The origins of documentary photography
Through an illustrated lecture and discussion explore the origins of documentary photography from the late 20th century to the1930s. Learn how this period influenced documentary photography today.
Key course information
Date
16/10/11
Day(s)
Sun
Duration
1 week
Time
10:30 - 16:30
Fees
Full fee: £54NC
Venue
PS - Photography Studio
Course code
VY814
Availability
This course has finished
NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.
This course has finished
Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700
Course outline
What is the course about?
The course will examine the development of documentary photography and photojournalism (1860s to 1939) in Europe and the USA and its influences, including social, political and economic factors.
What topics will we cover?
You will consider the development of popular photography, travel photography and street photography in the late 19C in Europe and the USA and their influence on early documentary photography. You will explore the development of documentary photography and photojournalism during the 1920s and 1930s, including the work of August Sander, Bill Brandt, Humphrey Spender, Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans. You will look at the uses that images were put to, including in Mass-Observation in Britain, The Farm Security Administration (FSA) in the USA and in the Worker Photography Movements, as well as how photographs were used in the popular illustrated press. You will consider how social, political and economic factors influenced the development of documentary photography, including during the 1920s and 1930s.
By the end of this course you should be able to:
- Identify images taken during the late 1920s and 1930s in Britain and the USA.
- Identify early 19C influences on the tradition of documentary photography.
- Identify photographers working in the documentary tradition in the 1920s and 1930s.
- Locate the development of documentary photography in a social, political and economic context.
- Recognise the influence that early documentary photography has had on contemporary photography.
- Demonstrate an ability to think critically about documentary images.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is suitable for any level and anyone interested in the history of photography.
You should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, hand-outs and health and safety
information and will be invited to take part in group discussion.
Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
An Illustrated lecture/seminar, group work and discussion.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No.
Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?
No.
What feedback will I get?
You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.
How will I be able to give my views on the course?
Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.
How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?
You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.
Who can I contact for further information?
Tel: 020 7492 2700
visualarts@citylit.ac.ukPlease email us for advice or call us during these times:
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00
Thursdays - 9.00-12.00
Saturdays - 14.00-17.00
To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.
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Visual arts
Tel: 020 7492 2700
Please email us for advice or call us during these times:
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00
Thursdays - 9.00-12.00
Saturdays - 14.00-17.00
To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.
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