Trent University - Continuing Education

Photography is more popular today than ever before. Almost everyone has access to a smart phone camera that is easy to use. Yet, on social media the shear number of photographs being consumed is ordinary and largely uninspiring. Exceptional photographs become even more important today because they stand out amongst all the ordinary images that are viewed on a daily basis. People are still drawn to good, exceptional photographs because they stand out amongst all the visual noise. One of the great impediments to making a good photograph is the fact that many of today’s photographers do not consume, and study images created by master photographers. A photographer can improve their skill set by reviewing and learning about these historical and renown images.

This six-week course will teach you how to achieve exceptional photographs. It goes beyond the pure technical knowledge of how to make an adequate photograph and concentrates on putting emotion and impact in your images. Techniques such as the study of successful images, developing projects, persistence, and techniques of editing amongst others will be discussed to elevate the photographer’s abilities. The only perquisite of this course is for the photographer to be competent technically in the operation of their camera. No technical advice will be given on camera operation. Instead, the focus will be on discussing techniques to help you create and determine which of your images are the best and how to make images that stand out from the crowd.

State of Photography today

Difference between good and bad photography

What types of still photographs command attention

Three types of Photographs

Techniques and Ways to be Self Directed and Persistence.

Difference between making and taking photographs.

How to create series and projects

Importance and Understanding of Light

Editing Techniques

Constructive criticisms and being humble.

Constructive review of 5 photographs from each participant

A brief history of photography

Work of master photographers

Beyond Perfection, Emotions and Gestures

Reviewing the work of a master photographer chosen by each participant

Importance of People in photographs

Street Photography a complete guide

Simplifications and Constraints

Portfolio Review Techniques

Group Portfolio Critiques for each participant of their best photographs

How to Create Layers of Interest and Ambiguity in photographs

Review and lessons from bad photographs.

Importance of printing and methods to print photographs.

Creating an Exhibition

Variety of Genres

Childlike passion

Final pearls of wisdom