Photo Realistic Composite

Important Dates:

3/11; a few possible ideas

3/22 & 3/24; in-class shooting of main character.

4/14; final image and print due. File for printing due prior class

The objective of this assignment is to create a photorealistic impression of an event that never took place. This event can be fictional or have historical, art-historical or pop-cultural references. The finish piece should have a strong subject/conceptual component; it should go well beyond being a photoshop exercise. Be imaginative.

Since you are working in a production/directorial mode, it might help to think of this project theatrically. Who is your main character? What do they look like? How are they costumed? And... what is the "stage" they will occupy? The finished piece should include at least three photographic elements: main subject, secondary subject and background. All photography must be yours -- no appropriated imagery (appropriated themes are okay). It should be convincing as a "photograph."

The main subject (a person) should be captured in the studio, using "white screen" approaches presented in class. Use costumes, make-up, etc. as required.

Photography/photoshop work should demonstrate skills as taught in class. Special care should be given to masking techniques and lighting.

Image specs: 11x14 (approximate) @ 300 dpi. Turn in layered photoshop file and quality print.

Scheduling

3/2

Presentation: Language

In-class production

3/8

Introductory Lecture: Creative Digital Production Project

Finish mash-up projects. Files due for printing.

3/10

Critique mash-up projects

3/15, 3/17

Spring break

3/22

Group A Studio Production Shoot

3/24

Group B Studio Production Shoot

Group Critique Mash-up project

Within your groups of three or four, view and discuss the work of each group member.

Which design seems the most compelling? Why? Evaluate along:

• Overall concept
• Strong design elements (color, texture, composition, etc.)
• Interesting visual interactions between layers / components
• How do the photoshop / layer techniques support the idea?

Which design seems the least compelling? Why?

How could the strongest design be improved? What is the weakest element?

Are there aspects of the lesser designs that could be incorporated into the stronger?

Are there completely new directions / tangents suggested by the work?

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Take the feedback into consideration and revise one piece to "completion"