Diploma in Commercial Photography

Introduction to Photography

In this fundamental course, the students will investigate the impact of photography as a medium of visual communication. History of photography with emphasis placed on materials, processes and techniques that have played significant roles in the development of the field. Difference between analog & digital photography.

Fundamentals of digital photography. Working with your DSLR. Components of a camera, Understanding light and exposure. Controlling exposure with Shutter, Aperture and ISO, Using camera to capture mood and emotions and as a tool to tell stories. Understanding photography as a profession – commercial, editorial, wildlife, travel etc. Learning and exploiting all the tools available for correct exposure.

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN AND COMPOSITION
Basics color principles, including line, shape, hue, texture, form, value and intensity are studied. Students investigate color as seen in black and white and its relationship to composition through harmony and contrast in a variety of formats and media. Students will also learn the usage of classical rules of composition to make a visual statement.

Light Theory

Advanced understanding of light. Handling difficult light situations. Understanding light and shade. Understanding light direction, throw of light, soft light, contrast or hard light, the Light cage, etc. In-depth understanding of artificial lights i.e. studio flashlights, halogen, tungsten, etc. Understanding color temperature light quality, advantages and problems.

PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
In depth study of studio equipment, their uses and management. Technical mastery of complex equipment. In-depth understanding of types of lights and light modifiers Reflectors, Wide light sources, Light banks, Umbrellas, soft boxes, honeycombs, snoots, etc. Understanding and setting up your own studio.

PORTRAITURE
Concept of Portrait photography. Tools and requirement: Studio, camera, lenses, film etc. Natural light portraiture vs artificial light portraiture. Basic Portrait lighting: Main light, fill, hair, background light. Light ratio. Studio and/or location photography. Outdoor Fashion and Portrait Lighting using Diffuser, Reflector, Mirror etc

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY
An overview of the fashion photography industry. Corrective and glamorous make-up. Classical lighting set ups. Fashion lighting set ups, Film Noir Lighting. Use of various backgrounds. Posing and creative techniques. Directing and working among a design team (Models, Costume and makeup artists) for understanding a professional working environment.

PHOTOGRAPHING FASHION ACCESSORIES
Students will be taught the lighting and professional techniques to creatively and accurately shoot fashion accessories like purses, cosmetics, perfumes belts, etc.

IMAGE MANAGEMENT AND EDITING
In depth hands on training on the practical usage of Digital Imaging software. Photo cataloguing and editing using Adobe lightroom. Working with RAW format. Image manipulation, retouching and Special effects for commercial shoots.

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Understanding the commercial photography industry. Working with people (Art directors/clients/modelling agencies/etc). Studio management. Copyright laws. General business protocol. Understanding professional goals, business plans, marketing tools and photography markets.