DIGITAL ART
©William Eggleston
Instructor: Mrs. Hannah Cooper McCauley, MFA
Classroom: Ayers A116 (Mac Lab)
Office: A101 in Photo Lab
Office Phone: 210.564.6187
Email: h.cooper@tmi-sa.org
Office Hours: MWF during US Flex Time,
before and after school by appointment
The eye should learn to listen before it looks. - Robert Frank
I really believe there are things nobody would see if I didn’t photograph them. - Diane Arbus
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Digital Art is an introductory course that focuses on digital literacy through image production and composition, primarily utilizing Photoshop and briefly introducing other programs from the Adobe Creative Suite. Students will learn technical aspects of digital media and digital photography including camera function, basic Photoshop processing, image manipulation, digital workflow, and color management. Students will explore visual language in a digital context, and they will learn how to practice reading and thinking critically about the digital messages and imagery they see daily. Students will also be introduced to industry standards of fine-art digital production as well as historic and conceptual aspects of photography, design, and digital imagery.
The first semester of the course will focus on an introduction to photography and the primary software used will be Adobe Photoshop and Bridge. The second semester will utilize Adobe Premiere Pro and InDesign.
Students will be required to keep a digital blog that will serve as their primary portfolio for the class. Digital Art fulfills the prerequisite for Photography I and II, Videography, Yearbook, and Animation classes at TMI.
CLASS WEBSITE www.tmi-photo.com
Our class website is the primary method for communication between instructor and student. This site includes weekly class announcements, assignment parameters and due dates, slideshows, tutorials, and photography resources. It is the student’s responsibility to check the class website often. The syllabus and instructor contact information will also be available on our site.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
SUGGESTIONS FOR CAMERAS:
Students must have access to a DSLR camera throughout the entire semester with manual controls and RAW image capture capabilities—other point and shoot cameras will not work for this course due to the nature of instruction and assignments. Students may not share cameras with other students in the same course. Any questions about cameras can be addressed to me via email. Shortly after the start of the school year, we will have a graded in-class camera check to make sure that each students’ camera meets the course criteria.
I recommend the Canon Rebel T6 (18 megapixel with 18-55mm kit lens) or Canon Rebel SL1 (18 megapixel with 18-55mm kit lens). This will cost approximately $400-600 (without accessories) new at Amazon, B&H Photo, or Best Buy (see links below). Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Panasonic also have great DSLR options.
Used options are available on Craigslist or Ebay for under $200.
Canon T6:
https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-Camera-18-55mm-3-5-5-6/dp/B01CO2JPYS/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
Canon SL1:
https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Rebel-Digital-18-55mm-Lens/dp/B00BW6LY2Y/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1502864029&sr=8-5&keywords=canon+sl1
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION AND STUDY
This course is organized around a number of components that introduce specific information or experience:
CLASS RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
Always follow the TMI Honor Code: Because I believe that integrity is essential, I promise not to lie, cheat, or steal.
GRADING
Projects (50%):
Students will shoot, edit, create, and submit projects as assigned throughout the year. These projects are designed to utilize a variety of learned photographic skills and concepts as well as introduce students to thematic ideas that require a deeper level of understanding and intention. The semester will conclude with students producing a comprehensive major project in addition to keeping a personal portfolio blog showcasing their digital work.
Please note: Students will be required to shoot photographs outside of class and on weekends. In-class time will be primarily used for lectures, class discussions, critical analysis exercises, workshops, Photoshop editing, critiquing, and covering other relevant material. It is essential that students have assignment images ready for editing by the given deadline. If not, students will be given an alternate in-class assignment and will receive no credit for the day’s assignment.
Critical Analyses (25%)
Students will write weekly critical analyses on works of photographic art. An image will be published weekly on our class blog. Students will spend time studying the image and then write a detailed analysis of the photograph. They will then publish their analysis as a comment to the blog post; this comment should show the student’s name, time posted, and word count. The analysis must be posted to the original blog post in order to be graded.
Students will write eleven critical analyses during each semester, and the lowest grade per semester will be dropped. A detailed rubric with parameters will be handed out in class.
