based prints of maximum permanence; d) Observe demonstrations of at least two of the “alternative” printmaking processes. At instructor’s discretion, use one of the processes to create personal images; e) Use at least two multiple-imaging techniques -- in-camera exposures, multiple-negative printing, or digital compositing; f) Identify, describe, and explain the uses, advantages and disadvantages of medium and large format cameras; g) Produce photographs using medium format and large format cameras.
3. Demonstrate the use of “selective composition” that is unique to the medium of photography. Apply the basic principles of visual organization which contribute to composition unity.
4. Produce several project-oriented series of conceptually advanced photographic images that function as creative visual communication and self-expression.
5. Operate basic digital imaging equipment and software.
6. Identify important information needed to solve a problem, generate alternative solutions and select the best or most appropriate solution.
7. Demonstrate safe use of tools and equipment, comply with health and safety rules.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. History of Photography
   A. Trace the evolution of photography as a fine art.
   B. Describe aesthetic movements such as the “photo secession” and
“pictorialism.”
   C. List and describe various photographic styles.
   D. Describe the contributions of influential photographers and
organizations such as the F.S.A.

II. Zone System
   A. Define terms in the special vocabulary of the Zone System,
including:
      1. D-max.
      2. Film-base + Fog.
      3. True film speed -- “E.I.”
      4. Expansion, Compaction -- “N+” and “N–.”
      5. “S.E.T.”
      6. Zone.
      7. “Place” and “Fall.”
      8. H&D curves.
      9. Densitometer.
   B. Establish a personal “Standard Enlarging Time” -- “S.E.T.” 
Determine the minimum enlarger exposure time needed to print a “clear” --
film-base+fog -- negative as maximum paper black.
   C. Determine “true film speed.” Establish a personal “Exposure Index --
E.I.”
      1. Make a series of exposures, each representing a Zone I exposure
at a different film speed.
      2. Determine which exposure is optimum for Zone I -- indicating the
effective film speed -- by performing a printing test. 
   D. Test for “N” (normal) and “N-1” (compaction) film developing times.
   E. Explain the use of camera filters for tone and contrast control.
   F. Produce a series of photographs applying the Zone System test
results information.

III. Advanced Chemical Darkroom Processes
   A. Use special toners to alter print color and/or to enhance
permanence, including:
      1. Sepia toner.
      2. Selenium toner.
      3. “Split-toning.”
   B. Control negative contrast using a two-bath development process, such
as:
      1. D-23 (low contrast formula) with a Kodak (sodium metabisulfite)
or Borax second-bath.
      2. D-76 or HC-110 with a water second-bath.
      3. Diafine (tm) A&B.
   C. Control print contrast using a split development process, such as:
      1. “A&B” print developing using the Beer’s formulas.
      2. Two-bath development using Dektol and Selectol-Soft developers.
      3. Dektol and a water second-bath.
   D. Bleach prints using Farmer’s reducer (potassium ferricyanide and
sodium thiosulfite).
   E. Archival processing and presentation.
      1. List and describe the procedures for archival processing.
      2. Process prints for maximum permanence using archival processing
chemicals and procedures.
      3. Cut at least three bevel-edged window over-mats for archival
print presentation. 

IV. Alternative Printmaking Processes  
   A. Use one of the  alternative” processes to create personal images.
Select appropriate manipulations and evaluate results. Some choices:
      1. Polaroid transfer.
      2. Gum bichromate.
      3. Ortho (Litho) fil for extreme contrast.
      4. Cyanotype -- “blueprinting.”
      5. Direct-positive B&W slides.
   B. Produce expressive images using a multiple-imaging technique, such
as those listed below. Choose at least one to apply to personal images.
      1. In-camera multiple exposures. 
      2. Multiple-negative printing.
         a. Sandwich negatives.
         b. Use multiple enlargers.
      3. Digital image compositing.
         a. Use one or more of the Photoshop techniques for combining
images -- cut and paste, cloning, multiple layers, etc.
         b. Print out a hard copy.

V. Medium-Format Cameras
   A. Explain the uses, advantages and disadvantages of various
medium-format cameras.
   B. Make photographs using a medium-format camera.

VI. Large-Format Cameras
   A. Identify camera types -- formats (4x5, 5x7, 8x10, etc.), monorails,
flatbed / field.
   B. Explain the uses, advantages and disadvantages of various
large-format cameras.
   C. Demonstrate the use of large-format cameras.
   D. Describe the controls for focal-plane orientation (Scheimpflug
principle) and perspective “correction.”

VII. Produce several project-oriented series (5-15 images each) of
conceptually advanced photographs that function as creative visual
communication and self-expression. Explore the subject emphasizing the
idea of a coherent set or group of images contributing to the meaning of
core concepts or issues.

VIII. Produce a final portfolio of 5-10 non-assignment prints that
demonstrate the application and integration of the course content.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Tests: 3 to 5 quizzes and a final exam which stress factual knowledge
(terminology, methods, classifications) and fundamental principles and
theories. (10% - 25%)

Assignments: Production of photographic prints satisfying the requirements
of a series of assignments designed to develop specific skills,
competencies and points of view and to stimulate the students’ creative
capacities for personal expression and self-understanding. (50% - 80%)

Final Project or Portfolio: Production of a final portfolio or a final
project of non-assignment prints which demonstrates the students’
integration of the course content. (10% - 25%)

Caveats:

1. Students must provide their own camera with adjustable focus, shutter speeds and aperture.

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.