This week’s lecture focused on aperture and depth of field. We are starting to learn the basics of photography and camera settings. We explored different types of focus, the fundamentals of iPhone cameras, and how to adjust settings on both smartphones and traditional cameras.

We also discussed how aperture influences the meaning of a photo and how it shapes the way an audience perceives an image.

For the workshop task, I went out with Fin, and we found a passage covered in graffiti and vibrant colors. We took three different photos using various apertures and analysed how each setting affected the image’s meaning.

I really enjoyed this lecture and am excited to apply what I’ve learned using my personal camera instead of an iPhone, as it will allow me to have more control over the settings for my photographs.

This lecture was more engaging as we had the opportunity to view and discuss everyone’s work from last week. This gave the class a chance to reflect, develop, and add more to our previous workshop tasks. I took this opportunity to add more to my work and publish my final research post.

Following that, I wrote my reflection post summarising the past couple of weeks. I also started planning interview questions and explored the settings on my camera to figure out how to achieve the best quality photographs. However, I struggled with this because the settings kept resetting every time I turned the camera off. I’m unsure if I’m doing something wrong, so I’m going to bring the camera to next week’s session for Karl to take a look and help me adjust it properly.

After the session, I drafted an email to Pancreatic Cancer UK to request an interview. This will help me start gathering quotes and images for my final assignment.

I really enjoyed this lecture as it followed a similar structure to the previous week, where we went through the presentation slides and learned about different styles of photography and how they are applied in various environments. This led to selecting a specific style of photojournalism to focus on. I chose sports photography because it aligns with my interests and the area I want to specialise in.

I researched the history of sports photography, exploring some of the earliest examples and how the genre has evolved over time. I also discovered the work of several well-known sports photographers and showcased their work as part of my research. Finally, I discussed the key techniques, challenges, and recurring themes within the genre.

During the lecture, Karl went around and spoke to everyone individually. When I spoke with him, it really helped me develop and solidify my idea for my final project. I’ve decided to focus on my brother, who will be running the Brighton Marathon at the beginning of April. My article will cover his journey, starting with his training and preparation, followed by the marathon itself and his performance in the race. Additionally, I plan to interview the charity he’s raising money for, discussing the importance of fundraising through physical activities and how it supports their work

I missed the first lecture back due to a family circumstance; however, I caught up by watching the lecture online. I thoroughly reviewed all the slides, made notes on the assignment, and familiarised myself with the module’s background and the key concepts needed to begin the Week 1 workshop. Additionally, I spent time looking through past examples to gather inspiration for my final assignment.

For the workshop task, I chose to explore the meaning behind a tattoo. Since I was at home, I decided to interview my sister (Aisling) about one of hers. I approached the interview in a more serious, journalistic manner, ensuring that even though she knows me well, she wouldn’t assume I already knew the answers. Aisling provided great answers and some heartfelt quotes, which added a personal and emotional touch to the story.

I also took three photos to complement the piece: a headshot to introduce her, a close-up of the tattoo we discussed, and an action shot of her talking about and showing it.

Despite not being physically present for the lecture, I feel I gained a strong understanding of the material and learned a lot. I’m excited to build on this knowledge and get started on my assignment.