The Ohio Freedom Fighter

Course Syllabus

PHOTOGRAPHING THE HUMAN FORM

ART 295DB – 0001 – 50862

ART 295DB – 0003 – 50863

A two-credit hour Studio Art workshop

Scottsdale Community College - Main Campus

Spring Break 2011

Instructors:

Roger E. Palmenberg and Greg Hunter

Studio Art: ART-295DB Photographing the Human Form – Syllabus

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“It is one thing to take a picture of a stranger. It is a much more difficult thing to make a portrait of a

stranger to whom the viewer will care about.” Paul Strand

“… The role of the photographer in the making of a portrait is to listen and observe, feel and absorb, to

take the time to learn that story before ever unpacking the camera. Caring comes before you can capture

their story on film. In this way of thinking, to make a portrait is to be a blend of translator and

storyteller…’ Brooks Jensen, editor and publisher of ‘Lenswork’

COURSE NUMBER: ART-295DB-0001 50862 (Two credit-hours)

ART-295DB-0003 50863 (Two credit hours)

Studio Art: Photographing the Human Form

INSTRUCTORS: Roger E. Palmenberg and Greg Hunter

TERM: Spring Break – March 14-18, 2010 and Saturday March 19 & 26

CLASSROOM: Art Building - Room AB-133 – Main Campus

PHONE NUMBERS: Art Department, 480-423-6344

Instructor, 602-234-0696 ext 170 (M-F, days)

E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

OFFICE HOURS: By appointment with instructors

COURSE TIME: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM and

Saturday, March 19 & 26, 9:00 AM thru 12:30 PM

PREREQUISITES: ART-138 or ART 140 and permission of the instructors.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The course (workshop) will present a program of instruction to

familiarize participants with concepts to photograph the human form. Participants are

expected to advance their demonstrated skill level in portraiture. The workshop will include

application of the principles of design, lighting, composition, posing, and presentation

techniques to produce a portfolio of five images demonstrating the workshop concepts suitable

for public exhibition. The workshop will provide insight into fine art and commercial

photography.

This is a creative workshop; participants are expected to have a working understanding of the

medium. Expect to be challenged to produce the best images you have ever created.

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


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Portraiture, serious portraiture, is a two-way street connecting the photographer with the

subject. That connection is expressed in the final print and is evident to anyone looking at the

print. Fine art nude photography extends this connection to a higher plane of expression. It is

this level of competence that we will strive to attain. That means it is absolutely necessary for

you to have a more-than-elementary understanding of the technical aspects of photography. If

you are not at that level, you will be expected to make whatever additional efforts are needed to

improve your skills. When that skill level is attained, your focus will be with your subject, not

the mechanics of the process. The results will be dramatic and self-evident.

TEXTBOOKS: None, we will rely on instructor comments and references.

COURSE COSTS: There is a $150.00 fee paid at the time of registration. In addition, expect to

pay for image processing and printing. There are added costs for preparation of the final

portfolio (i.e., matting). Expect to shoot the equivalent of 20 or more rolls of film (50 or more

large format sheets) in the workshop.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Camera (any format), digital or film capture media, tripod, lens

selection. A limited inventory of equipment may be available through the college by prior

arrangement with the instructors. A light meter is good to have.

Work will be produced with participant-provided cameras and with SCC-provided 4x5 view

cameras. A limited inventory of this equipment is available through the college.

We encourage traditional wet process printing using a combination of conventional darkroom

silver-based methods, alternative processes (notably cyanotype), and digital prints (SCC

facilities are not available for digital output). Other methods may be explored as the workshop

progresses. A separate list of participant-supplied items will be provided.

YOUR CAMERA MUST BE ABLE TO UTILIZE OFF-CAMERA STROBE UNITS. THIS CAN BE

DONE WITH A PC SYNCH CORD, RADIO SLAVE, AND/OR PC ADAPTER. BECOME

FAMILIAR WITH THIS FUNCTIONALITY - PRIOR TO THE WORKSHOP.

WITHDRAWAL: As defined in the SCC Student Handbook

ATTENDANCE: Successful in this workshop is all about commitment. Attendance at (and

participation in) the workshop sessions demonstrates commitment. The attendance policy is:

Miss one session – excused for written cause;

Miss the second session – interview with instructor about your commitment;

Miss the third session and you will be dropped.

