1. Overview:
With current technology producing and disseminating an image seems very simple. But how do we choose the right subjects? How do we frame the image? And which are the best channels for disseminating the image to generate effective results? Through both theory and practical exercises, this workshop will offer elements of image/photo composition, framing and post-production, together with technical hints for communications professionals.
2. Benefits of attending:
This workshop is for communications professionals who are involved in shooting, selecting or disseminating images through their work. It will help participants understand the context of an image and the issues related to it and how to create a message through an image by learning how to choose, frame, edit and disseminate it for most effective results.
During this workshop you will:
• Explore examples of successful and unsuccessful images;
• Understand the basic principles of composition;
• Learn about the principles of post-production;
• Apply what you’ve learned in a practical exercise.
3. Course outline:
• Image analysis. Positive and negative examples of images
In this section, we will explore a brief history of communication through images and how it has evolved. We will analyse the difference between successful images and unsuccessful images.
• Ethical issues: Humanitarian photography vs Photojournalism
We should always consider to context in which images will be used. In this section we will go through ethical issues related to images for NGOs and for generic news media.
• Composition, framing and emphasis
In this section we will explore how a good composition can help you to get the best message out. Practical exercises will involve picture taking (with smart phones or digital cameras).
• Post-production tools and effects
In this part of the workshop we will deal with basic image retouching tools to enhance the message. We will go through a quick overview of basic elements of Photoshop and analyse to what extent we can manipulate images. Post-production formats for different platforms (social networks, blogs, online magazines, exhibitions, books) will also be addressed.
• Practical exercise
Through an interactive picture taking exercise, participants will be helped to reflect on the value of the image as part the communication toolkit and strategy.
4. About the trainer:
Francesco Arese Visconti: an experienced and published freelance photographer, he has worked for important museums and public institutions. Member of the Union Suisse des Photographes Professionnels (USPP), he is the Head of the Media Communications department a.i. and Coordinator of the Photography Program at Webster University Geneva. As Part-time member of the research faculty at Webster, Francesco focuses his work on the migration processes in Switzerland and in Italy. His latest work is about the current flux of Italian migration in the Swiss Confederation. This work has been recently exhibited at the EXPO in Milan. He is the co-founder of Urbino Art Village, a centre for art and Italian workshops in Italy. Further information: www.aresevisconti.com.