Introduction to Digital Photography

Centre for Contemporary Photography (Melbourne)
18-19 February 2012
19-20 May 2012
11-12 August 2012
24-25 November 2015

This introductory weekend course presents a comprehensive overview of the practice and principles of digital photography. It is specifically designed for photographers and artists relatively new to the world of digital imaging, who want a detailed introduction to working with digital SLR cameras. The course covers each stage of digital production, and provides a sophisticated guide to what is involved, what is possible and what is required. Topics covered include:

The First Principles of Digital Photography
• The digital transformation of continuous tone and resolution
• Working with JPEG, TIFF, PSD and RAW file formats
• Understanding image, screen and printer resolution
• File size versus print size: How many pixels do I need?
• Colour profiles: What colour space do I work in?

Working with Digital SLR Cameras
• Aperture and shutter speed priorities
• ISO settings and white balance considerations
• Subject versus camera contrast
• Artificial lighting and fill flash techniques
• JPEG versus RAW workflows

Image Processing
• Which application is right for you?
• Adobe Photoshop versus Adobe Lightroom
• Basic image editing workflows
• Slide shows and online image galleries
• Printing with desktop inkjet printers

Setting up a Digital Imaging Facility
• Minilabs and professional digital laboratories
• Selecting, buying and maintaining digital imaging equipment
• Colour matching from screen to print
• Storing and archiving digital images
• Manuals, textbooks, forums and other sources of information

The course is based on practical explanations and ‘hands-on’ demonstrations, from image capture and processing to digital printing and web galleries. While it is not essential for each participant to own a digital SLR camera, those who do are encouraged to bring it with them. Participants might also enroll in this course to help them decide which equipment best meets their needs, and/or as an introduction to my more advanced courses. Details course notes are provided.