These analyses are critical to the development of the student artist. By learning to be critical on a variety of photographs, students will learn how to see; that is, they will learn how to dissect an image based on its technical, formal, compositional, and thematic content. Through critical analyses, students will practice giving feedback and formal critiques on their classmates’ digital projects, and they will develop vocabulary and a deeper understanding of visual language and practice.
In-Class Assignments (25%):
These may include:
Grades, assignments, and project details will be uploaded and available for review online, and each student is responsible for checking onCampus regularly. Please see me as soon as possible if you have any questions or concerns about your grade or progress in class.
Grades will be determined by using the following criteria:
Quality:
The success of the images you make is a reflection of the degree of clarity and commitment you put into an idea. Every aspect of your image is a decision. Do not expect good results (or a good grade) through procrastination and last-minute action. However, mistakes do happen and things may fail- do not get discouraged, it is all part of the learning process. Some of the most inspiring works were born out of accidents and frustrations. Use your mistakes to your advantage, but do not use them as a reason for not doing work. Take the failures and rework them into successes.
Quantity:
Creating art is a process of discovery. It requires research into ideas and materials, as well as experimentation to see what excites you. The more you play, the more you think, and the more you work, the better you will become.
Think Hard:
This is an art class. Art is about thinking. Think about your ideas and concepts to make thoughtful images. We see so many pictures everyday. How are you going to make something that holds our attention? It is difficult to do this, so think and work hard.
Technique:
Assignments will be evaluated on the basis of the care and craft you have put into your work, and the technical decisions made to support the content and/or ideas it represents. If you do not care about how your work looks, why should anyone else?
Craft:
A demonstrated ability to use tools and execute techniques. Neatness counts. You will be downgraded for sloppy technique.
Concept:
The inspiration and/or ideas behind the technique, or what your work is about. Making thoughtful photographs is hard work. Push yourself.
Creativity:
The level of innovation exhibited in the execution of craft and concept.
In keeping with the grading policies of what is accepted as a standard at most colleges I assign the following definitions to letter grades. Please note I am not in the habit of inflating grades. You will get the grade you earn.
Grading Criteria
A =Outstanding achievement technically and conceptually. Far above the level necessary to meet the course requirements. The Best. (>, =, 90%)
B= Significantly above the level necessary to meet course requirements. Above average.
(>, =, 80%, < 90%)
C= Satisfies the course requirements (everything required is completed). Average. (>, =,70%, < 80%)
D = Worthy of credit while failing to meet all of the course requirements. Poor. (>, =, 60%, < 70%)
F =Failing to meet course requirements. Unacceptable. (< 60%)
A: Excellent: Work that is of outstanding caliber, exhibiting exceptional comprehension of the material, along with meticulous attention to craft and innovative application of skills. This work is exceptional in every way and is indicative of the highest possible thought and effort. Be prepared to work hard if this is the grade you want to achieve.
B: Above Average: Work that is well done in all respects and exhibits better than average comprehension of material, better than average attention to craft and thoughtful execution. This work is free of any major defect, yet, has room for improvement.
C: Average: Work that is attentively produced and meets the objectives of the course. This work is middle of the road, average work and can benefit from a more vigorous investment in the course content. Weaknesses stand out. Being like most other things you encounter in the world is being average - no better.
D: Below Average: Work that shows only minimal commitment to the goals of the course and only the barest investment of time. This work has defects in all categories.
F: Insufficient: Work that is indicative of a lack of commitment and effort.
LATE WORK
All assigned work is due at the beginning of class on the date specified. It must be uploaded, edited, printed (when applicable), and ready for class critique. Any assignments missed due to an unexcused absence will result in a 0. Any project deadlines and major critiques missed due to an unexcused absence will result in a maximum grade of 50.
Make-up work due to an unplanned excused absence (such as illness, injury, or family emergency) is due 1 day after your return. Any student who has an extended excused absence must communicate with me ASAP to discuss work missed and its deadline.
