Curro

Through the Lens:

A Young Photographer’s Journey

Course Description:

This course is designed to introduce primary school students to the exciting world of photography. Through hands-on activities, creative projects, and engaging discussions, students will learn the fundamentals of photography, develop their visual literacy, and express their unique perspectives through the lens.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

Understand basic photography concepts, such as composition, lighting, and focus.
Operate a digital camera or mobile device camera with confidence.
Apply creative techniques to capture compelling images.
Develop visual storytelling skills through photography.
Appreciate and analyze photographs from various genres and styles.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Photography (2 sessions)

What is Photography? Understanding the concept of capturing light and creating images. Exploring different types of photography (portraits, landscapes, still life, etc.). Discussion: What makes a photograph interesting?
Camera Basics Familiarizing with camera parts and functions (lens, shutter, button, flash). Basic camera handling and safety tips. Activity: Camera scavenger hunt to explore different features.

Module 2: Composition and Design (4 sessions)

Rule of Thirds Understanding and applying the rule of thirds for balanced compositions. Activity: Taking photos using the rule of thirds in various settings.
Leading Lines Using lines to guide the viewer’s eye and create depth in images. Activity: Finding and photographing leading lines in the school environment.
Framing and Perspective Using natural and man-made elements to frame subjects. Experimenting with different viewpoints and angles. Activity: Taking photos from high, low, and unique perspectives.
Color and Texture Exploring the use of color and texture to enhance visual appeal. Activity: Capturing photos with vibrant colors and interesting textures.

Module 3: Light and Shadow (3 sessions)

Natural Light Photography Understanding how natural light affects images. Shooting outdoors in different lighting conditions (sunny, cloudy, shade). Activity: Taking photos using natural light at different times of day.
Artificial Light Photography Exploring the use of flash and other artificial light sources. Understanding the effects of different lighting techniques. Activity: Taking photos using flash and experimenting with light direction.
Shadow Play Using shadows to create dramatic and artistic effects. Activity: Finding and photographing interesting shadows in the environment.

Module 4: Depth of Field (4 sessions)

The exposure triangle – what determines a good exposure
ISO – film speed/sensor sensitivity
Aperture – determining the amount of light
Shutter speed – determining the exposure time

Module 5: Storytelling Through Photography (3 sessions)

Visual Storytelling Understanding how to convey narratives through images. Using composition, lighting, and subject matter to tell a story. Activity: Creating a photo series that tells a short story.
Photojournalism Exploring the power of photography to document real-life events. Analyzing examples of photojournalistic images. Activity: Capturing photos that document a day in the life at school.
Portrait Photography Capturing expressive portraits of people. Understanding posing, background, and lighting for portraits. Activity: Taking portraits of classmates and teachers.

Module 6: Photo Editing and Presentation (2 sessions)

Basic Photo Editing Introduction to simple photo editing tools and techniques. Cropping, adjusting brightness and contrast, Activity: Editing photos using online or mobile editing apps.
Photo Presentation Exploring different ways to present and share photos. Creating photo albums, slideshows, and online galleries. Activity: Preparing a photo exhibition to showcase student work.

Assessment:

Student learning will be assessed through:

Participation in class discussions and activities.
Completion of photography assignments and projects.
Presentation of final photo portfolios.

Materials:

Digital cameras or mobile devices with cameras.
Tripods (optional).
Photo editing software or apps.
Printing materials (optional).
Display materials for photo exhibition.

Practical:
This course is supplemented with half day/day outings implementing learned techniques.

About the Presenter:

Louis is a seasoned photographer with his award-winning experience dating back to 1973. Apart from his practical background he is the holder of a recognized Diploma in Photography. He therefore lives his favourite expression: “There is nothing as practical as a sound theory”.

Louis acted as photographer for various publications and events. This includes the “Die Burger” newspaper and the George Herald. He was the social photographer at the KKNK 3 years running and also currently the official photographer for George Parkrun and the George Agricultural Show.

Louis also taught on various levels and is a qualified facilitator, making him a perfect fit presenting this course.

Louis and his wife Lana run Exposure Photography covering all occasions, studio and on location shoots.