Elective: Darkness + Time
Tuesday
Online
6/16/26
-
8/11/26
Date
6:30 PM
-
9:00 PM
Time
Price
$400
Duration
5
About the Course
This class explores the possibilities and implications of photography in near darkness and/or with long exposures. Look at historical and contemporary artists for ideas, work on an individual project, and get feedback in group critiques. Students should be familiar with exposure controls and have a tripod. Class meets every other week. More info: pagecarr@gmail.com. Minimum age 18.
Exercises in the first two weeks will include an ISO test, long exposures in existing light, and ways to make marks with added light during long exposures. Information about various sources of image noise will be provided.
To expand our awareness of the possibilities and challenges, we will look at thought-provoking work by some historical and contemporary artists.
Then each student will work on a short project of their choice with group critiques for the remainder of the course. These will encourage problem-solving, decision-making, and original thinking.
And you will learn to observe images closely and think about them.
Complete notes and readings will be provided. These will include links to substantive sources online.
Please note that this course will not include instruction in:
• night sky photography, though it would be good preparation for such work
• flash or studio lighting
• postprocessing, though noise reduction may be discussed
What you will need
• camera with adjustable shutter, aperture, ISO and EV controls that you understand how to operate
• tripod
• red light source (flashlight or headlamp) is recommended but not required
•. An hour or more / week to spend on readings, which include work by artists for inspiration.
• several hours / week to plan and make photos
• means of keeping notes
• means of joining the class meetings in zoom
• Flickr account for photo-sharing, the free version is fine.
• means of uploading JPGs
Some other accessories such as Neutral Density filters might be useful but not required
If you have questions or would like to see the course materials, contact pagecarr@gmail.com
Your Instructor
Page Carr
Page Carr is an Associate Professor of Photography and Media at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria. Her MFA is from the Rhode Island School of Design and her AB in History is from Bryn Mawr College.
She teaches Get out of Auto, Photoshop, and Digital Montage projects.
She is interested in cultural and physical aspects of visual perception and information, and her work in various media is documentary or experimental, or both.
"Learning to use any camera can be fun. My Photoworks classes are small and flexible to suit the needs of each student, and questions are always welcome."