Nature Photography

Timetable

Module aim (aims)

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the principles and practice of nature photography. Students learn the fundamentals of photographing different components of the natural environment, including both biotic and abiotic elements. The course combines technical photographic knowledge with geographical and environmental understanding, allowing students to interpret natural phenomena through visual documentation. Particular attention is given to photographic equipment and field techniques, landscape, plant and wildlife photography, macro techniques, digital image processing, and the use of photographs in scientific communication, presentations and social media.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Basic knowledge of physical geography at the secondary school level.

Syllabus

Weeks 1-2: Introduction to nature photography and its role in documenting environmental processes; history and development of nature photography

 

Weeks 3-4: Basics of the photographic equipment – cameras, lenses and accessories;

 

 field techniques used in wildlife photography.

 

Week 5: Fundamentals of photographic composition and colour perception.

 

Week 6-7: Landscape, plant and macro photography techniques.

 

Week 8: Wildlife photography – birds and mammals.

 

Weeks 9-11: Practical field course in field photography  

 

Week 12-14: Digital image processing – editing techniques and software tools.

 

Week 15: Publishing photographs – scientific presentations, publications and social media. Role of ecological and geographical knowledge in nature photography. Final project presentations.

 

Teaching methods

 

The module consists of lectures and practical classes. Lectures introduce the theoretical foundations of photography and nature documentation, while practical classes focus on image processing software, field course in nature photography techniques and preparation of a final photographic project. Students also complete independent work outside classes.

 

Assessment methods

 

Student performance is evaluated through short tests, practical exercises, a final photographic project and a written exam covering lecture content.

 

Student workload

 

Lectures and practical classes: 60 hours

 

Independent work – software practice: 20 hours

 

Independent work – project preparation: 20 hours

 

Exam preparation: 30 hours

 

Total workload: 130 hours (4 ECTS)

Reading list

Coster, B. (2011). Creative Nature Photography: Essential Tips and Techniques. New Holland Publishers.

Janowski, H., Gawełda, R. Fotografia przyrodnicza dla wytrwałych. Jak skutecznie fotografować. Helion.

Weston, C. (2008). Fotografia przyrodnicza. Techniki pracy najsłynniejszych fotografów natury. Helion.

The Mountain Trail Photo Team (2011). Fotografia przyrodnicza i krajobrazowa. Galaktyka.