Course -BTEC Foundation in Photography: Darkroom Practice
Academic titleBTEC Foundation in Photography: Darkroom Practice
Course descriptionCourse Description
The digital revolution has, surprisingly, seen an increase in the use of traditional darkroom skills and the use of silver based printing materials for fine art and exhibition work. In this unit, you will learn how to exploit these materials to the best advantage, and use advanced techniques such as split grading, pre-flashing and lith printing. You will also find out how to use digitally produced negatives in a wet darkroom.
What background and qualifications do you need to join?
This is a level 3 course, it is an advantage if you have completed a level 2 course here or at another centre before applying, although it is not essential. There are no entry requirements, however you will need to be able to show a small portfolio of work at an interview, you will also be asked to complete a project which you will need to bring with you to the interview in order to secure a place. Priority will be given to students who have successfully completed a previous level 2 photography course. Places on this course are limited, therefore please select work for your portfolio carefully.
What does the course lead to?
This course is a single BTEC unit from the BTEC Diploma in Photography. Although you can complete this unit on its own, it is more beneficial if you combine it with other units from the Diploma. The completion of 2 units enables you to get an Award in Photography, 4 units enables you to get a Certificate, 5 gains the full Diploma. Students from previous courses have gone on to work in Photography or study at a higher level.
Where will I study?
You will study at the Wornington Centre.
What are the facilities and equipment like?
The college has a studio with studio flash lighting (at the Hortensia Centre), a portable studio kit which includes backgrounds, a traditional wet darkroom (at the Wornington Centre) and a digital darkroom with scanners and archival printers (at the Hortensia Centre).
Are any course materials online?
Handouts, briefs and additional research links are available via the student intranet.
What books and equipment do I need?
You need to own your own camera which can be either film or digital. It can be an SLR or a Rangefinder camera in 35mm or medium format. You will not be able to do this course with a compact camera.