Project 1 Reflection
Allison Williams
August 31, 2016
Introduction
Project 1 consisted of several different elements. First, I learned how to use a web-based program, www.weebly.com, to create a website. Then, I had to research and define several elements, principles, and styles of photography. Finally, I applied my knowledge while photographing the world around me. Many lessons were learned, while few challenges were faced during the duration of this project.
Challenges of Creating My Own Website
Fortunately, I have experience building websites using website builders like Weebly, Wix, GoDaddy, and Bluehost. I have created at least three websites prior to beginning the School Library Media course at The University of West Georgia. Building my first few websites was a challenge because I had absolutely no experience. It was a time consuming process that consisted of many trials and errors. Due to my previous
experience creating websites with easy-to-use website builders, I did not encounter many challenges while building my website for this course. However, I did find that having a slow processing computer hindered my workflow tremendously. Tasks that should have taken only a few minutes ended up taking a much longer time. I will be investing in a new computer very soon.
Lessons Learned
I learned more than I ever knew before about the visual elements, principles and styles of photography. At first, I was overwhelmed by the task of researching seven elements, nine principles, and nine styles. I did not think I would be able to retain so much information without getting them all confused. However, once I began taking pictures and analyzing them, I was able to make personal connections with my new understanding of information related to photography. With this knowledge I will be more intentional while snapping photos because I now know what to look for.
My favorite elements and principles are movement, texture, and repetition. These will be the elements I pay closer attention to while taking pictures. The hardest composition style to capture was dominant eye mainly because I did not want to include any close up shots of my family and friends on my website for privacy reasons.
The Value to My Own Practice
This project is valuable to my own practice in many ways. First, I have a better understanding of the design elements, design principles, and photography basic compositions. In depth research of each component has deepened my understanding, but most importantly, the hands-on experience of actually capturing images with designated elements, principles, and composition styles has had the greatest impact on my learning.
I plan to use this newfound knowledge in my own profession as an educator. Through this course, I will learn how to effectively implement digital photography into my instruction. I know that by consciously applying certain elements, principles, and styles can enhance the value of an image resulting in a better learning experience for my students. For instance, capturing a photo in its best light, so to say, makes an image more appealing to the eye; therefore, creating more interest for the student. As educators, we know that catching a student's interest is the best way to keep their attention on the task at hand. It also sparks creativity and imagination that may not have been there before. I plan to use the web building skills I learned from this project with my English Language Learners because visual aids, such as digital photographs, are an essential part of their English language acquisition. Using digital photographs in ESOL will get my students to talk more by generating conversation and they serve as a great alternate when realia is unavailable.
Conclusion
I enjoyed completing this project because it provided an opportunity for me to use my website building skills to present my project. Also, I learned about my likes and dislikes as an amateur photographer. Lastly, I found great value in applying the knowledge and skills I have obtained in my profession as an educator. Project 1 has been a great way to start of this digital photography course.
Allison Williams
August 31, 2016
Introduction
Project 1 consisted of several different elements. First, I learned how to use a web-based program, www.weebly.com, to create a website. Then, I had to research and define several elements, principles, and styles of photography. Finally, I applied my knowledge while photographing the world around me. Many lessons were learned, while few challenges were faced during the duration of this project.
Challenges of Creating My Own Website
Fortunately, I have experience building websites using website builders like Weebly, Wix, GoDaddy, and Bluehost. I have created at least three websites prior to beginning the School Library Media course at The University of West Georgia. Building my first few websites was a challenge because I had absolutely no experience. It was a time consuming process that consisted of many trials and errors. Due to my previous
experience creating websites with easy-to-use website builders, I did not encounter many challenges while building my website for this course. However, I did find that having a slow processing computer hindered my workflow tremendously. Tasks that should have taken only a few minutes ended up taking a much longer time. I will be investing in a new computer very soon.
Lessons Learned
I learned more than I ever knew before about the visual elements, principles and styles of photography. At first, I was overwhelmed by the task of researching seven elements, nine principles, and nine styles. I did not think I would be able to retain so much information without getting them all confused. However, once I began taking pictures and analyzing them, I was able to make personal connections with my new understanding of information related to photography. With this knowledge I will be more intentional while snapping photos because I now know what to look for.
My favorite elements and principles are movement, texture, and repetition. These will be the elements I pay closer attention to while taking pictures. The hardest composition style to capture was dominant eye mainly because I did not want to include any close up shots of my family and friends on my website for privacy reasons.
The Value to My Own Practice
This project is valuable to my own practice in many ways. First, I have a better understanding of the design elements, design principles, and photography basic compositions. In depth research of each component has deepened my understanding, but most importantly, the hands-on experience of actually capturing images with designated elements, principles, and composition styles has had the greatest impact on my learning.
I plan to use this newfound knowledge in my own profession as an educator. Through this course, I will learn how to effectively implement digital photography into my instruction. I know that by consciously applying certain elements, principles, and styles can enhance the value of an image resulting in a better learning experience for my students. For instance, capturing a photo in its best light, so to say, makes an image more appealing to the eye; therefore, creating more interest for the student. As educators, we know that catching a student's interest is the best way to keep their attention on the task at hand. It also sparks creativity and imagination that may not have been there before. I plan to use the web building skills I learned from this project with my English Language Learners because visual aids, such as digital photographs, are an essential part of their English language acquisition. Using digital photographs in ESOL will get my students to talk more by generating conversation and they serve as a great alternate when realia is unavailable.
Conclusion
I enjoyed completing this project because it provided an opportunity for me to use my website building skills to present my project. Also, I learned about my likes and dislikes as an amateur photographer. Lastly, I found great value in applying the knowledge and skills I have obtained in my profession as an educator. Project 1 has been a great way to start of this digital photography course.
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