ATS2169 · Photojournalism

Overview

This second-year unit will introduce students to the theory and practice of photojournalism. The unit will critically engage with the history and ethics of photojournalism, illuminating the complex debates surrounding its use, dissemination and practice. In addition, students will learn to develop and reflect on skills in planning, taking, editing and presenting news photographs using industry-standard technologies, and relevant to understanding and operating in the changing digital media landscape. The unit is designed for students interested in photojournalism and those wanting to gain critical photographic skills in a changing digital media landscape.

Areas of study: Journalism

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Students will develop an understanding of the historical circumstances, technological developments and industry context which have contributed to the contemporary practice of photojournalism.
2. Students will develop the ability to critically assess what constitutes an effective image from both a technical and journalistic point of view.
3. Students will develop competencies in planning, selecting and setting up photographic subject material in accordance with good journalistic practice.
4. Students will develop competencies in taking individual photos, or sets of photos which present coherent narratives, that are suitable for publication, using industry-standard photographic equipment.
5. Students will develop competencies in editing photos for publication in a variety of media using industry-standard software.
6. Students will be able to provide captions and other interpretative text for both individual photos and photo essays.
7. Students will be able to work within the ethical parameters of photojournalism.
8. Students will develop photojournalism skills and a portfolio of work that will enhance job opportunities in journalism.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.