Introduction

This Unit explores the way photographs can enhance a participatory mapping project. It introduces trainees to the Photo Voice model as a tool for community expression. It reviews basic techniques, including a discussion of the ideas that a picture can convey when certain variables are altered, such as composition or lighting. The Unit includes exercises that allow trainees to practise photo-taking techniques.

Unit objectives / expected outcomes

After the completion of the Unit the trainee will be able to:

• discuss the Photo Voice concept as a tool of community expression;
• apply the principles of photographic composition;
• position the content of a picture appropriately;
• select the right types of shots and distance of the camera;
• choose an appropriate angle and height of the camera;
• work correctly with exposure and focus;
• adjust photography to different light conditions.

Content outline, main topics covered and suggested sequencing

This Unit focuses on the topics listed below:

1. Fundamentals of photography (Photo Voice) (PPT No. 1: Documentation: Fundamentals of Photography (Photo Voice)) (1½ hrs)
2. Exercises on photography (Exercises No. 1 to 5, depending on time available) (45 min each)

Components of the Unit

Exercises

• Exercise No. 1: Composition; to practise composing photographs using several different conventions (45 min)
• Exercise No. 2: Experimenting with Lighting; to operate the camera in different levels of lighting (45 min)
• Exercise No. 3: Experimenting with Zoom; to become familiar with the zoom capabilities on a digital camera and determine when to zoom in or out (45 min)
• Exercise No. 4: The Rule of Thirds; to employ the Rule of Thirds when taking a photograph with a digital camera (45 min)
• Exercise No. 5: Working with Angles; to practise taking photographs using different camera angles (45 min)

Handouts for Trainee (to be distributed in printed format):

• Fundamentals of Photography (Photo Voice) (Handout4T)
• Unit Glossary

Presentations

• PPT No. 1: Documentation: Fundamentals of Photography (Photo Voice); This presentation introduces Photo Voice and explores basic photographic techniques (30 min)

Duration

½ - 1 day, if all Exercises are involved

Equipment needed

Computer and beamer, basic digital cameras with memory cards, note pads, pens and/or pencils

Additional downloads

• Download this page in MS Word format (additional information included)
• Download the complete unit