NCFE Level 1 was all about the basics. Now we’ve got to try to master them. By the end of the three terms, I’d love to instinctively know how, say, certain lens/aperture combos will work together. But, frankly, I will be truly chuffed if, having pictured the shot that I’m after, I get even halfway close to achieving it.
We still have to keep a blog over the year – hence these ramblings – and three terms means three projects.
First up: The Postcode Project.
Designed to get us exploring what’s on our doorstep; we’ve been instructed thus:
Find where you live on an A to Z map. All the photographs for this assignment must be taken within the area defined by the double page on which you live. It is an opportunity to explore your familiar neighbourhood with fresh eyes and create some stunning photographs.
There’s just one problem: who even owns an A to Z map these days? Not me, that’s for sure. But a quick Google suggests I have this to play with: too much to chose from, basically. 
So, having hardly looked at my camera for the past few months, I’m now back to lugging my Canon EOS 600D everywhere but the loo. Even when I’m camera-less, I’m still looking at my world in a different way; searching for themes to try out for the project. From road-signs to rubbish, God knows what I will end up going with. But, by December, I must have a grand total of 11 images and have fulfilled the following tasks:
Task 1: Depth of field, Selective focus
Present a series of 3 images in response to the title using Depth of field and/or selective focus. Techniques to consider:
- Working with aperture to create required depth of field.
- Working with manual focus in order to create required focusing point.
- Record all the research and development in your workbook
Task 2: Shutter speed
Present a series of 3 images in response to the title using slow or fast shutter speed techniques. Techniques to consider:
- Multiple exposures
- Movement
- Painting with light
- Record all the research and development in your workbook
Task 3: Final take
Present a series of 5 images in response to the title using chosen by you photographic techniques. Allow for your creative input in any photographic application. You can use any of techniques you are familiar with. You can research and apply in and off camera manipulation. Record all the research and development in your workbook
Right. Better get cracking…
Life Through a Lens 