Photographing the performance
Gain the essential techniques to photograph live action on stage, from a West End blockbuster to the school play. Learn about equipment requirements, exposure, under stage lighting, composition, and tips for working with performers. Some basic photographic knowledge required.
Key course information
Dates
14/05/12 - 02/07/12
Day(s)
Mon
Duration
7 weeks
Time
14:00 - 17:00
Fees
Full fee: £178
Senior fee: £117
Concession: £83
Venue
PS - Photography Studio
Course code
VY759
Availability
Available
This course has started
It may still be possible to enrol. Please call 020 7831 7831 to discuss. Please note that you will have missed some of the course content and it may not be possible for the tutor to fully cover this with you.
Course outline
What is the course about?
The course is suited for people with an interest in photographing live action on stage and capturing the essence of a performance using available lighting. The emphasis will be on evaluating the photographic needs for any given performance situation and for what purposes the photographs will be used, as well as exploring the creative possibilities when photographing performances.
What topics will we cover?
You will be encouraged to think about the role of the photographer when shooting a performance. As well as the creative aspect of capturing a performance, we will identify the other key purposes of the shots you take in relation to rehearsals, acting, dancing, design, lighting, and direction, as well as how images are used as marketing and publicity tools. Technical considerations include stage lighting types, working with analogue (film) and digital camera, colour and monochrome. We will also discuss the interpersonal skills needed when working within a production team. Photographic projects may include students' own performance events or collaboration with the City Lit Drama department on their forthcoming productions.
By the end of this course you should be able to:
- Produce a set of photographs capturing a performance using the available light.
- Understand the role of production photography within the production process.
- Identify the different elements of a production.
- Choose the appropriate equipment and materials for a given performance situation.
- Produce a selection of prints from coursework for publicity purposes.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Some basic photographic knowledge is required. The course is suited for those students who have some understanding on how to use the manual settings on a digital or film SLR camera, types of lenses and a basic understanding of lighting types. Some knowledge of Photoshop will be useful.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to use numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.
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?
You will be taught via illustrated lectures showing examples of notable stage productions (e.g. The National, RSC, Royal Court, Royal Ballet), as well as workshops, group and individual tutorials, practical exercises and project work.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You will be expected to cover the costs of the materials you use such as printing and photographic materials. You may need to buy up to four rolls of film with processing and printing (you can use colour or black and white). Please bring a camera with manual settings (either film or digital). A tripod is useful but not essential.
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?
You may apply for other specialised photographic courses such as 'Photographing people' or 'Documentary photography' at City Lit.
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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