GRADES: Participation: 40%

Final Portfolio: 40%


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Attendance: 20%

It is not possible to earn an ‘A’ grade without attending and participating in workshop

activities, presenting a critiqued portfolio that shows progression in the art form and

demonstrating a working understanding of the medium.

STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: Participants with special needs who believe they may

need accommodations in this workshop are encouraged to contact the Disability & Services

Office, Building SC-144 (Phone 480-423-6517). It is college policy to provide reasonable

accommodations to students with special needs.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS: This workshop includes use of electronic devices that are

capable of shock or other injury; some of the studio equipment is heavy and could be a lifting

hazard; participants are asked to assist in set preparation including use of step-ladders; there

are tripping hazards; the studio is crowded and often dimly lit. Exercise caution when

performing these tasks and using the equipment. Operating manuals are available, familiarize

yourself with the equipment before using it; if you are not familiar with the equipment, ask and

the instructors will assist.

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT: Course/workshop content and topic sequence may change or be

modified in response to participant needs. Modifications, if any, will be written and distributed

when appropriate to do so.

MODELS: Models are a part of this workshop; the success of the workshop is dependent on

their continuing availability and their positive experience. Every workshop participant is

expected to submit either prints or images in electronic media to the models within one-month.

A sign-up list and blanket model release will be kept for each model as a means to follow-up on

the image production. Submittal of these images is a component of workshop participation.

The blanket model release has mandatory conditions for the use of images produced.

FINAL PORTFOLIO: Participants will produce and display a portfolio of not less than five

prints by the end of the workshop. The portfolio will demonstrate progress in the art form.

Participants will show work-in-progress for class critique throughout the workshop.

The final portfolio must demonstrate familiarity with the various lighting techniques including

electronic flash in the studio (high and low key), ‘hot lights’ in the studio, outdoor (ambient)

lighting, and mixed (ambient and artificial) lighting.

The final portfolio is to be matted prints. You may either print the images yourself or have them

done commercially. Commercial prints must be ‘custom’ grade; ‘machine’ prints are not

acceptable. Prints must be matted, not framed. A single over-mat with backing is acceptable.

Mats can be either white or black. The minimum print (not mat) size is 4x5; the maximum print


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size is 8x10. All matted prints must be the same overall size (11x14 max) and be placed in a box.

Custom folios are also acceptable.

Images produced in the workshop will be assembled into a single self-published book by

participants after the workshop. Participation is optional.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE COLLEGE’S ON-GOING OUTREACH PROGRAMS BY SUBMITTING

A CD WITH YOUR FINAL PORTFOLIO TO ASSIST WITH PUBLICITY.

PUBLIC EXHIBITION: There is a possibility of having a gallery exhibition of the work

produced in the workshop. The location, date, and standards for submittal will be announced

during the workshop if a suitable venue becomes available.

CIVILITY STATEMENT: To establish a positive learning environment for this class,

As the instructors, we are expected to be professional, courteous, respectful, and empathetic to

workshop participants – and to:

Begin and end workshop sessions on time,

Be prepared for each workshop session,

Provide academic feedback and grade assignments in a timely manner,

Be available for individual consultation, and

Clarify assignments and inform participants of any adjustments to the schedule.

As a workshop participant, you are expected to be reflective, courteous, respectful, and

empathetic to other participants, the instructors, models, and other College staff assisting you in

your learning – and to:

Attend the workshop sessions and be on time,

Be prepared for workshop sessions,

Interact with other participants, the instructors, and the models in a harmonious manner

that is conducive to creative work – disruptive, argumentative, or contentious behavior

will not be tolerated and will be the basis for being summarily dropped.

Participate in workshop activities,

Follow instructions and complete assignments,

Keep up with and turn in assignments by the due dates,

Put forth your best effort,

Ask questions when you don’t understand,

Maintain knowledge of your grade status,

Contact the instructors right away about concerns or situations that interfere with your

success in the workshop, and

Comply with policies found in the College catalog and student handbook.


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Please refer to the Scottsdale Community College catalog and Student Handbook which address

specific policies required of all students (and faculty):

Attendance (AR 2.3.2)

Sexual Harassment (AR 2.4.4 & 5.1.8 – 17)

Copyrights (AR 2.4.5 & 3.2)

OUTCOME AND NEEDS ASSESSMENT: Advancing the skill level of workshop participants

through effective teaching and successful learning is an over-arching goal. Progress can be

assessed by comparing images produced at the start of the workshop with those included in the

final portfolio. This comparison is useful through the satisfaction of seeing your work improve;

it is useful for the instructors as a means to refine the syllabus – this win-win system has proven

its merits in the past. The results of this process are documented.

