Self Evaluation

SELF EVALUATION REPORT

The Photographic Skills A module has definitely been an eye opener for me. I have always had such a passion for photography but was yet to learn the basics such as techniques. This module has taught me not only how to work my way around my camera, but how to use lighting and Photoshop to their fullest functions also. The three assignments in this module were all things that I had never come across before, and I liked the challenge of learning something new.

I have always had a basic knowledge on how to work my way around the camera, but always lacked confidence in being able to perform tasks by myself. When I first started this course, I had doubts that I would not of been able to keep up with the rest of the class because of this, but going back to basics with my tutors has helped me grow in confidence and given me that extra drive to learn more. My favorite part of this module was learning all of the different lighting techniques, I was so impressed with all the different effects that could be done with using just simple techniques and it gave me hundreds of ideas of my own.  I also really enjoyed the class on Photoshop. During college, I had used Photoshop in my art course for simple adjustments but never really got to grips with the full advantages that Photoshop can have on your work.

I think that the three assignments that were set in this module fit really nicely together and gave me a chance to experience and experiment with different ideas. Out of the three, I preferred the studio shot the most, as I had never experienced working in a studio before. Not only did it give me the chance to work in a studio setting for the first time, but it also taught me more on researching and how that can also help you along the way. My tutors helped me to come out of my shell with this assignment as well, because originally my plan was to take a simple promotion shot for the company Smirnoff. After I had written my proposal, my tutor pointed out to me that I had mentioned issues that could be played around with, which opened my mind to so many more ideas. So this assignment was definitely the biggest learning curve for me, and I am glad that I was pushed to try new things instead of going for the easiest option.

Out of the three assignments, I struggled with the depth of field one the most. As mentioned before, I was not an expert when it came to the technical side of the camera, and I struggled slightly on getting to grips with how to use the right settings for the depth of field shot. Yet, like everything else, It only helped me become more eager to learn how to use the settings and became more confident. As well as the depth of field assignment, the other thing I struggled with slightly was blogging. I have never had to blog anything digitally before, all my work has always had to be presented on card, so this was all very new to me and it took a bit of getting used too. I am glad now that I have done this first module, so that I now know what to expect from future modules when It comes to blogging.

Overall, I am throughougly pleased with my progress during the module. It was helped me grow as a young photographer and opened my eyes to so many more ideas. When I started this course, I was yet to know what kind of photographer I would eventually like to be, which paths I would like to take, and this module has certainly broadened my horizon.
I have gained so much more confidence technically, in Photoshop and in blogging, which will help me to progress much further throughout this three year course.