Make-up work due to a prearranged excused absence is due before you leave. Please see me as soon as possible for a planned excused absence. If absent for sports, your work is to be uploaded to the server or handed in to me by the beginning of class on the due date—please plan ahead and keep in contact with me so as not to fall behind in the course material. Some work may be turned in immediately upon student’s return per my discretion, so long as the student has communicated with me about their absence before hand. Failure to turn in work when it is due will result in a 0 for the project or assignment.
Make-up work due to an excused or unexcused absence will be subject to TMI’s policies found in the Student Handbook. Please review the Student Handbook for a more detailed guide of the school late work policy.
FAILURE TO TURN IN WORK THAT IS NOT ABSENCE RELATED
Any assignments that are not received on the due date will result in a 0. Any projects received after the due date must be turned in on the next school day for a maximum grade of 50. Please remember that camera, computer, or equipment failures are not a valid excuse — always back up your work and leave yourself plenty of time in case of technical errors.
ETIQUETTE
Students should adhere to class and lab rules, should be engaged in the course material and in their projects and project ideas, should turn in projects and assignments fully and on time, should be in class and in their seats at the beginning of class, should ask questions, should support one other’s work, should behave in a respectful and polite manner, and should take risks, work hard, and experiment with new ideas.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
All students are expected to adhere to the TMI Honor code. Any dishonesty in academic work is unacceptable, and will be submitted to the Honor Council for review. This includes plagiarism in artwork: you are expected to create your own work. You are expected to create new work for each assignment. It is unacceptable for you to recycle work from another course or previous assignment.
Additionally, copying another artists' work and representing it as your own constitutes plagiarism, even if you are making minute changes to the work such as color and/or additional line work.
Here is the College Board's statement on ethics, artistic integrity, and plagiarism as defined in their AP Studio Art course description:
"Any work that makes use of (appropriates) photographs, published images, and/or other artists’ work must show substantial and significant development beyond duplication. This is demonstrated through manipulation of the formal qualities, design and/or concept of the source. The students individual “voice” should be clearly evident. It is unethical, constitutes plagiarism, and often violates copyright law simply to copy another artists’ work or imagery (even in another medium) and represent it as one’s own."
RESOURCES FOR MATERIALS
Camera Exchange (San Antonio) — carries required Epson photo paper as well as new and some used cameras
6635 San Pedro
210.349.4400
Precision Camera (Austin) — highly recommended — carries a wide variety of all photography supplies including new and used cameras, lenses, tripods, film, and paper
2438 West Anderson Lane
Suite B-4
512.467.7676
bhphotovideo.com
amazon.com
FINAL NOTE
Photography and art making in general requires time, patience, and hard work. I encourage students to be creative, inquisitive, and courageous in your work. And I cannot stress this enough, TIME MANAGEMENT. Have fun, and welcome to TMI Digital Art!
DUE TUESDAY, 8/22/17 FOR A GRADE:
I have received this syllabus from Mrs. Cooper McCauley, and I have read it thoroughly and entirely. I understand and accept these requirements for Digital Art.
Signature:
Date:
Parent Signature:
Classroom: Ayers A116 (Mac Lab)
Office: A101 in Photo Lab
Office Phone: 210.564.6187
Email: h.cooper@tmi-sa.org
Office Hours: MWF during US Flex Time,
before and after school by appointment
The eye should learn to listen before it looks. - Robert Frank
I really believe there are things nobody would see if I didn’t photograph them. - Diane Arbus
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Digital Art is an introductory course that focuses on digital literacy through image production and composition, primarily utilizing Photoshop and briefly introducing other programs from the Adobe Creative Suite. Students will learn technical aspects of digital media and digital photography including camera function, basic Photoshop processing, image manipulation, digital workflow, and color management. Students will explore visual language in a digital context, and they will learn how to practice reading and thinking critically about the digital messages and imagery they see daily. Students will also be introduced to industry standards of fine-art digital production as well as historic and conceptual aspects of photography, design, and digital imagery.
The first semester of the course will focus on an introduction to photography and the primary software used will be Adobe Photoshop and Bridge. The second semester will utilize Adobe Premiere Pro and InDesign.
