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Term: 25_0201_OL
Credits: 3
Delivery Method: ONLINE LMS
Instructor: Ton Schless
Meeting Times: Scheduled Live Critique Sessions, TBD
Class Location: N/A
Prerequisites: PHO 601 History of Photography II, PHO 610 Photography Concepts
Corequisites: None
Module 1: Introduction to Course and Portfolio Goals
Overview: The first week of Concept and Portfolio Development introduces the course structure, objectives, and expectations. It is designed to help you get acquainted with the conceptual and technical framework that will guide your journey toward creating a cohesive, professional portfolio. You will explore foundational ideas surrounding portfolio development, conceptual art, and the relationship between theory and practice.
Key Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the course structure, expectations, and evaluation criteria.
2. Begin to explore the concept of portfolios as a technical presentation tool and a reflection of artistic identity.
3. Gain a foundational understanding of conceptual art and how it relates to photography.
4. Develop an initial artist vision outlining your current creative focus.
In this week’s discussion, you will introduce yourself and your work, and we will begin by considering what makes a portfolio strong, engaging, and professional. This will lay the groundwork for the development of your own portfolio throughout the course. You will also write an initial vision statement reflecting your creative and artistic focus.
Overview: The first week of Concept and Portfolio Development introduces the course structure, objectives, and expectations. It is designed to help you get acquainted with the conceptual and technical framework that will guide your journey toward creating a cohesive, professional portfolio. You will explore foundational ideas surrounding portfolio development, conceptual art, and the relationship between theory and practice.
Key Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the course structure, expectations, and evaluation criteria.
2. Begin to explore the concept of portfolios as a technical presentation tool and a reflection of artistic identity.
3. Gain a foundational understanding of conceptual art and how it relates to photography.
4. Develop an initial artist vision outlining your current creative focus.
In this week’s discussion, you will introduce yourself and your work, and we will begin by considering what makes a portfolio strong, engaging, and professional. This will lay the groundwork for the development of your own portfolio throughout the course. You will also write an initial vision statement reflecting your creative and artistic focus.
Syllabus Overview:
The syllabus, POH 612 Concept, and Portfolio Development Syllabus outlines the key components of the course, including weekly modules, assignments, readings, and the final portfolio presentation. Understanding the course expectations and schedule will help you stay organized and on track.
Module 1: Introduction to Concepts
Concept development in photography extends beyond capturing visually striking images; it involves expressing deeper ideas, emotions, and reflections—whether personal, societal, or abstract. In fine art photography, the concept plays a vital role in guiding the creative process, shaping how photographers approach their subjects, compositions, and storytelling. This section will explore the significance of the concept in fine art photography and how to integrate theory into your photographic practice.
Watch Flore Zoé’s TED Talk: Concepts in Photography
Conceptual thinking is crucial when planning your shoots or curating your portfolio. Before capturing images, clearly understanding the themes or messages you wish to convey allows for more intentional and meaningful work. These concepts can stem from personal experiences, cultural critique, or broader philosophical ideas. By clarifying these intentions, you will be better equipped to make creative choices that align with your vision, such as how to frame a subject, manipulate light, or create a sequence that tells a coherent story.
Another key element of concept development is the role of research. Research is essential to deepen your understanding of your subject matter and add layers of meaning to your work. It can range from studying your subject’s historical and cultural context to delving into artistic movements, philosophy, or contemporary issues that resonate with your themes. Research informs your practice and provides a foundation that enriches the narrative or commentary in your photography. Throughout the course, you will learn to incorporate research into your creative process to develop intellectually and visually compelling concepts, enhancing your portfolio’s overall impact.
Module 1: Portfolios
A portfolio is a collection of your best work and a curated presentation reflecting your artistic voice and vision. A successful portfolio demonstrates technical skill, thematic coherence, unity, and a clear conceptual framework.
Watch the Yip Michaela TED talk, Yip Michaela TED Talk
Watch the TEDxBellarmineU video, TEDxBellarmineU
· Evolving Nature of a Portfolio: Your portfolio is not a static entity. As you grow as an artist, your portfolio should evolve to reflect new directions, influences, and technical skills. Week 1 will lay the foundation for thinking about your portfolio as a living document that represents your current creative focus and artistic evolution.
