Florence photography courses - Documentary Photography

DEPARTMENTS

FINE ARTS DEPARTMENTS

DESIGN DEPARTMENTS

LIBERAL ARTS & CULTURAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

Courses

Documentary Photography

Course Number:PGY3930C

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The social and aesthetic aspects of this vital and evolving photographic tradition are explored through and examination of methods, concepts, and history. Projects are designed to use the students’ everyday experience in Florence as a focus for understanding the medium and practice of documentary photography.

Photographic material/supplies: You are expected to have a 35mm camera that permits manual adjustment of shutter speeds and apertures. You will also be required to purchase your own b/w film and paper for the class.
You will shoot a minimum of 15 and likely up to 25 rolls of 24 or 36 exposure film. Unless you are set on a particular film I would suggest a 400 ASA or 125ASA film to start (for black and white film, use one of the following: Kodak Tri-X or Ilford HP5, HP4). You will be told when to use 400 ASA or 125 ASA film. The cost of the film varies depending on the type. You will typically spend 3 to 6 euro for each roll of film. Photographic paper also varies in cost. The cost for a box of 50 sheets is 44 euros 7x9 1/2 in size.
Purchase 25 rolls black and white film (Kodak Tri-X or Ilford HP5, HP4, 125 ASA, 400 ASA). You can purchase your rolls of film in bulk at the beginning of the semester or as you have each assignment.
Purchase (for starters) a box of 50 sheets of “9 1/2x12” black and white paper (Ilford Multigrade Fiber base, Matte, Glossy).
Purchase 25 Negative sleeves. Negative sleeves are .24 cents each.
Purchase a folder or binder for storing negatives. Each student will receive a binder, there is not charge for the binders.
Purchase a large folder or envelope for turning in photo projects. The folder can be purchase at a stationery store for under 4 euros.
Purchase a journal book. A journal book of your choose can range anywhere from 2,50 to 12 euros.
Purchase a towel (used for the darkroom and developing film). A towel can be purchased at the supermarket for less than 5 euros.
Purchase an apron (I suggest not wearing “good clothing” on the days that you will be working in the darkroom or developing film). An apron can be purchase at San Lorenzo market of at a supermarket for less than 10 euros.
Purchase rubber gloves, and a paper mask (used for mixing chemistry). They can be bought at the hardware store for less than 10 euros.

You must have an apron, rubber gloves, a towel and a paper mask. The purchase of these materials are for your safety when developing film and working with the chemistry in the darkroom.