Inspirational Photographers

For all of my classes, I start each week off with introducing my students to a new historic or contemporary photographer.  Depending on the weekly module, I will choose a photographer whose work is relevant to what the students are studying.

At the Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division’s, there is a course titled PH123: Principles of Digital Photography. During the 5th week, students are asked to photograph a still life for W5A1 and to photograph portraits for W5A2.  Given this fact, I introduce the PH123 students to historic photographer, Irving Penn.  A successful portrait and still photographer, Penn is the perfect example of a credible photographer for students to study during this week.

During Week 2 of PHOA113: Lighting at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division, students learn the difference between hard light and soft light.  Shelby Lee Adams is a great contemporary photographer for students to study during this week because he uses mainly hard light within his environmental portraits.

Overall, students have responded very well to the weekly inspirational photographers that I place in my classrooms!  I believe that by introducing students to new photographers each week, it will inevitably enhance their learning experience and help them to create their own eye and style.