Module 1: Conceptual Art and the Intersection Between Theory and Practice
Photography, especially in the fine art context, often sits at the intersection of theory and practice. Conceptual art challenges what art can be by prioritizing the idea behind the work over the final aesthetic.
· Conceptual Photography: In conceptual photography, the idea or concept behind the work is often more important than the visual appeal. This work might involve staged images, constructed environments, or found objects and frequently engages with broader cultural, philosophical, or political questions.
· Theory and Photography: Understanding fundamental theories in art and photography can deepen your engagement with your work. Concepts such as semiotics (the study of signs and symbols), identity politics, and the gaze theory influence how photography is viewed and critiqued. These theoretical frameworks will be introduced in Week 1 to help you begin thinking about your work through a critical lens.
Module 1: Reading
Reading: Bruce Barnbaum, The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression, Chapter 1: Communication Through Photography
Summary: Chapter 1 of Bruce Barnbaum’s The Art of Photography introduces photography as a form of communication. Barnbaum emphasizes that photography, like any other art form, is about more than technical mastery—it’s about expressing an idea, emotion, or narrative. The chapter explores how photographers can use their work to engage with viewers on an emotional or intellectual level.
Key Concepts:
· Intentional Communication: Photographers must be clear about what they want to communicate through their images. Whether the goal is to evoke a feeling, tell a story, or make a political statement, the photos should be intentionally crafted to serve that purpose.
· Understanding the Audience: Barnbaum discusses the importance of knowing your audience and how that influences your choices as a photographer. Different audiences may interpret the same image differently, so photographers should be mindful of how their work will be perceived.
· Personal Expression: The chapter also delves into the importance of finding your voice as a photographer. While it’s important to study other artists and understand the history of photography, Barnbaum encourages photographers to develop a personal style that reflects their unique perspective.
Relevance to the Course: This reading will help you begin thinking about how your work communicates with an audience and your voice as a photographer. As you build your portfolio, these communication and personal expression questions will be central to your work.
Module 1: Conclusion
By the end of Week 1, you will have a clear understanding of the course structure and expectations, and you’ll have begun to explore the relationship between concept and photography. You will have written an initial artist statement and shared your work with the class, reflecting on what makes a strong, cohesive portfolio. This week lays the groundwork for the deeper exploration of portfolio development that will take place over the next several weeks.
Module 1: Discussion: Introduction
Introduce yourself and share a sample of your work with the class. Discuss what you think makes a strong portfolio. What key elements differentiate an excellent portfolio from a great one? How can a photographer’s concept and technical skill contribute to a cohesive, powerful portfolio?
This discussion will be a chance to get to know your peers, share your initial thoughts on portfolio development, and begin reflecting on your work’s strengths and areas for growth. It will also help you consider how your portfolio fits the broader photography and conceptual art conversation.
Please post your Discussion before the due date and give feedback to at least three peers before the feedback due date. See the syllabus and calendar for due dates.
Purpose
This assignment is just for you to practice professionally formulating your thoughts about the topic.
Submission Directions
Please post your 150–200-word discussion in the text field provided.
Due Date
This assignment is due by the end of this module.
Provide feedback to at least three peers as per department policy. (See the Syllabus)
Adhere to the RMCAD Department of Photography Assignment Submission Standards
Module 1: Assignment: Artistic Vision
Write a 1-page (200-300 words) vision outlining your current creative focus. This statement should briefly overview the themes, ideas, and concepts you explore in your work and any influences or motivations guiding your artistic practice.
Guidelines:
· What to Include: Your statement should address the core of your creative practice. Consider questions like: What subjects do you explore in your photography? What themes or concepts are central to your work? What drives you to create? You might also touch on any technical or stylistic choices you make in your work and how they reflect your conceptual focus.
· Tone and Clarity: Aim for clarity and conciseness. This is an introduction to your work and should give the reader a sense of who you are as an artist without being overly complex or academic.
· Relevance to Your Portfolio: This artist statement will serve as the foundation for the final version accompanying your completed portfolio at the end of the course. While your focus may evolve over the semester, this initial statement will help you articulate your current goals and vision.
Purpose
This assignment is just for you to explain your artistic motivations clearly.
Submission Directions
Please post your 200–300-word description in the text field provided.
Due Date
This assignment is due by the end of this module.
Provide feedback to at least three peers as per department policy. (See the Syllabus)
Adhere to the RMCAD Department of Photography Assignment Submission Standards.