Why individuals photograph and what they think about the medium is complex. Critical theory from the 1970s has cited collective cultural `construction' as a dominant method to explain or `read' photographic images. Developed from a range of disciplines like linguistics and psychoanalysis, such theory offers semiotic analysis and interpretation as approaches to understanding pictures and social motivation. Other views of photographing are dependent less upon this collective model but considers individual human agency and the idea of personal motivation as being paramount. In this module you will explore ideas that originate from art history, philosophy, aesthetics, psychology and sociology to help understand such questions and for you to form your own judgment.

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, and either produce a portfolio of photographs, write a critical essay 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.

Scheduled Learning Activities
Lectures
Group Tutorials (Feedback)
Group Discussion (Feedback)
The `Photo-Voices' Lecture Programme

Guided Independent Study
Independent Photographic Practise and Visual Experimentation (if appropriate)
Independent Reading and Research

Key Information Set Data
Scheduled Learning 19%
Guided Independent Learning 81%

RESOURCES
Specialist photographic equipment
Specialist studio, digital and darkroom facilities
Lecture theatre and tutorial rooms
Thompson Library
Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment will support this module where relevant.
Word-processing and output facilities
Internet access

Photographic Texts
Elkins, J (2011). What Photography Is. Routledge
Elkins, J. (2007). Photography Theory. Routledge
Walden, S (2008). Photography and Philosophy: Essays on the Pencil of Nature. Blackwell

Critical Texts
Sontag, S. (1994). Against Interpretation. (Essay) Vintage.
Stinati, D (1995) An Introduction to Theories of Popular Culture. Routledge

Psychology and Science Texts
Koestler, A (1964). The Act of Creation. Arkana
Pinker, S (2002) The Blank Slate. Penguin Books
Tallis, R. (2009). The Kingdom of Infinite Space: A Fantastical Journey Around Your Head. Atlantic Books

Specialist Periodicals in Library:
American Photo, Aperture, British Journal of Photography (BJP), Camera Austria, Ei8ht (Foto8), Exposure, History of Photography, Next Level, Photographer (BIPP Magazine), Photoworks, Portfolio (Back issues only no longer published), Visual Studies.

Essay or Portfolio

You will present for assessment one piece of work, either:
A 3000 word-processed and illustrated essay.
(Learning Outcomes 1,2,3).
OR
A Portfolio of photographic images combined with a 500 word Critical Statement.
(Learning Outcomes 1,2,3)

Submission is Summative Assessment. Please refer to the Award Handbook for a full description and rationale for assessment methods.

Key Information Set Data
100% Coursework