Grafia
David Shulman
A series of images inspired by various locations in Argentina, Japan, Scotland and the U.S. — each captured with a Nikon D70.
Classes
Digital Imaging: Reset
Keywords
photography, digital, digital imaging
Description
When I decided to take Digital Imaging: Reset, I was convinced I'd learn how to take better artistic shots. However, on our first day of class, our professor told us that the course would, instead, teach us the science of digital photography.
We learned quickly that understanding the science of photography is just as important as appreciating the art of it.
Over the course of the semester, our assigments were straightforward: shoot what we like, but shoot them using the techniques taught in class. We weren't judged or graded on our ability to create beautiful, moving images. Rather, we were tested on our ability to grasp the technical limitations of the camera and camera system, and to take what we had and use it to the best of our and the camera's abilities.
We learned quickly that understanding the science of photography is just as important as appreciating the art of it.
Over the course of the semester, our assigments were straightforward: shoot what we like, but shoot them using the techniques taught in class. We weren't judged or graded on our ability to create beautiful, moving images. Rather, we were tested on our ability to grasp the technical limitations of the camera and camera system, and to take what we had and use it to the best of our and the camera's abilities.
Personal Statement
I've been shooting for many years, but was more of a meandering photographer when I traveled. This semester I finally decided to give myself travel assignments, to see what the results would be.
Audience
There is not a "target audience" per se. Rather, I hope these images appeal to a wide audience.
User Scenario
Like many other photography displays, Grafia is meant to give viewers a sense of my time and space in the various locations I visited.
Implementation
A large-format print — approximately 42" x 62" — with 32 images, each 6x9 in size. If time permits, I will have the print on a pulley system to allows visitors to raise and lower the print, to see all the images.
Conclusion
I learned the importance of truly understanding the science behind digital photography. There's true power in conquering the concepts before looking through the lens. This includes understanding white balance, dynamic range, steading the camera. Apropos of this, one of the most important things we learned is that if a digital camera moves 1 pixel, the resulting image will contain 50% less data — that's like taking a 6.0mp image, only to have the resulting image be 3.0mp.