Courses

Alfred University ~ Spring, 2012

Introduction to Photography in Black & White is an intro to the process of seeing and rendering form in two monochromatic dimensions, and capturing the image of that form with the help of a camera and light-sensitive emulsion. When you think about it, it's not such an easy thing to do well, though everyone can do it at a beginner's level. We're hoping to build enough technical proficiency and visual literacy to enable self-directed criticism, analysis of difficulties, and in the end, improvement. A version of this course has also been offered to Liberal Arts majors.

Visual Communications I — introduces non-art and business students to the problems, tools, methods, and process of communication design. We'll stress basic principles and how they relate to the perception of form and the organization of information. Topics will include design elements, typography, information heirarchy, and organizational strategies. This is a workshop-oriented course where you can expect to be thinking with your hands and eyes as well as your head. The goal is to enhance both personal communication as well as your appreciation for the process of visual problem-solving.

My Approach to Learning

You may want to know something about me before you sign up for a whole course--fourteen long weeks -- with me. Your best bet is to ask students who have taken my courses, but if you feel the need to read what I am trying to do, here is my teaching philosophy.

Previous Courses

Studio Light will cover the basics of creating images in the clean-slate environment of the photographic studio. We will emphasize light as the primary means for articulating form, and work through the basic principles of light control, backgrounds, studio production, and feedback using digital capture tools and worflow software. During the second part of the course an independent project will be designed and executed.

Introduction to Digital Photography
An introduction to digital photography, emphasizing non-destructive, sustainable workflow and the qualities of the digital image that make it unique, useful, and flexible. A portable hard drive and access to a digital camera are required. Although many cameras are usable, those that have good manual controls and which can capture raw files are the most suitable. This includes practically all digital single lens reflex cameras as well as a few sophisticated "point-and-shoots" cameras. Bring whatever you have to the first class.

Professional Portfolio “We're not in Kansas anymore Toto.” Professional Portfolio is a hands-on workshop for students preparing to enter the job market. The goal is to develop a set of professional marketing tools for letting potential employers or clients know who you are and what you can do for them. We will be working with words and images, design and live presentation, print and electronic media to help make your message loud, clear, and intelligent.

Foundations ~ Time    Seven week A and B block workshops introducing students to the elements of time-based thinking and problem solving, working with both historical and contemporary methods.

Visual Communications II    A continuation of the previous semester's introduction to visual media. This semester we will reinforce principles with practical applications in print and on the web. This course offered for marketing majors. A portable hard drive is required.

The View Camera   Big, awkward, and completely controllable. Spring 2007 at Alfred University

Photo Business Management    Crash course in business principles for photographers. Last offered Fall 2006 at RIT