Course Outline for Mass Communications 71, Page 2

Chabot College

Course Outline for Mass Communications 71, Page 2

January 1994

Chabot College January, 1994

Removed Fall 2006

Course Outline for Mass Communications 71

BEGINNING PHOTOJOURNALISM

(See also Photography 71)

Catalog Description:

71 - Beginning Photojournalism 2 units

Photojournalism as a medium of mass communications. Application of basic technical and visual skills in the making of successful reportage photographs. Consideration of the work of major 20th century photojournalists. Strongly recommended: Photography 50 or Mass Communications 14 with emphasis in photography (completed with grade "C" or higher). (May not receive credit if Photography 71 has been completed.) 1 hour lecture, 3 hours lab.

Expected Outcomes for Students:

Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to:

1. have an understanding and working knowledge of the 35 mm camera and in-camera light meter;

2. be able to process 35 mm negatives and make sharp, publishable black and with silver prints;

3. scan 35 mm negatives and process them in the Macintosh computer for fully paginated publication layout;

4. using appropriate lenses and lighting, be able to conceive and execute clear, dramatic visual images suitable for publication;

5. demonstrate ability to execute typical journalistic assignments such as spot news feature, profile, sports, setup\studio illustration and photo essay;

6. demonstrate knowledge and appreciation for the development of photojournalism in the 20th century and the medium's most celebrated practitioners.

Course Content:

1. The 35 mm camera

a. Aperture, shutter speed and equivalent exposure

b. Film speed and image characteristics

c. Panning, stop action, blurring to show motion

d. Depth of field and selective focus for creative controls

e. Light meters and exposure calculation

f. Lenses, their effects and appropriate use

g. Mastering the electronic flash

2. Basic processing procedures

a. Negative processing\push processing, digital scanning and software manipulation for fully paginated images

b. Silver print processing, including exposure and contrast control, processing scanned prints digitally

3. Seeing photographically

a. Understanding the camera\film system's response to light

b. Understanding fundamentals of composition, visual design and cropping for final image

c. Understanding the technical and visual circumstances of typical photojournalistic situations

4. History of 20th century photojournalism

a. Early pioneers, their equipment and their work

b. Major photojournalists of the 20th century

c. Social impact of photojournalism as communication medium

Methods of Presentation:

1. Lecture and audio-visual materials

2. In-class demonstration

3. Visiting professionals

4. Field trips

Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:

1. Written examinations and quizzes, including final exam

2. Graded evaluation of photo assignments completed on deadline

3. In-class participation

Textbook(s) (Typical):

Photojournalism, Kenneth Kobre, Focal Press

A Short Course in Photography, Barbara London, Harper Collins

Software: Digital Darkroom, Adobe Photoshop

Special Student Materials:

35 mm camera: one that accepts interchangeable lenses preferred

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Rev. 1/10/94