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Course Description

Summary

This studio/ seminar explores historical and contemporary practices in photographic portraiture, considering how photographers negotiate their relationships with their subjects and reflect on notions of identity. Assignments invite students to explore formal and conceptual strategies while readings provide theoretical context and encourage critical thinking about questions of truth, access, trust, and power. Written assignments will also be required. Class time will include slide presentations, group critiques and discussions. While not primarily a technical course, some basic instruction in studio lighting will be provided. Self-directed final projects will allow students to creatively demonstrate their conceptual and technical skills as they explore their own questions and concerns. Students are not required to purchase any specific equipment or materials for this course, though some may find it necessary to purchase supplies to realize individual projects. It is expected that students have a secure way of transporting and storing their digital files outside of the VAPA server.