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PHOTO ASSIGNMENT #1:
JOY OF MOVEMENT

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Capturing the Joy of Movement Through Photography: In-Depth Guide

 

Introduction: Capturing the essence of human movement and joy through photography is a creative and rewarding endeavor. To help you understand this concept better, here are more detailed explanations, video examples, an icebreaker exercise, and a worksheet to explore why movement brings joy in the context of photography.

 

 Understanding the Concept:

  • Video Examples 1: Discuss with a partner the significance of the first dance video? What is the relationship between the dancer and the bird?

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  • Video Example 2: Discuss with a partner the new dance called the "

    Memphis Jook? What is unique about this innovative dance process? What are your thoughts about inventing your own unique form of movement?

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  • Video Example 3 & 4: Finding Flow In Movement! What is something you do in life which gives you a sense of flow? What are the similarities between the skating and the Tai Chi?

  • Video Example 4: Explore this powerful podcast on the power of movement in relation to our happiness in life? What are three things you learned from this podcast and photo assignment? Discuss with 

    partner, shoot photos and capture your overall reflections through video or podcast?

 

Icebreaker Exercise: The Joy of Movement

  • Capture a series of 50 photos with the intention of keeping 5-10 shots that you are stoked with!  Have fun showcasing the simple joys of movement in our daily life.

  • This could include walking, jumping, running, posing in motion, laughter, dance...

  • Experiment with different camera settings, such as shutter speed and composition techniques, to emphasize the movement and joy in your shots.

  • Review your photos and reflect on what elements make these moments feel joyful, dynamic and visually interesting!

 

Worksheet: Why Movement Gives Us Joy in Photography

 

The Joy of Movement in Photography

Instructions: Reflect on the following questions and fill in your responses.

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  1. What does "movement" mean to you in the context of photography?​

  2. Why do you think movement is often associated with joy in photographs?

  3. How can camera techniques like freezing motion or using motion blur affect the emotional impact of a photograph?

  4. Give an example of a famous photograph that captures the joy of movement. What elements make it successful?

  5. Think about your icebreaker exercise. What did you learn about capturing the joy of movement in everyday life?

  6. How can you apply what you've learned about movement and joy in photography to future projects?

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Conclusion: Reflecting on these questions will deepen your understanding of why movement is so often associated with joy in photography. Use this knowledge to enhance your skills and create more powerful and emotionally resonant images.

Note: When watching the video examples, pay attention to how photographers use composition, lighting, and timing to capture the essence of movement and joy in their subjects. These insights can be valuable in your own photographic endeavors.

RULE OF THIRDS, LEADING LINES AND SYMMETRY!

PHOTO ASSIGNMENT #2

1. Rule of Thirds: CREATE 10 PICTURES

  • The Rule of Thirds is a fundamental guideline in photography and visual arts. It involves dividing an image into a 3x3 grid, like a tic-tac-toe board, by creating two equally spaced horizontal and two equally spaced vertical lines. This results in nine equally sized rectangles and four intersecting points where the lines meet. 

  • The main idea behind the Rule of Thirds is to place key elements of interest, such as the subject or important visual elements, along these gridlines or at their intersections. This placement is believed to create a more balanced, visually appealing, and dynamic composition, as it avoids placing the subject in the center of the frame, which can be less interesting.

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2. Leading Lines: CREATE 10 PICTURES

  • Leading lines are compositional elements in a photograph that guide the viewer's eye towards a specific point or subject in the image. These lines can be actual physical lines, like roads, fences, or bridges, or they can be implied lines created by elements like the arrangement of objects, shadows, or patterns.

  • Leading lines are used to draw the viewer's attention to the focal point of the image and create a sense of depth, movement, or direction within the photograph. They can help convey a story or guide the viewer's interpretation of the scene.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Centred Composition: CREATE 10 PICTURES

  • Centred composition, as the name suggests, involves placing the main subject or point of interest in the center of the frame. Unlike the Rule of Thirds, which encourages off-center placement, centred composition puts the subject at the very center of the photograph.

