Photography has moved forward in so many ways over the years and the iPad has given the art form another boost. My Photography I and II students have moved on from the traditional classroom lecture and shoot in the field experience, to a full hands-on class day while out in the field. They now have the opportunity to research, learn, take photographs, take notes, edit, share, and critique work while roaming the campus and the world beyond.
We are now spending more time in the field and less time inside the classroom. This gives the students more opportunity for creativity and time behind the lens. We will spend time in the media lab but I want the kids outside learning, researching and emulating photographers. The iPad and a small number of Apps gives us the mobility we need to move around the campus and the greater community for instruction.
Students are able to research photographers and composition elements while we have some class discussion using a Whiteboard App. Notes and audio notes can be saved for further review at a later time. Students receive assignments on Edmodo where they are able to access the needed handouts. Students shoot their assignment and then they can manipulate their work in Apps such as PS Express or Filterstorm. Students can also shoot video and use it as a whole clip or select specific frames using the Video2Photo App. Creating albums in the camera roll allows students to organize their work (an important skill for photographers). They can also store and move their work using Dropbox. Once a student has completed the shooting assignment they are presenting their work in a variety of formats. Some students will create a Keynote presentation, while others will use Book Creator, and some will even choose to create an iMovie.
I will oftentimes give the students the assignment with the required elements. They have the freedom to choose the method of shooting, the Apps for manipulation and the format in which they will present it. The iPad has not changed the fundamental elements of photography, rather it has become a tool to enhance the way in which the students think, create, shoot and present.
Cathy LaDuke
Athletic Director and Photography Instructor
Chatham Hall Blogging Together 