Contemporary art photography

About this course

The course examines photography’s place within fine art, combining historical perspectives with current conceptual approaches and examples of exhibited and published work. Participants consider camera types, lighting, traditional and digital printing, and ways of experimenting with technology and formats. Teaching includes illustrated lectures, group discussion, artist work reviews and opportunities to present images for tutor and peer feedback. The course also covers artist statements, exhibition and publishing choices, and aspects of the professional context, including galleries, museums, agents and publicity.

What you'll learn

• Discuss historical examples and conceptual strands in fine art photography.
• Experiment with photographic technologies and formats to develop creative ideas.
• Explain how changing technologies have influenced contemporary fine art photography.
• Reflect on photographic work and respond to tutor and peer feedback.
• Develop approaches to describing, exhibiting, publishing and promoting photographic work.

Is this course right for you?

This introductory course is open to people interested in contemporary art photography, including those who are not photographers. Basic knowledge of a camera’s manual functions would be useful for participants bringing work to discuss. Participation includes group discussion, viewing artists’ work and feedback sessions.

• Non-photographers can take part without bringing their own work.
• Participants should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, demonstrations and health and safety information.
• Simple use of numbers, measurements and calculations is expected.

Before you go

• Participants are asked to bring examples of their own work for feedback; non-practitioners are not expected to bring work.
• Google Classroom is used to share comments, access course materials and, where appropriate, upload images for group discussion.