Students will be required to keep a digital blog that will serve as their primary portfolio for the class. Digital Art fulfills the prerequisite for Photography I and II, Videography, Yearbook, and Animation classes at TMI.
CLASS WEBSITE www.tmi-photo.com
Our class website is the primary method for communication between instructor and student. This site includes weekly class announcements, assignment parameters and due dates, slideshows, tutorials, and photography resources. It is the student’s responsibility to check the class website often. The syllabus and instructor contact information will also be available on our site.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
- Digital Single Lens Reflex camera (DSLR) with kit lens (18-55mm is typical) —with manual and battery.
- Two SD memory cards for your camera (16 GB or 32 GB)
- USB flash drive of 32GB or higher (two recommended—external hard drive of at least 500 GB strongly recommended if student plans on taking Photography I or II, Videography, or Animation)
- Tripod (not required, but highly recommended. Tripods are available for check-out on a first come, first serve basis.)
- Subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud (not required, but highly recommended)
Adobe Photography Suite is only $9.99 per month for students for Photoshop and Lightroom: http://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/buy/students.html
SUGGESTIONS FOR CAMERAS:
Students must have access to a DSLR camera throughout the entire semester with manual controls and RAW image capture capabilities—other point and shoot cameras will not work for this course due to the nature of instruction and assignments. Students may not share cameras with other students in the same course. Any questions about cameras can be addressed to me via email. Shortly after the start of the school year, we will have a graded in-class camera check to make sure that each students’ camera meets the course criteria.
I recommend the Canon Rebel T6 (18 megapixel with 18-55mm kit lens) or Canon Rebel SL1 (18 megapixel with 18-55mm kit lens). This will cost approximately $400-600 (without accessories) new at Amazon, B&H Photo, or Best Buy (see links below). Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Panasonic also have great DSLR options.
Used options are available on Craigslist or Ebay for under $200.
Canon T6:
https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-Camera-18-55mm-3-5-5-6/dp/B01CO2JPYS/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
Canon SL1:
https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Rebel-Digital-18-55mm-Lens/dp/B00BW6LY2Y/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1502864029&sr=8-5&keywords=canon+sl1
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION AND STUDY
This course is organized around a number of components that introduce specific information or experience:
- Lectures: classroom presentation of course information
- Demonstrations: classroom tutorials and studio/lab demonstrations of technique
- Lab and studio: individual creative work during class lab or on location
- Critique: feedback on projects through individual and class discussion.
- Slide/electronic presentations: photographic history, photographic theory, current issues and practices
- Text and readings, discussion: technique, theory, critique, and context
- Assignments: introduce strategies for creative solutions for course projects
- Conferences: individual and group feedback on in-progress student projects
- Exhibits: opportunities to see finished work in an exhibition context
CLASS RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
Always follow the TMI Honor Code: Because I believe that integrity is essential, I promise not to lie, cheat, or steal.
- Be in class on time.
- Turn in all work (both your projects and any assigned class materials) fully and on time according to the assigned deadlines and critique days.
- No food or drinks in the labs at any time. No chewing gum during class. Failure to comply will result in a demerit.
- Come to class prepared — bring required materials (this usually includes your camera, flash drive, and any assigned work-in-progress). Be ready to participate and engage in the material.
- Show respect. To me, to each other, to yourself, to the lab, to your equipment.
- Do not plagiarize — you will receive an automatic 0 for your assignment in addition to disciplinary action.
- Share your opinions, discuss your work with me and with your classmates, and ask lots of questions about what you do not understand.
- Students should turn off and put away all cell phones during class (unless otherwise specified by me).
- Believe in yourself, your talents, and work to the very best of your ability.
- Photography is about the process of discovery and can be a tremendous tool to engage with and participate in your world. Keep your camera with you and handy at all times!
GRADING
Projects (50%):
Students will shoot, edit, create, and submit projects as assigned throughout the year. These projects are designed to utilize a variety of learned photographic skills and concepts as well as introduce students to thematic ideas that require a deeper level of understanding and intention. The semester will conclude with students producing a comprehensive major project in addition to keeping a personal portfolio blog showcasing their digital work.
