Scaling Up the Details
Value: 25%
Assignment Overview:
Bigger is not always better, but there are times where a decisive choice of a very large or very small scale can dramatically change the reading of an image. In this assignment, we will explore how both very large and very small prints can produce effective results if the relationship to subject matter, and the viewer’s body, is carefully considered. For this assignment, you will make one image that functions well when printed very large.
Learning Objectives:
You will:
- Learn to use the medium format camera
- Scan film, retouch scans, and colour correct for digital output
- Understand how scale can alter the reading of an image
Considerations:
- Pay careful attention to subject matter, and give consideration to the increased scale of a large print. This means paying close attention to composition, details, and relation of visual components within the image.
- Consider border size and white space.
- Mistakes are magnified at this scale. Be sure to focus properly, retouch scans, and sharpen for output. Make the most out of your proof (test) prints.
The main question: “what image do I make?” Don’t delay because you are waiting for the perfect idea to come along. Start with the best idea(s) you have, make and review digital images, and allow time for your project to develop. Don’t forget, you are developing a practice, which takes time and is a process. If you are at a loss stop by office hours (or make an appointment) and lets have a conversation. I am sure you have interesting ideas that can be articulated through this assignment.
Method:
Step #1:
- What you make an image of (subject matter) is up to you. The challenge is that the choice of scale MUST be significant considered in the work. Since there are many steps in the production of this work (film, scanning, digital post production, printing, etc) you can engage the processes and make interventions at any stage. This can include material interventions as well as digital ones.
- Ideas SHOULD be tested with a DSLR camera before you make images with film.
- After you have made some digital tests, use the medium format camera to make your images. You will be provided with 1-2 rolls of colour 120 film to accomplish this.
- Hand in your film ON TIME. This is essential. If you miss the deadline to submit film for arranged courier to Toronto you will be fully responsible for getting the film developed on your own.
Step #2:
- After your film comes back, scan the negatives, and make a digital contact sheet. Work with your image(s), and then make four (4) proof prints. These should include one showing the full image, and the rest offering to scale crops that provide details of interest, process, and/or editing (ie an area of your image that you want to see/show at 100% scale for editing purposes).
- After the Proof Print Review (critique), final post-production work for the large image printing will be undertaken.
Submit:
- Digital contact sheet showing digital camera test shooting. Include images that you feel were relevant in the production of the final image. (print on 8.5”x11” inkjet paper)
- Digital contact sheet (1-2) of medium format film images (printed on 8.5”x11” inkjet paper.)
- Four (4) proof prints (print on 8.5”x11” inkjet paper)
- One final large scale print (approx. 40×60″) , hung for the critique
Important dates:
Film for courier: Mon, Oct 15
Proof Print Review (critique): Mon, Oct 29
Files for print: Wed, Oct 31
Critiques: Wed, Nov 07
This assignment will be graded based on a rubric. Consult the rubric to see what you will be graded on and what the grade breakdown looks like. Attention to detail is essential.
10%
Having content & being prepared for all of the process deadlines
10%
Film (dig contact sheet)
10%
Proof Prints (Critique)
70%
Final Work
- Considerations Reflecting Proofing Stage Feedback – 10%
- Camera Work & Print Quality – 20%
- Concept & Creativity [With emphasis on considerations of large scale and detail] – 40%
a journey that wasn't 