Lectures
Seminars
Individual tutorials
Independent reading and research

Kelsey, R. 2016. Photography and the Art of Chance. Harvard University Press
Koestler, A 1964 The Act of Creation, Arkana
Pinker, S 2002 The Blank Slate, Penguin Books
Stinati, D 1995 An Introduction to Theories of Popular Culture, Routledge
Tallis, R. 2009. The Kingdom of Infinite Space: A Fantastical Journey Around Your Head. Atlantic Books
Wells, E 2003 The Photography Reader, London, Routledge

Why individuals make photographs and how they think about the medium is both diverse and complex. Critical thinking about photography cites culture as predominant and covers a wide range of theory and writing largely drawn from other disciplines. In different ways they offer views that challenge our 'common-sense' assumptions about the medium and re-orientate interpretation and understanding in thinking about the production of photographic images. Another view of the photograph is modeled less upon interpretation but considers for example the significance of craft, or why human beings even make pictures? In this module you will explore ideas that may originate from art history, philosophy, aesthetics, political theory and psychology for example, to understand such questions.

The module offers the opportunity to develop your photographic skills, conceptual understanding and written/oral abilities to discuss the medium in general and your own particular approaches to practice. You will be asked to consider relevant texts, debate the issues raised in lectures, offer a presentation and either produce a portfolio of photographs, write a critical essay or combination of both in response to a considered way of working. It will appeal to students pursuing a career as photographers, artists, curators, writers, journalists and academic professionals from a wide variety of disciplines.

You will present for assessment:
1. A seminar presentation
2. A 3,000 word, minimum, word processed and illustrated essay
OR:
3. A body of photography in media of your choice that may include text.
OR:
4. A combination of 1,500 word, minimum, essay and body of photography

1. Seminar presentation (30%) [Learning Outcome 2]
2. Essay: Problem solving (70%) [Learning Outcomes 3,4]
3. Body of Photographic work (70%) [Learning Outcomes 1,3,4]
4.Combination (70%) [Learning Outcome 1,3,4]

Specialist workshop facilities, as appropriate
Laptop and Data Projector
Library
Word-processing facilities
Internet access
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the Module Handbook.