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Peter Glendinning
and
Mark Valentine Sullivan
Welcome to Course THREE! In the first two Modules you will gain a more professional-level understanding of the Design Elements that artists have used throughout history to create successful compositions. Arranging the Elements in ways that lead viewers through their compositions is an essential craft for photographers no matter whether their subject matter is pure documentary or vividly exotic personal expression. In Modules 3 & 4 we survey the essential elements of post-photography image management, using Adobe(tm) LIGHTROOM(tm). Image adjustment software designed for Smartphone photographers rounds out the Course. Since even photographers whose mainstay is a high-end DSLR also must admit to Smartphone use occasionally, and photographers who only use a Smartphone will usually admit that they want to step over to a "regular" camera at some point, there is something for everyone here! Let's get started with Module One!
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What's inside
Syllabus
Elements of Design: Building Blocks of Composition
A writer must understand what nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and other word forms are, before putting them together in sentences that make sense to a reader. Similarly, an artist must understand the essential elements of design that must be put together to create a composition that will "make sense" to a viewer of their artwork. In this first module you will learn about the Elements of Design so you can understand their functions and use them effectively to guide your viewers to the content you wish to be conveyed by your photographs, whether it be creative, or documentary, regardless of the subject matter.
Read more
Syllabus
Elements of Design: Building Blocks of Composition
A writer must understand what nouns, adjectives, adverbs, and other word forms are, before putting them together in sentences that make sense to a reader. Similarly, an artist must understand the essential elements of design that must be put together to create a composition that will "make sense" to a viewer of their artwork. In this first module you will learn about the Elements of Design so you can understand their functions and use them effectively to guide your viewers to the content you wish to be conveyed by your photographs, whether it be creative, or documentary, regardless of the subject matter.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores common building blocks of design that artists use to create successful compositions
Involves the effective usage of design elements to guide viewers through compositions, regardless of the subject matter
Delves into the fundamental principles of organization of design elements through purposeful communication
Introduces the primary aspects of a widely accepted software tool (Lightroom™)
Emphasizes the significance of "Workflow" in the post-production of digital camera image files
Involves the exploration of various photo-editing applications (APPs) to extend the potential of smartphones as photo-editing tools
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Reviews summary
Solid foundation in photo composition and editing
According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation in both photographic composition principles and practical digital post-production using Adobe Lightroom. Students frequently highlight the instructor's clear explanations and the valuable insights gained from the composition modules, stating they significantly improved their approach. The Lightroom section is seen as useful for learning a basic workflow, particularly for beginners. However, some learners with prior experience found the editing content to be basic and not in-depth enough for intermediate or advanced techniques. The course is generally considered well-structured and delivers on its promise for newcomers to photography and editing.
Content is most valuable for new learners.
"Useful for beginners and maybe early intermediate photographers."
"I found the Lightroom section a bit basic... not go into much detail."
"Good for absolute beginners maybe."
Covers essential post-production workflow in Lightroom.
"Module 3 on Lightroom workflow was incredibly useful."
"I finally feel confident managing and editing my photos in Lightroom."
"The workflow presented for Lightroom is practical and efficient."
Instructor explains concepts clearly and engagingly.
"The instructor explains everything so clearly and provides great examples."
"He makes potentially complex ideas seem simple and understandable."
"The instructor is excellent and makes the concepts easy to grasp."
Deepens understanding of artistic composition elements.
"The modules on composition really opened my eyes to how artists guide the viewer's eye."
"The composition part was very insightful."
"Understanding composition principles was a game-changer for my photography."
Smartphone module is brief and lacks depth.
"The smartphone editing section was less relevant to me personally, but a nice addition."
"Also, the smartphone app section was not very detailed."
"The smartphone part was too brief."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production with these
activities:
Review Composition Principles
Show steps
Brush up on the principles of composition to establish a strong foundation for the course.
Show steps
-
Revisit basic principles of visual design, such as lines, shapes, and colors.
-
Analyze compositions in famous artworks or photographs, paying attention to how elements are arranged and interact.
Read 'Understanding Composition' by Bryan Peterson
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of composition principles and techniques.
View
Learning to See Creatively, Third Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the explanations and examples provided.
-
Apply the concepts learned to your own photographic practice.
Composition Exercises
Show steps
Put composition principles into practice through regular exercises.
Show steps
-
Take photographs or create mock-ups using different composition techniques, such as the rule of thirds or leading lines.
-
Seek feedback on your compositions from peers or mentors.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Attend a Composition Workshop
Show steps
Receive personalized guidance and feedback on composition skills through a workshop led by experienced photographers.
Show steps
-
Research and find a composition workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
-
Attend the workshop, actively participate in discussions and exercises.
-
Seek feedback from the instructor and other participants on your compositions.
Document a Personal Story
Show steps
Put composition skills into practice by creating a series of photographs that tell a personal story.
Show steps
-
Identify a personal story or experience you want to convey.
-
Plan a series of shots that will effectively communicate the story, considering composition techniques and visual impact.
-
Capture the photographs, paying attention to composition and lighting.
-
Edit and sequence the photographs to create a cohesive narrative.
Develop a Personal Composition Style
Show steps
Identify and refine a unique composition style that reflects personal vision and artistic goals.
Show steps
-
Create a series of photographs that explore different composition techniques and styles.
-
Analyze and reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of each composition, identifying patterns and preferences.
-
Develop a personal composition style that combines effective techniques with unique vision.
Review Composition Principles
Show steps
Brush up on the principles of composition to establish a strong foundation for the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Revisit basic principles of visual design, such as lines, shapes, and colors.
