Photographics 10, Photography 20, 30 and Graphic Arts 20, 30

Module 18: Critiquing Photographs (Core)

Suggested time: 3-5 hours
Level: Introductory
Prerequisite: None

Foundational Objectives

To critique photographic work as a means of evaluation.
To practise good photographic techniques .
To increase self-confidence through success with photography.

Common Essential Learnings Foundational Objectives

To participate in activities that focus on critiquing skills as they relate to photography. (CCT, PSVS)
To demonstrate skills and attitudes that contribute to the development of positive human relationships. (IL)
To develop students' abilities to access and apply knowledge to photographic critiques. (CCT)

Learning Objectives	Notes
18.1 To understand the importance of a critique. (PSVS)	In order for students to develop and to improve the quality of their work, conducting and valuing a critique is a very important skill and a goal of this course. It is important that the students understand the value of accepting a critique of their work and of providing one for other students.
18.2 To list elements to examine when conducting a critique. (CCT)	Direct students to look for elements of composition, contrast, over-all presentation, clarity of subject, special effects, and other technical details. Personal subjective feelings, aesthetic appeal and how the photograph affects one as the viewer are important to an effective critique. Include other ideas that will help to improve the work of the photographer. For example, provide technical hints to make effective short cuts.
18.3 To conduct a photograph critique. (CCT)	The skilled critic will be positive in the evaluation of the work examined. A written comment attached to the critique makes a personal statement about the photograph to the photographer. A sample form that might be some helpful in conducting a critique is included in Appendix D. It is important to make brief written notes as the critique is conducted. If viewing is in a gallery setting, it may be more appropriately done verbally with a group. To reinforce the importance of doing a frank critique, evaluate the student's critiquing skill and the care he or she takes to do a meaningful critique for other students in the class.
18.4 To develop skill as a photographer through the use of critiques. (IL, PSVS)	After doing a critique session have the students discuss the results and the possible changes that they would make to improve their photographs.

Module 19: Professional Presentation Portfolios (Core)

Suggested time: 5-10 hours
Level: Intermediate
Prerequisite: None

Foundational Objectives

To explore a variety of presentation formats that photographers use to display work.
To consider career development opportunities related to photography.

Common Essential Learnings Foundational Objectives

To participate in effective presentations. (IL)
To develop and maintain a portfolio of photographs for a variety of presentation formats. (COM)

Learning Objectives	Notes
19.1 To know the uses and purposes of a presentation portfolio. (COM)	Students need to recognize the importance of building a presentation portfolio of their accomplishments, to illustrate the work they do in the class. Many post-secondary institutions require a presentation portfolio as part of the program entrance requirements. There is a section in at the beginning of this guide that discusses the various types of portfolios; it may be helpful when this module is taught. For further information on personal career portfolios see the Career Work Exploration Curriculum Guide, 10, 20, A30, B30, Modules 2A, 2B. The Arts Education Curriculum Guide 10, 20, 30 also contains information relevant to presentation portfolio development.
19.2 To select the materials to compile in a presentation portfolio. (IL)	Have students review different types of portfolios to determine what the contents of their presentation portfolios should include. The presentation portfolio should reflect the most current and best work the student has produced for the course. The presentation portfolio will need to be updated on a regular basis.
19.3 To maintain a presentation portfolio and journal of photographs. (COM, TL, CCT)	Descriptions of the technical aspects of each piece could be recorded in a journal describing the camera, film type, shutter speed, aperture, geographic location, special treatment, etc. Reflective writing about the subject, the mood that was attempted, successes and failures of each piece of work should also be recorded and included in the presentation portfolio. The student's presentation portfolio should include examples that demonstrate the various assignments completed in the course. Students also need to learn to tailor a portfolio presentation to meet the need of a specific client. Have the students do presentations of their portfolio for other members of the class. This will help to develop self-confidence and improve their ability to speak confidently in an interview situation.
19.4 To share the presentation portfolio with classmates.	Students could critique each other's presentation portfolios and brainstorm ways to make them stronger.