  • Centred composition can create a sense of balance, symmetry, and stability in an image. It often works well when symmetry or a strong central focus is desired. However, it should be used thoughtfully, as it can sometimes result in a static or less dynamic composition, depending on the subject and context.

These composition techniques are just a few of the many tools photographers use to create visually engaging and meaningful photographs. Depending on the photographer's artistic intent and the nature of the subject, they may choose to use one or more of these techniques to enhance the impact of their images.

rule-of-thirds-grid.jpeg
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SYMMETRY.jpeg

PHOTO ASSIGNMENT #3
STOKE & HOPE

"HOPE
IS LIKE OXYGEN!"

Photographic Media Assignment: Cultivating Hope and Dreams

 

Objective:

This assignment is designed to encourage students to explore their passions, dreams, and the concept of “hope” through the art of photography. Feeling “stoked” and being fueled through “hope” are human emotions which go hand in hand!

 

This is intended to be a super fun project where you begin developing your photographic understanding of composition, visual storytelling and creative use of lighting, while also contemplating how to cultivate a strong sense of hope for personal health and wellness. By capturing images related to your aspirations and envisioning a brighter future, students will develop a growth mindset, emotional well-being, and a sense of optimism that will benefit you as thriving adults.

 

Suggested Mediums: Photography, circle discussion, podcasting and documentary.

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This assignment can be completed over several weeks, with opportunities for reflection and discussion along the way.

Suggested Creative Mediums: Photography, circle discussion, podcasting, visual art and film making documentary.

Materials:

  • ●  Digital camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or smartphone with manual settings)

  • ●  Access to basic photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom or free

    alternatives like GIMP)

  • ●  Notebook or journal

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  • Part 1: Exploring Passions and Dreams: Passion Inventory 

● Write down your passions and interests. What excites you, makes you happy, or what could you spend hours doing without getting bored of feeling disengaged?

2. Visualization Exercise 

● Close your eyes and visualize your ideal future. What do you want to achieve, experience, or become? Be as specific as possible. Remember, no wrong answers and have the courage to be fearless with your answers!

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3. Mood Board Creation (3 days):

● YOU awesome students create a mood board either physically or digitally using images, words, and symbols that represent your dreams and passions. This serves as an initial visual representation of your future aspirations. The moment is brilliant and you are in it right now!

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Part 2: Cultivating Hope Through Photography

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● All students get the opportunity to explore your surroundings with a camera in hand. Capture as many brilliant images that symbolize hope, positivity, and the pursuit of your dreams. Encourage one another to be creative with your use of composition, lighting, and subject matter captured.

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5. Storytelling Through Photography 

  • ●  Have students select one or more of their favorite images from the photo excursion.

  • ●  Write a short narrative or description for each chosen image, explaining how it relates to their hopes and dreams.

    6. Group Discussion (1 day):

  • ●  Arrange a group discussion where students can share their images and stories with their peers.

  • ●  Encourage constructive feedback and dialogue about how photography can be a powerful tool for expressing and cultivating hope.

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  • Reflecting on Hope and Dreams

           Hope and Dreams Worksheet:


Nurturing Hope and Dreams through Photography Instructions:
Reflect on the following questions and fill in your responses.

 

What is the significance of hope in your life? How does it influence your actions and mindset?


Describe one of the images you captured during the photo excursion that represents your hopes and dreams. What elements in the photo convey this message?

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In your mood board, what common themes or symbols did you include that connect to your passions and dreams?


How did sharing your images and stories with your peers during the group discussion affect your understanding of hope and dreams?

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What steps can you take to continue nurturing your passions and aspirations on your journey to becoming a thriving adult?

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Conclusion:

Through this assignment, students will not only explore their passions and dreams but also learn how photography can be a powerful medium for self-expression and cultivating hope. Encourage them to revisit their mood boards and images whenever they need a reminder of their aspirations and the bright future they are working towards.

MEDIA ARTS VIDEO PROJECT #4

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