Ecological Photography

DESCRIPTION

This foundation course is designed to introduce and enhance students' knowledge of the fundamentals of photography. Through exploratory and practical knowledge students will discover the importance and impact of a technical methodology within a conceptual framework to deliver effective visual communication with a viewing public. The basics of image creation will be properly understood and polished by students, who will also gain the confidence to apply their newfound knowledge to a variety of photographic circumstances and mediums. We will cover a broad range of fundamental principles, from camera control to composition and creativity. The basic photography skills that will be seen shall provide students with a foundation to grow upon, while strengthening their capabilities to take on photography projects related to their individual needs, whether practical or purely expressive, while emphasizing issues related to nature and ecology.

In addition, students will have the opportunity to explore Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems with the goal of understanding itsimportance and the resourcesthat make it unique. Terms like “Exposure Triangle” “Aperture, Shutter Speed & ISO” and the importance of photography in the processes of environmental conservation will be seen in the course. All the basic needs of using a camera as well as the documentation of the direct damages of development and its corresponding consumerism.

COURSE PRE-REQUISITES
A DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) digital camera that has interchangeable lenses and full
manual control of aperture, shutter speed, depth of field and focus functions is
recommended. It should meet the following criteria: Minimum of 10 megapixels, full
manual control of aperture, shutter speed, focus and flash, capability for interchangeable
lenses, zoom lens (18mm-55mm) (up to 135 mm preferred), Photo tripod, Memory card.
Common “point-and-shoot” and smartphone cameras with fixed lenses (lenses that may
not be removed and changed for other lenses) are not ideal for course use, as they do not
typically offer manual control of basic camera functions or adequate range of aperture
control. This lack prevents users of such cameras from completing required course
assignments.
OPTIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The following items are not required but are recommended to facilitate flexibility,
usability, and protection of your camera:
o Neutral density filter.
o Polarizing filter (Highly Recommended).
o Skylight or UV filter.
o Carrying case.
o Spare Battery.
o Extra SDHC memory cards.
o Photo tripod.
o While you may use any digital camera, please make sure any DSLR camera selected
has manual control of aperture, shutter speed and focus.

COURSE CONTENTS:
TOPIC 1. BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE CAMERA AND FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS OF PHOTOGRAPHY
a) Brief history of photography and its impact.
b) Theoretical foundations of photography (ISO, aperture, shutter speed, exposure
control, depth of field, focal length, overexposed, under exposed, dynamic range etc.).
c) Practical examples of photography.
TOPIC 2. UNDERSTANDING THE BASIS OF PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPOSITION
a) The theoretical and conceptual bases of composition in history.
b) How do we apply the rules of composition and study of the subject in order to obtain
an effective photograph?
c) Practical aspects of photographic composition.23
TOPIC 3. PSYCHOLOGY OF COLOR AND ITS USES IN CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY
a) Implications of color in contemporary photography.
b) The behavior of light, the visible spectrum, human vision.
c) Psychology and color: how can we use color to tell stories.
d) Conscious integration of color in photography.
TOPIC 4. ETHICAL FOUNDATIONS AND LEGALITY OF THE IMAGE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
a) Fundamentals of Copyright in Photography.
b) Photography and the law.
c) Case studies that present ethical-photographic problems.

TOPIC 5. IMPORTANCE OF PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE PROCESSES OF CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT.
a) Fundamentals of ecological photography, conservation photography, tourist
photography and environmental portrait.
b) Raising Awareness through Photography.
c) Aiding Citizen Science-based Research.
d) Influence of photography on conservation processes worldwide.
TOPIC 6. NATIONAL PARKS AND CONSERVATION POLICIES OF COSTA RICA.
a) Brief study of Costa Rica's conservation policies.
b) Analysis of the natural resources of the National Parks of Costa Rica.
TOPIC 7. TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION, BIOETHICS AND SUSTAINABILITY
a) Aspects related to photography and technological advances at the environmental level.
b) Study of bioethical aspects.
c) Implications of sustainability in the development of a country.
TOPIC 8. EDITING SKILLS
a) Essential Lightroom editing.
b) Insider secrets and skills to Photoshop retouching.
TOPIC 9. PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF ECOLOGICAL PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE COSTA RICAN CONTEXT
a) Guided tours to practice ecological photography

LEARNING EVALUATION
Exercises and after class work: (5% each) - 50%
o Long exposure (slow shutter speed).
o Freezing exercises (fast shutter speed).
o Aperture priority.
o Rules of composition.
o Exposure Triangle.
o Street and cultural photography.
o Self-portrait vs. Selfie.
o Conceptual photography.
o Editing with Lightroom.
o Applying Photoshop.
Class work (5% each) - 15%
o Case study analysis – Workshops.
o Participation in class.
o Attendance.

o Investigation: (7% each) - 20%
o Finding and examining the work of a Costa Rican photographer.
o Exposition and presentation of an international photographer who
works in the field of ecological photography and conservation.
o Report on James Nachtway

o Final Project - 15%