6+-+Photography+and+Graphic+Manipulation

=Week 6 - Photography and Graphic Manipulation=


 * Resources:**
 * Activity #6-1 Photo Editing
 * Activity #6-2 Podcast with Photos
 * Videos and Readings
 * In-Class Resources

At the end of this Learning Topic, you will be able to:
 * Learner Outcomes:**
 * Create a slide-show presentation of photos you have taken that serve as exemplars for a photography class describing how each photo portrays a rule of composition. (activity 1)
 * Analyze and critique peers’ photo presentations and comment on which elements create high quality photographic communication. (activity 2)
 * Create 5 images from scratch and keep a log of all tools and filters used noting expected and unexpected results. (activity 3).
 * Summarize and apply what you have learned about graphics to the instructional theories TPCK and 21st century skill development. (activity 4)

This unit builds on the Visual Literacy unit from EDTC 605. Teaching students to be visually literate in our very image-rich world is an important skill. Helping learners to create visuals to use in their curricular projects or in school-to-work skill development is critical in the overall scheme of their learning. This unit will present information on both digital photography and graphic editing as it relates to supporting learning in all curricula and also as a specialization for secondary students. The Creative experience and understanding developed from using these tools support the 21st Century skill of creativity.
 * Background/Rationale**

The opportunity to take a photo is readily available in today’s digital world. Most cell phone cameras are more powerful than the first digital cameras released on the market. Our students have the means to take a quick photo from their cell phone or hand held device at any time. It is beneficial to have some understanding of what makes a “Good” photo. Visual composition and content need to be taught in the same way we teach good writing elements. No matter what camera is used the rules of composition remain the same. Assisting students to understand how to use specific cameras lies beyond the scope of this class but it is understood that time should be spent time teaching the features of digital cameras commonly used.

Graphic manipulation was discussed in EDTC 603 (unit 5) as it related preparing graphics for web use. Understanding the value of visuals to enhance communication in conjunction with text and how to create images for a variety of purposes is an art. Introducing graphic skill development throughout the K-12 curriculum is a great way to give students a visual voice and the tools to express their ideas and learning through images. From web-based graphic tools like Picnik and Fotoflexer to open-source Gimp and Gimpshop on to more professional tools like Photoshop students can learn to manipulate photo images they have taken or to create unique images to help them express themselves.