In conjunction with an exhibition at Mornington Regional Gallery students were required to create an 'arty' portrait. Some students had their portraits exhibited at the Gallery and were able to take part in an official exhibition opening.
A range of discussions took place which explored the difference between a 'snapshot' and an 'artwork'. The discussions then focused on aesthetic considerations, like:
Angles that photographs can be taken at.
Lighting sources which could be explored.
How you place yourself in the picture frame.
The depth of field which could be used and how this may impact on the meaning and message in the artwork.
How props or the environment may provide an insight into the person and their interests.
The task was quite open-ended, encouraging students to explore a range of software programs in the development of their portrait.
Here are some of the guidelines set:
What you can use: 1)This is to be produced as a digital photographic piece and therefore you can use your laptop camera or any other type of digital camera. The file must be imported onto your laptop so that you can addsome ‘extra’ touches onto your photo.2) You can repeat your photo. 3) You can show any aspect of yourself or multiple views of yourself. 4) You can ‘enhance’ or manipulate your picture using any additional programs. For instance: Photoshop Elements, Artrage or Paint. (You can use these in combination with each other as well). 5) Consider any ‘props’ you may wish to include. 6) Consider ‘where’ you may take the photo or photos. For instance you can use mirrors as they are great for reflections! Maybe you would only see yourself as a reflection. 7) Consider whether you would show yourself in the forefront of the photograph or in the background.8) Consider interesting lighting effects by opening curtains, blinds etc on yourself when the photograph is being taken.
- Angles that photographs can be taken at.
- Lighting sources which could be explored.
- How you place yourself in the picture frame.
- The depth of field which could be used and how this may impact on the meaning and message in the artwork.
- How props or the environment may provide an insight into the person and their interests.
The task was quite open-ended, encouraging students to explore a range of software programs in the development of their portrait.Here are some of the guidelines set:
What you can use:
1) This is to be produced as a digital photographic piece and therefore you can use your laptop camera or any other type of digital camera. The file must be imported onto your laptop so that you can add some ‘extra’ touches onto your photo.2) You can repeat your photo. 3) You can show any aspect of yourself or multiple views of yourself. 4) You can ‘enhance’ or manipulate your picture using any additional programs. For instance: Photoshop Elements, Artrage or Paint. (You can use these in combination with each other as well). 5) Consider any ‘props’ you may wish to include. 6) Consider ‘where’ you may take the photo or photos. For instance you can use mirrors as they are great for reflections! Maybe you would only see yourself as a reflection. 7) Consider whether you would show yourself in the forefront of the photograph or in the background.8) Consider interesting lighting effects by opening curtains, blinds etc on yourself when the photograph is being taken.