OTHER COMMENTS, WORKSHOP RULES, AND CONDITIONS:

1. The theme of the workshop is photographing the human form. Male and female nude

models will be employed. Workshop participants will explore concepts that take off

from competent portraiture to achieve presentation of the human form in a fine art

context. There will be strict avoidance of work that reflects poor taste or is overly

explicit – some of the finest nude photography ever produced is more sensual for what

is not shown rather than what is<

2. Standards for subsequent use of the work produced will be subject to the terms and

conditions of a blanket model release signed by individual workshop participants prior

to the workshop – this is a mandatory requirement for participation. NO OTHER

MODEL RELEASES WILL BE ALLOWED. Participants and models will receive a copy

of each blanket release.

3. A typical day will include studio sessions with models, lecture demonstration on

techniques, and print critiques. Models will be available for up to four hours per day for

four days. It is neither possible nor desired to utilize the models for additional time. We

strive to maintain an orderly, quiet studio atmosphere conducive to creativity.

4. It is desired to work in black & white using traditional techniques and with the 4x5 view

camera using Polaroid Type 55 film; use of the large format camera assures that the

work is paced and carefully considered. Other capture media – film or digital - will be

allowed as well to maximize your time with the models. Formal presentations will be in

print media. Contact prints will be encouraged.

5. The workshop will facilitate printing with alternative processes (i.e. non-silver)

primarily cyanotype depending on interest; handouts will be provided. We may explore

film scans and digital manipulation, although this is not a part of the current syllabus;

there are several classes at SCC that already provide this instruction.

6. The darkroom facilities at SCC are available for silver printing; the chemistry will be

provided. Bring your own paper.


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7. We will use the studio facilities at SCC for lighting and backdrops. There are three

studio bays available - this means participants will share space. A studio utilizing

natural light will be set up; space outdoors (i.e., the sculpture and ceramic kiln areas) is

also available.

8. If needed, there will be a lottery system to establish a schedule for the individual models

and assigned time slots for workshop participants to assure each participant access to

each model. This also assures time available for printing and processing. Participants

are encouraged to organize themselves into small groups for mutual assistance although

we want to avoid creating cliques.

9. Models are to have a minimum of two participants with them at all times.

10. The workshop will include lectures on technique, presentations of participant work, and

presentation of other artists’ work. Photographers we will be discussing include:

Edward Weston, Ruth Bernard, Robert Mapplethorpe, Joyce Tennison, and others.

11. There will be a limited discussion on historical photography of the human form

including daguerreotypes and pictorialists.

12. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of books on posing and lighting techniques – get one

if you feel you must.

13. This workshop is all about making images; expect to shoot, develop, and print more

than 20 rolls of film (50 or more large format frames), or the equivalent number of digital

images, in order to meet the workshop objectives.

14. The instructors are available on a limited basis to provide darkroom assistance. The

instructors will make additional time available for additional assistance within reason.

15. FINAL NOTE: It is likely there will be a public gallery exhibition of work produced.

Framed images are the preferred medium for the exhibition. The exhibition will be

scheduled at least one-month after the workshop; participation is optional.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. Can I bring in my own model? No, models become part-time employees of SCC prior to

the workshop. And, the limited space and workshop enrollment does not allow added

space that more models would require.

2. Can I hire the models to work overtime? No, the workshop sessions end at 5:00.

3. Can I bring special props to use in my work? No, the preference is for simple sets

utilizing light to sculpt form. Props detract from this. Same for wardrobe.

4. How will the large format photographers be able to work with the digital shooters? It is

intended, make that encouraged, for the participants to organize into small groups and

work together. In this manner, you ought to be able to set up a large format camera and

work alongside the others. It is expected, however, that you are competent with the

large format camera such that your time is spent with the model and not with figuring

out how to set up and work the camera – these tasks are best done outside the studio so

as not to take valuable time away from others.


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5. Can I print at home and not in the workshop? Yes, although your participation with

others including printing has value to everyone. The workshop is all-encompassing –

photographing the models is one component.

6. Is there a textbook? No, we will rely on instructor-provided notes. There are many

books on this subject – buy one you like if you feel you must. It is suggested that any

book you decide to purchase include set diagrams with the images displayed.

7. Can I submit commercial prints? Yes although we encourage you to print at the

workshop. There will be facilities for silver printing as well as alternative process

printing. We do not have access to the SCC computer labs for digital printing.