- Analyze compositions in famous artworks or photographs, paying attention to how elements are arranged and interact.
Read 'Understanding Composition' by Bryan Peterson
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of composition principles and techniques.
View
Learning to See Creatively, Third Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the explanations and examples provided.
- Apply the concepts learned to your own photographic practice.
Composition Exercises
Show steps
Put composition principles into practice through regular exercises.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Take photographs or create mock-ups using different composition techniques, such as the rule of thirds or leading lines.
- Seek feedback on your compositions from peers or mentors.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Attend a Composition Workshop
Show steps
Receive personalized guidance and feedback on composition skills through a workshop led by experienced photographers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and find a composition workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
- Attend the workshop, actively participate in discussions and exercises.
- Seek feedback from the instructor and other participants on your compositions.
Document a Personal Story
Show steps
Put composition skills into practice by creating a series of photographs that tell a personal story.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a personal story or experience you want to convey.
- Plan a series of shots that will effectively communicate the story, considering composition techniques and visual impact.
- Capture the photographs, paying attention to composition and lighting.
- Edit and sequence the photographs to create a cohesive narrative.
Develop a Personal Composition Style
Show steps
Identify and refine a unique composition style that reflects personal vision and artistic goals.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a series of photographs that explore different composition techniques and styles.
- Analyze and reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of each composition, identifying patterns and preferences.
- Develop a personal composition style that combines effective techniques with unique vision.
Career center
Learners who complete Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Photographer
Photographer
Design and capture images using a camera, lighting, and other equipment. A Photographer may use natural light or artificial lighting and can work in a studio or outdoors on location. Some Photographers specialize in a specific type of photography, such as event photography, fashion photography, or photojournalism. Understanding the Elements of Design can help a Photographer better guide viewers to the content they wish to be conveyed by their photographs. Knowledge of post-production workflow and software platforms can help a Photographer edit and enhance their images to achieve the desired results.
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. This course can provide a solid grounding in the Elements of Design, which are the building blocks of effective graphic design. The course also covers composition, which is critical for creating visually appealing and effective designs.
Art Director
Art Director
Collaborate with a team of artists, writers, editors, and other creatives to develop the visual concept of a project. Art Directors typically have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Art Directors enhance their skills in these areas.
Creative Director
Creative Director
Develop the overall creative vision for a project, ensuring that all creative elements are aligned with the project's goals. Creative Directors often have a background in design or a related field, and this course can help them further develop their understanding of design principles and creative storytelling.
User Experience (UX) Designer
User Experience (UX) Designer
Design user interfaces for websites, apps, and other digital products, focusing on the user's experience and satisfaction. UX Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help UX Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces.
Web Designer
Web Designer
Design and develop websites, ensuring that they are visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly. Web Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Web Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create effective and engaging websites.
Art teacher
Art teacher
Teach visual arts principles and techniques to students of all ages. Art Teachers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Art Teachers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively teach art to students.
Interior designer
Interior designer
Plan and design the interior spaces of buildings, including residential, commercial, and institutional spaces. Interior Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Interior Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create functional and visually appealing interior spaces.
Architect
Architect
Design and plan buildings, ensuring that they are functional, safe, and visually appealing. Architects need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Architects enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create buildings that meet the needs of their users.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Design and plan outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and other public spaces. Landscape Architects need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Landscape Architects enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create outdoor spaces that are both functional and visually appealing.
Fashion Designer
Fashion Designer
Design and create clothing and accessories. Fashion Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Fashion Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create clothing and accessories that are both stylish and functional.
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designer
Design and develop products that are both functional and visually appealing. Industrial Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Industrial Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create products that meet the needs of their users.
Multimedia Artist
Multimedia Artist
Create artwork that combines different media, such as photography, video, and sound. Multimedia Artists need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Multimedia Artists enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create artwork that is both visually appealing and meaningful.
Animator
Animator
Create animated images and videos. Animators need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Animators enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create animations that are both visually appealing and engaging.
Game Designer
Game Designer
Design and develop video games. Game Designers need to have a strong understanding of design principles, including the Elements of Design and composition. This course can help Game Designers enhance their skills in these areas and gain a deeper understanding of how to create video games that are both fun and challenging.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/iou0u4/principles
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production.
Classic guide to composition and design in photography. It is full of inspiring images and practical advice, and it must-read for any photographer who wants to improve their skills.
Is the top-selling guide to Lightroom, Adobe's powerful photo-editing software. It is written in a clear and concise style, and it is packed with tips and tricks that will help you get the most out of Lightroom.
Comprehensive guide to photography, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. It is written by a professional photographer, and it is full of practical advice and insights.
This detailed guide to understanding and controlling light will help students master the technical aspects of photography and improve their composition skills.
Comprehensive guide to the basics of digital photography. It covers everything from choosing the right camera to editing your photos. It great resource for beginners who want to learn more about photography.
Great resource for photographers who want to learn how to use Photoshop to edit their photos. It covers the basics of Photoshop, as well as more advanced techniques.
Great resource for iPhone photographers. It covers the basics of iPhone photography, as well as more advanced techniques.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/iou0u4/principles
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
Via
Coursera
Institution
Michigan State University
Instructors
Peter Glendinning
Mark Valentine Sullivan
Language
English
Transcripts
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فارسی
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tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR. It's comprised of five courses:
- Cameras, Exposure, and Photography
- Camera Control
- Photography Techniques: Light, Content, and Sharing
- Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production (viewing)
- Photography Capstone Project
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