Please note: Students will be required to shoot photographs outside of class and on weekends. In-class time will be primarily used for lectures, class discussions, critical analysis exercises, workshops, Photoshop editing, critiquing, and covering other relevant material. It is essential that students have assignment images ready for editing by the given deadline. If not, students will be given an alternate in-class assignment and will receive no credit for the day’s assignment.
Critical Analyses (25%)
Students will write weekly critical analyses on works of photographic art. An image will be published weekly on our class blog. Students will spend time studying the image and then write a detailed analysis of the photograph. They will then publish their analysis as a comment to the blog post; this comment should show the student’s name, time posted, and word count. The analysis must be posted to the original blog post in order to be graded.
Students will write eleven critical analyses during each semester, and the lowest grade per semester will be dropped. A detailed rubric with parameters will be handed out in class.
These analyses are critical to the development of the student artist. By learning to be critical on a variety of photographs, students will learn how to see; that is, they will learn how to dissect an image based on its technical, formal, compositional, and thematic content. Through critical analyses, students will practice giving feedback and formal critiques on their classmates’ digital projects, and they will develop vocabulary and a deeper understanding of visual language and practice.
In-Class Assignments (25%):
These may include:
- Technical exercises on camera handling and Photoshop skills
- Quizzes
- Guided in-class discussions and activities
- Research presentations
- Participation
Grades, assignments, and project details will be uploaded and available for review online, and each student is responsible for checking onCampus regularly. Please see me as soon as possible if you have any questions or concerns about your grade or progress in class.
Grades will be determined by using the following criteria:
Quality:
The success of the images you make is a reflection of the degree of clarity and commitment you put into an idea. Every aspect of your image is a decision. Do not expect good results (or a good grade) through procrastination and last-minute action. However, mistakes do happen and things may fail- do not get discouraged, it is all part of the learning process. Some of the most inspiring works were born out of accidents and frustrations. Use your mistakes to your advantage, but do not use them as a reason for not doing work. Take the failures and rework them into successes.
Quantity:
Creating art is a process of discovery. It requires research into ideas and materials, as well as experimentation to see what excites you. The more you play, the more you think, and the more you work, the better you will become.
Think Hard:
This is an art class. Art is about thinking. Think about your ideas and concepts to make thoughtful images. We see so many pictures everyday. How are you going to make something that holds our attention? It is difficult to do this, so think and work hard.
Technique:
Assignments will be evaluated on the basis of the care and craft you have put into your work, and the technical decisions made to support the content and/or ideas it represents. If you do not care about how your work looks, why should anyone else?
Craft:
A demonstrated ability to use tools and execute techniques. Neatness counts. You will be downgraded for sloppy technique.
Concept:
The inspiration and/or ideas behind the technique, or what your work is about. Making thoughtful photographs is hard work. Push yourself.
Creativity:
The level of innovation exhibited in the execution of craft and concept.
In keeping with the grading policies of what is accepted as a standard at most colleges I assign the following definitions to letter grades. Please note I am not in the habit of inflating grades. You will get the grade you earn.
Grading Criteria
A =Outstanding achievement technically and conceptually. Far above the level necessary to meet the course requirements. The Best. (>, =, 90%)
B= Significantly above the level necessary to meet course requirements. Above average.
(>, =, 80%, < 90%)
C= Satisfies the course requirements (everything required is completed). Average. (>, =,70%, < 80%)
D = Worthy of credit while failing to meet all of the course requirements. Poor. (>, =, 60%, < 70%)
F =Failing to meet course requirements. Unacceptable. (< 60%)
A: Excellent: Work that is of outstanding caliber, exhibiting exceptional comprehension of the material, along with meticulous attention to craft and innovative application of skills. This work is exceptional in every way and is indicative of the highest possible thought and effort. Be prepared to work hard if this is the grade you want to achieve.
B: Above Average: Work that is well done in all respects and exhibits better than average comprehension of material, better than average attention to craft and thoughtful execution. This work is free of any major defect, yet, has room for improvement.
