Module Information

Module Identifier
AR32240
Module Title
Photography 6 - Photo Directed Practice
Academic Year
2025/2026
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
Reading List

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Portfolio  Suite of 6 photographs and supporting material  100%
Supplementary Assessment Portfolio  Suite of 6 photographs and supporting material  100%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Create a selection of professionally presented, technically proficient final prints for a self-directed project.

Develop a portfolio body of art practice and corresponding research (sketchbook, notebook) that fully explores conceptual and thematic ideas identified in the self-directed project, illustrating project development.

Evaluate students’ art practice within the context of contemporary and historical traditions of photography.

Choose techniques and materials in a selective and critical manner, further advancing student technical skills in Photography.

Brief description

This module which runs concurrently with AR32130 Photography 5 aims to nurture self-directed study. Tutorial support is given on a one-to-one basis and a number of demonstrations or workshops in advanced photography techniques are offered as required. A professional approach to photography is expected in addition to work outside of timetabled sessions is required to fully develop their self-directed project. Students are expected to research and develop a strong conceptual and thematic basis for their work using subject matter that is meaningful and important to them. The direction or choice of subject matter may derive from previous work conducted in year 2 or may initiate from newly formed ideas or aspirations. The intended body of work and chosen subject matter is determined by discussions with the student's tutor during which a programme of research and development is suggested and agreed.

Students are expected to produce a portfolio including a selection of professional photographic prints and a notebook/sketchbook of experiments, image plans, drawings, written and visual material, demonstrating both thematic and technical research and experimentation in technique, format and media. Final photographic prints should be executed with high regard to presentation, photographic convention and should presented in a professional manner.

For single honours Fine Art students, this module is closely aligned with AR30620 Research and Process in Practice, the work produced in this module will inform the other.

Aims

This module promotes self-directed study, focusing upon the conceptual and practical aspects of photographic art practice. Students will explore their own creative ideas, developing an appropriate subject matter for their self-directed project. Photographic knowledge is further developed through experimentation with a range of process, choosing the appropriate process for their individual project. Specifically in this module, students concentrate upon developing an experimental approach to the production of photography, researching, testing out ideas, formats and methods and refining their practice in preparation for work on the final exhibition.

Content

This module includes one-one or group tutorials, in addition to a selection of advanced photographic process workshops throughout the semester. A significant portion of this module is completed through independent study outside of timetable sessions, further developing students’ art practice. Content supported by online resources and readings as appropriate. A range of formative, active learning activities are spread throughout the term, developing students’ professionalism as photographers/art practitioners.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Communication development and encouragement of communication skills occurs during workshop-based activity and during tutorials and group seminars
Improving own Learning and Performance development of a self-critical approach to creative working and professional conduct in the production of a portfolio of images
Information Technology development of graphic IT skills through use of digital imaging programmes such as Adobe Photoshop
Problem solving development of practical photographic skills and problem solving in aspects of light-sensitive media and through research
Research skills development of a programme of research and self directed work that provides evidence of experimental approach to light-sensitive media and gives expression to the development of a personal statement
Subject Specific Skills developing skills of alternative process portfolio production self-management, time management and use of studio facilities for completion of self-directed project work
Team work development and encouragement of team work and student interaction occurs during workshop-based activity and during tutorials and group seminars

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 6