SP Unit 1
SP Unit 1
PHOTOGRAPHY
SEMESTER 2
UNIT 1
HI COLLEGE
SYLLABUS
UNIT 1
HI COLLEGE
PHOTOGRAPHY: DEFINITION, MEANING &
CONCEPT
Photography is a form of visual art that involves capturing light and other
electromagnetic radiation, such as X-rays, using a camera or other light-sensitive
devices. The term 'photography' comes from the Greek words 'phos,' meaning light,
and 'graphia,' meaning drawing or representation.
Now, let's break down the definition, meaning, and concept of Photography:
Example: When you take a picture with your smartphone, you're using digital
photography. It captures light and converts it into electrical signals, which are then
processed to create the final image.
1. Camera Obscura (circa 5th century BCE): The concept of projecting an image
through a small hole onto a surface dates back to ancient Greece. Artists used this
natural phenomenon to sketch more accurately.
4. Dry Plate Process (1871): The dry plate process, invented by Richard Leach
Maddox, replaced the cumbersome glass-based wet collodion process with a
more convenient and portable gelatin-based emulsion.
5. Kodak Camera and Film (1888): George Eastman introduced the Kodak camera,
which used roll film, making photography more accessible to the general public.
The motto "You press the button, we do the rest" symbolized the ease of use.
6. Color Photography (1907): The Lumière brothers, Auguste and Louis, invented
the Autochrome process, the first practical method for producing color
photographs. It used glass plates with microscopic grains of potato starch dyed
red, green, and blue.
Advantages:
a. Instant preview: Digital cameras allow you to see the image you've captured
right away on their LCD screens.
b. No film costs: You can take an unlimited number of photos without worrying
about film rolls or processing fees.
c. Easy editing: Digital photos can be easily edited on a computer using photo
editing software.
d. Sharing: Sharing digital photos is convenient, as they can be emailed or
uploaded to social media platforms.
2. Film Cameras:
Film cameras use light-sensitive photographic film to capture images. When you
take a photo, light passes through the lens and exposes the film, creating a
negative image. This film then needs to be processed and developed in a darkroom
or sent to a professional lab for printing.
Advantages:
a. Authentic feel: Many photographers appreciate the unique look and feel of film
photography, which can produce richer colors and better tonal range.
b. Film types: Different film types offer distinct characteristics, allowing
photographers to choose the best option for their desired outcome.
c. Analog charm: Film photography enthusiasts enjoy the process of loading film,
taking shots, and waiting for the developed prints, which adds to the overall
experience.
3. Nature Photography: This type encompasses all aspects of the natural world,
including landscapes, plants, and weather phenomena. It demands an eye for
detail, composition, and an appreciation for the environment.
6. Night Photography: As the name suggests, this type is all about capturing
images during nighttime or low-light conditions. It demands knowledge of camera
settings, long exposure techniques, and light painting.