C: Average: Work that is attentively produced and meets the objectives of the course. This work is middle of the road, average work and can benefit from a more vigorous investment in the course content. Weaknesses stand out. Being like most other things you encounter in the world is being average - no better.
D: Below Average: Work that shows only minimal commitment to the goals of the course and only the barest investment of time. This work has defects in all categories.
F: Insufficient: Work that is indicative of a lack of commitment and effort.
LATE WORK
All assigned work is due at the beginning of class on the date specified. It must be uploaded, edited, printed (when applicable), and ready for class critique. Any assignments missed due to an unexcused absence will result in a 0. Any project deadlines and major critiques missed due to an unexcused absence will result in a maximum grade of 50.
Make-up work due to an unplanned excused absence (such as illness, injury, or family emergency) is due 1 day after your return. Any student who has an extended excused absence must communicate with me ASAP to discuss work missed and its deadline.
Make-up work due to a prearranged excused absence is due before you leave. Please see me as soon as possible for a planned excused absence. If absent for sports, your work is to be uploaded to the server or handed in to me by the beginning of class on the due date—please plan ahead and keep in contact with me so as not to fall behind in the course material. Some work may be turned in immediately upon student’s return per my discretion, so long as the student has communicated with me about their absence before hand. Failure to turn in work when it is due will result in a 0 for the project or assignment.
Make-up work due to an excused or unexcused absence will be subject to TMI’s policies found in the Student Handbook. Please review the Student Handbook for a more detailed guide of the school late work policy.
FAILURE TO TURN IN WORK THAT IS NOT ABSENCE RELATED
Any assignments that are not received on the due date will result in a 0. Any projects received after the due date must be turned in on the next school day for a maximum grade of 50. Please remember that camera, computer, or equipment failures are not a valid excuse — always back up your work and leave yourself plenty of time in case of technical errors.
ETIQUETTE
Students should adhere to class and lab rules, should be engaged in the course material and in their projects and project ideas, should turn in projects and assignments fully and on time, should be in class and in their seats at the beginning of class, should ask questions, should support one other’s work, should behave in a respectful and polite manner, and should take risks, work hard, and experiment with new ideas.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
All students are expected to adhere to the TMI Honor code. Any dishonesty in academic work is unacceptable, and will be submitted to the Honor Council for review. This includes plagiarism in artwork: you are expected to create your own work. You are expected to create new work for each assignment. It is unacceptable for you to recycle work from another course or previous assignment.
Additionally, copying another artists' work and representing it as your own constitutes plagiarism, even if you are making minute changes to the work such as color and/or additional line work.
Here is the College Board's statement on ethics, artistic integrity, and plagiarism as defined in their AP Studio Art course description:
"Any work that makes use of (appropriates) photographs, published images, and/or other artists’ work must show substantial and significant development beyond duplication. This is demonstrated through manipulation of the formal qualities, design and/or concept of the source. The students individual “voice” should be clearly evident. It is unethical, constitutes plagiarism, and often violates copyright law simply to copy another artists’ work or imagery (even in another medium) and represent it as one’s own."
RESOURCES FOR MATERIALS
Camera Exchange (San Antonio) — carries required Epson photo paper as well as new and some used cameras
6635 San Pedro
210.349.4400
Precision Camera (Austin) — highly recommended — carries a wide variety of all photography supplies including new and used cameras, lenses, tripods, film, and paper
2438 West Anderson Lane
Suite B-4
512.467.7676
bhphotovideo.com
amazon.com
FINAL NOTE
Photography and art making in general requires time, patience, and hard work. I encourage students to be creative, inquisitive, and courageous in your work. And I cannot stress this enough, TIME MANAGEMENT. Have fun, and welcome to TMI Digital Art!
DUE TUESDAY, 8/22/17 FOR A GRADE:
I have received this syllabus from Mrs. Cooper McCauley, and I have read it thoroughly and entirely. I understand and accept these requirements for Digital Art.
Signature:
Date:
Parent Signature: