To me the course “Digital Photography: Discover your Genre and Develop your Style” is at variance with Conceptual Art Photography.

Research

At Annex A, the proposed method of developing photographic practice for a conceptual art photographer seems comprehensive, covering a range of photography genres. However, there are several areas where it could potentially be improved and refined to better align with the needs of a conceptual art photographer.

1. Conceptual Focus: The focus on ‘Things’, ‘People and events’, and ‘Environment’ is too broad and could be more concept-driven given the audience is conceptual art photographers. It’s worth noting that conceptual art photography isn’t about the subject per se, but about the concept or idea behind the artwork. It could be more beneficial to focus on exploring themes, symbols, narrative structures, and the theoretical underpinnings of conceptual art.
2. Abstract Elements: The plan seems to lack the mention of abstract or non-literal photographic techniques. For a conceptual photographer, the ability to create and manipulate abstract elements in photos is essential. This can include techniques such as multiple exposures, motion blur, use of lights and shadows, color theory, and digital post-processing techniques.
3. Critical Theory and Context: It’s crucial to understand the wider context and critical theory that surround conceptual art. For example, the understanding of semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, is paramount in conceptual photography. The plan should include elements of art history, philosophy, and cultural studies to provide a deeper understanding of the context in which the photographer is working.
4. Storytelling and Concept Development: There seems to be no explicit mention of developing storytelling skills or learning to create and develop concepts. Conceptual photography often has a strong narrative or idea behind it. Developing skills in conceptualizing ideas and turning them into compelling visual narratives should be a part of the plan.
5. Review and Critique: A key aspect of developing as a photographer is receiving feedback on your work. Incorporating peer reviews, critiques, and discussions can help photographers learn from each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
6. The Business Side of Photography: The practical business side of photography seems missing. Topics like copyright, marketing, selling art works, or developing a portfolio and online presence would be beneficial for aspiring professional photographers.

To summarise, while the current plan provides a broad base of genres, for a conceptual art photographer it might be more beneficial to focus less on the specifics of each genre and more on developing skills in concept creation, storytelling, abstract elements, critical theory, and professional practices.

As for Critical Theory I expand on this a bit more:

Critical theory in the context of art and photography refers to a range of theoretical and philosophical perspectives that seek to understand, interpret, and critique art and culture. Here are some of the key aspects of critical theory for the conceptual art photographer:

1. Semiotics: This is the study of signs and symbols and their use or interpretation. In photography, semiotics can be used to analyze and create images that communicate specific ideas or concepts.
2. Postmodernism: This theory criticizes modernist ideals and encourages questioning of grand narratives and ideologies. It often involves the deconstruction and analysis of images, exploring how they reflect or subvert cultural norms and power structures.
3. Psychoanalysis: Concepts from psychoanalysis, such as those developed by Sigmund Freud and Jacques Lacan, can be used to explore themes of identity, desire, and the unconscious in art.
4. Feminist Theory: This theory examines gender inequality and the social and political structures that perpetuate it. In the context of art, it might involve critiquing the male gaze or exploring the representation of women and gender roles.
5. Marxist Theory: This theory involves the critique of capitalism and the exploration of class structures and struggle. In art, it might involve a critical analysis of the art market or the commodification of art and images.
6. Post-colonial Theory: This theoretical perspective deals with the effects of colonization on cultures and societies. In art and photography, it might involve exploring themes of identity, race, and power dynamics.
7. Queer Theory: Queer theory focuses on sexuality, challenging the heteronormative structures of society. In art, this could mean exploring non-normative sexualities and genders, and challenging traditional representations.

Incorporating these theories into the study of photography can provide a deep understanding of how images are created, interpreted, and received. They can offer valuable tools for conceptual art photographers who wish to create thoughtful and challenging work.

General

The Open University (OU) course is similar to and supersedes other online course materials, TZFM200 in particular. The described approach simplifies the topic of genre selection and style development. This presumably allows the photographer who is growing in confidence to connect which you might think is good. However, the 10 weeks is spread over the busy summer holiday period which can be a logistical challenge. But then it is not so easy to complete the course by the time the assessment comes around, That is unless one is super clear about creating a statement of intent (SOI) and following it through while doing a substantial edit that leads to 12 really good photographs that fit the SOI brief.

Annexe A

Here is the marketing information from a new Open University course delivered by FutureLearn in partnership with the RPS:

_{https://www.futurelearn.com/microcredentials/digital-photography-discover-your-genre?utm_source=Iterable&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=fl_marketing&utm_term=230627_MIC_TAR_EXTENDED}

Digital Photography: Discover your Genre and Develop your Style