Course aims
The course challenges students to explore questions surrounding the applications of both traditional silver processes and digital technologies. Photographic production is evaluated and at the same time, the still image is studied in relation to both the moving image and newer interactive technologies. In addition to lectures, seminars and practical workshops, the teaching programme facilitates critical discussion and analysis of student work, both in the form of individual tutorials and group critiques and develops an understanding of the place of photographic work within leisure, commercial and cultural contexts.
Special course features
Excellent traditional and digital specialist facilities
Research active teaching staff
Talks by visiting artists and art professionals
Fine art and commercial approaches to photography
Course content
The course encourages exploration of the photograph within practices such as art and independent photography, editorial, product, services and industry, performance and entertainment and communications. Encouraging progressivley independent learning, the course will include the development of working to client commissions, personal research methods and the study of photography in a variety of contexts and across a range of genres.
Stage one
Introduction to processes and techniques of photography (from the use of a 35mm camera, digital SLR to medium and large format photography, studio and location shooting and working in both the wet and dark rooms) and the consideration of the different conceptual approaches to photography, supported by theory lectures alongside fine art students.
Stage two
Development of a body of practical work around both fine art and commercial applications, supported by theory lectures on the place of photography within a variety of genres and the production of a folder of career development information.
Stage three
Consolidation of practical work, culminating in an exhibition and either a shorter dissertation and a professional development folder, or a longer dissertation for those with strengths in critical writing.
Typical modules include
Critical photographic practice
Lens-based images – archive/collection
Photography and design for communication
Photographic images in visual culture
Photography in arts practice
Photographic media – conceptual development
Photographic truth – photographic fiction
Practice exhibition
Understanding the visual
Career opportunities
A wide range of career opportunities exist in the commercial and public sector, marketing, public relations and specialised fields. Graduates can develop their practice as independent artists and pursue collaborations, commissions, publication and exhibition opportunities, or in postgraduate study. MA in the Arts (Fine Art) or (Curatorial Studies) are offered as progression in the School of The Arts.