Our Tier 1 students of 2016 are on an interesting path of developing their unique vision in photography with teachers Anat Cossen and Craig Wetjen. Introduced to the concept of constructing personal techniques in visual communication, students were encouraged to apply their styles and analyse a breadth of work from across the field.

Exploring areas of colour, light and composition our new group of student photographers were asked to develop a small portfolio of work that touched upon themes of ‘pattern and repetition’, ‘harmonious colours’ and ‘leading line’. Students came to class to have their work seen by their group, where elements were analysed and ideas about future photoshoots were brainstormed.

Image by Emily Skelton

Image by Christina Tainsh

Image by Dan A'vard

Anat also encouraged her students to make mix media collages to develop their understanding of communicating with imagery.

With Jonathan Shaw in the mix this month, we also had the privilege of taking part in an international online collaboration with Disruptive Media, Coventry University and Europeana Space, called #photomediations. Students enjoyed showcasing their collages online and playing a vital role in an international conversation about the technology of photography and ‘open access’.

During this time, Anat led her class to a Pat Brassington exhibition at the Arc One gallery, to immerse them in the current photography scene of Melbourne. Each student analysed one piece of work from the exhibition to further apply their practice of visual communication, with real world examples.

While students were looking at building their understanding of image design, they were taken on a hands-on exercise of lighting design with Craig Wetjen. The tier 1 class learnt about shape and form through lighting. Craig taught them different techniques that utilized ‘backlight’, ‘sidelight’ with reflectors and natural light.

Students transferred their understanding of lighting to their practice of image design, to successfully build a strong foundation in visual communications. We look forward to hearing about their assessments for their first module will go in the upcoming weeks! To know more about our curriculum, visit our website.