Students will develop creative problem-solving and composition skills by transforming unappealing or unconventional environments into compelling photographic settings. They will use lighting, props, and storytelling to elevate their subjects and demonstrate how strong visuals can emerge from any scenario.
I will apply composition rules such as framing, depth, leading lines, and balance to create visually strong images—even in “ugly” locations.
I will learn how to work with harsh or imperfect lighting, adapting natural and artificial light sources to enhance my subject.
I will use props and posing techniques to shift focus, hide distractions, or reframe my environment creatively.
I will practice photographing in real-world, uncontrolled environments, including obtaining permission to shoot in public or commercial spaces.
I will focus on storytelling, capturing a clear message or emotion that connects the viewer to the subject, regardless of location.
I will reflect on how environment and limitation influence creativity, learning how to turn challenges into visual opportunities.
I will present a final photo or series that demonstrates technical skill and storytelling, and explain how I transformed a difficult setting into a strong image.
2.1.5 Practice ethical and legal use of social media and online platforms
3.1.3 Incorporate color, line, shape, texture, form, space and value in photograph
3.2.3 Incorporate balance, contrast, rhythm, repetition, movement, variety, emphasis, and unity in photographs
3.3.1 Identify and apply guidelines for composition (e.g. simplicity, rule of thirds, point of view, focal point, proportion/scale, framing, etc.)
3.3.2 Use critical thinking skills to describe, interpret, analyze, and make judgments about composition
3.4.1 Communicate a specific idea or narrative through photographic imagery
4.1.4 Demonstrate proper handling of a digital camera
4.1.5 Navigate menus of digital cameras
4.2.2 Compare and contrast the relationship between focal length and shutter speed for handheld versus monopod/tripod based photography
5.1.4 Calculate exposure equivalents
6.3.4 Utilize light modifiers to adjust the quality of light
7.2.2 Demonstrate nondestructive editing techniques using digital imaging software
8.1.1 Critique work with constructive criticism
Students will apply these skills with proper camera's that are either supplied by themselves or by the teacher. They will then demonstrate their photoshop skills in class in Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.