8. Can I work with the models outside of the workshop? Participants are required to sign

and comply with the requirements set forth in a blanket model release. There is contact

information on the models in the release. The blanket release requirements remain in

force as an agreement between the participant, the model, and the college after the

workshop. Copies of the executed blanket release forms will be distributed to each

participant after the workshop ends.

9. How many models will we have and for how long? There will be four models, four

days, four hours per day - one male and three female. There will be a schedule for each

model – participants will draw time slots using a lottery system to assure equal access to

each model.

10. How will I know if my camera works with studio strobes? Refer to the workshop

prerequisites< Read the camera manual and become familiar with this feature before

coming to the workshop. Practice beforehand! Bring the manual with you!

11. What equipment and supplies do I need? A list is provided with this syllabus (see

below).

12. Should I bring lunch? You decide. The workshop has a one-hour lunch break each day.

The SCC cafeteria is closed; there are fast-food restaurants close by.

13. Can I leave my equipment overnight? You need to evaluate the risk of theft loss on your

own – the college cannot assume responsibility for lost or stolen equipment.

14. How can I prepare myself for the workshop? Be familiar with your equipment, practice

shooting, read on the subject, think through your final image production (i.e., print size,

mats, production process) and bring the materials needed. In-so-far as possible, clear

your schedule so you can focus on the experience to achieve your creative best.

INCLUDED WITH THIS SYLLABUS AT THE START OF THE CLASS ARE THE FOLLOWING:

1. Day-by-day workshop content;

2. Model schedule;

3. Blanket model release and conditions of use agreement;

4. List of participant-provided equipment and materials;

5. SCC Studio Notes – Use of Norman and ProFoto Power Packs


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NOTE:

PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THE FORM TITLED ‘ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT

OF THE COURSE SYLLABUS’ INCLUDED WITH THE COURSE HANDOUTS AT THE

START OF THE WORKSHOP.


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DAY-BY-DAY CONTENT AND CALENDAR

DAY 1: Monday, March 14 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

1. Introductions - instructor and participants;

2. Collect participant names, addresses, and e-mail;

3. Handout course description and schedule, grading policy, review and discuss Final

Project, class performance standards;

4. Discussion and presentation of historical work.

5. Discussion – concepts for photographing the human form. Lighting and set design

work together to complement the model.

6. Discussion and demonstration of studio equipment, studio use, darkroom

availability and use including rules, safety, etc.

7. Discussion on models and model releases; participants to execute model releases.

8. Lecture/demonstration on basic studio lighting (low key set).

9. Question and answer session.

Models will be in the studio in the afternoon.

There will be breaks mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

DAY 2: Tuesday, March 15 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

1. Take attendance, add/drop, e-mail list update;

2. Discussion/demonstration: natural lighting and composition,

3. Studio sessions in groups; the intent is to work with each other on modeling

techniques, studio lighting, metering.

4. One hour lunch break – 12:00 to 1:00 PM

5. Studio session – group or individual with models.


DAY 3: Wednesday, March 16 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

1. Discussion/demonstration: studio lighting and composition,

2. Studio sessions in groups; models arrive at 9:30 (subject to final scheduling – we may

have the models in the afternoons - in this case the daily events will be reversed).



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4. Studio session – group or individual

5. Concurrent printing demonstration.

6. Concurrent critique of work in progress


DAY 4: Thursday, March 17 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM


2. Print preparation,

3. (Optional) Studio sessions in groups (morning or afternoon depending on final

scheduling).


5. (Optional) Studio session – group or individual

6. Concurrent printing demonstration;



DAY 5: Friday, March 18 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM


2. Studio sessions in groups (see comment on scheduling above).


4. Studio session – group or individual

5. Concurrent printing demonstration.


7. Print preparation - matting


DAY 6/7: Saturday, March 19/26 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

1. Presentation of final portfolios;

2. Group critique;

3. Course evaluation;

4. Replace equipment, rearrange studio.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF THE

COURSE SYLLABUS

I, _________________________________________, hereby acknowledge that

I have received a copy of the course syllabus for the Studio Art workshop

ART 295DB-0001/0003 Photographing the Human Form for the Spring 2011

semester at Scottsdale Community College (Main Campus). The course

instructors were Roger E. Palmenberg and Greg Hunter.

_______________________________________ _______________

(Signature) (Date)

______________________________________

(Print Name)

Documents

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