Photographic process
The photographic process allows an image to be reproduced using light.
This process has developed over many years to now enable聽mass producedAn item made in large numbers using factory production methods. and sharing of images through magazines, posters, fine art pictures, advertising etc.
Photographic techniques include traditional (analogue) photography, digital photography and camera-less photography.
- traditional photography聽uses light-sensitive film negativeA photographic image where the tones are reversed - so dark is light and light is dark and light-sensitive paper to create an image
- digital photography聽saves images as files that can be manipulateControl or alter in a skilled way on a computer
Using a camera on its聽manual setting聽instead of in automatic mode lets the user change the apertureThe opening through which light passes to reach the photographic film or plate in a camera , focusThe point underground directly beneath the epicentre where the plates snap apart. and shutter speedThe length of time a camera's shutter is open, and therefore the time the photographic film or sensor is exposed to light. which gives more control over the photograph.
Photography genres
There are many different genres of photography including:
- studio
- portrait
- fashion
- landscape
- street photography
- documentary
- wildlife
- macro (close-up) photography
Specific skills are needed for each genre.
Working in a studio gives the most control over lighting and compositionArrangement of different elements within an artwork or design., and allows for planning everything in advance. Even when everything is planned out, it is still important to experiment with different viewpointThe place or position from which the artwork was created. Examples include eye level, from an elevated position and bird's eye view., angles and moods.
Using atripodA three-legged support that is used to hold a camera steady will help prevent blurry wildlife images of moving or distant animals. It could be difficult to get close to the subject, so experimenting with different depth of fieldThe distance between the nearest and furthest parts of a photograph that are in clear focus. and lighting effects when using a long lens could help capture the right shot.
Choosing the right lens and distance from the subject is key for close-up images. Changing the depth of field can help show the whole subject in great detail or highlight a key area against softened surroundings.
With landscape photographs it is important to think about how wide a composition is.
Moving around will give a different camera angle and change the relationship between objects in the shot. This will also change the layout of objects in the foregroundThe part of a composition that appears to be nearest to the viewer, midgroundIn terms of the depth of an image, the midground sits between the foreground and the background and backgroundThe part of a composition that appears furthest from the viewer..
Working at different times of day gives different lighting conditions. Using a focal pointThe point where a lens focuses parallel light. will help make sure your photos have interest and impact. These techniques can create different moods and emotions.
Question
What is the difference between traditional and digital photography?
Traditional photography uses film while digital photography stores images as digital files.