Les Walkling - Introduction to Digital Photography
Introduction to Digital Photography
16-17 August 2008
This weekend course presents a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of digital photography. It is specifically designed for photographers and artists relatively new to the world of digital imaging, who want a comprehensive introduction to working with digital SLR cameras and Adobe Photoshop™. Each stage of digital photography is carefully investigated from basic concepts to professional working methods. The course 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
• Understanding image, screen and printer resolution
• File size versus print size: How many pixels do I need?
• JPEG, TIFF, PSD and RAW file formats: What format do I save my images in?
• Colour Profiles: What colour space do I work in?
Working with Digital SLR Cameras
• Subject versus camera dynamic range
• Aperture/shutter speed priorities
• ISO settings and white balance considerations
• Key lights, fill lights, lighting ratios and fill flash techniques
• Digital camera colour gamut comparisons
An introduction to Adobe Photoshop™
• Setting up Photoshop
• Choosing and working with the right tools
• Basic image editing workflows
• Printing with desktop inkjet printers
• Printing with minilabs and professional digital laboratories
Setting up a Digital Imaging Facility
• The digital darkroom and studio
• Designing, buying and maintaining a computer for digital imaging
• Choosing the most appropriate printer, camera and/or scanner
• Storing and archiving digital images
• Manuals, textbooks, discussion groups and other sources of information
The course is based around practical examples and hands-on demonstrations. While it is not essential for each participant to own a digital SLR camera, those who do are encouraged to bring it to the workshop. Participants might also enrol in this course to help them decide which equipment best meets their needs, or as an introduction to my more advanced courses. Course notes and bibliography are provided.
