Spot News - Capturing Events as They Happen

Photojournalism / Technique | Duration: 4 weeks | Session: 12 November - 13 December 2008

It can spell high-energy and adrenaline for many a photographer - being in the moment of events taking place. With tips, techniques and plenty of practical application, this exciting course taught by veteran Associated Press news photographer, Ashwini Bhatia, will have you covering dynamic news situations, in no time flat. From company and organization newsletters to regional and larger newspapers and magazines of all kinds, this course is designed to guide you step-by-step to capturing telling images with dramatic affect. Whether you're already an aspiring news photographer or have been long wanting to try your hand at it, this comprehensively valuable online photography course is for you.

View from Above

Intermediate through Advanced levels of proficiency recommended.

Develop competence and confidence with your camera in fast-paced situations.

Learn to edit and effectively caption your photos on the run.

Add to your expertise as a photographer and your portfolio to prove it.

Toolbox Needs

Digital or film-based camera (Note: Scanner access required if shooting film).
Proficiency with aperture and shutter controls.
Prime (fixed focal-length) or zoom lenses in a variety of focal lengths from wide-angle to telephoto.
Curiosity for what's happening and a desire to tell (show) others about it.
Drive and energy to "get in and get involved."

Ashwini

Ashwini Bhatia (view profile)

Course Outline

Week 1: Preparation - what do you need to do before you cover an event?
Finding the right information about an event and getting ready for it. Knowing what to expect before you reach the spot. Brushing up your technical abilities.

Week 2: What and how to shoot. Good working methods.
Knowing what to shoot. Finding the right position to do it. Solving technical problems. Describing the event effectively. Challenging yourself to do something different.

Week 3: How much to shoot? Editing and researching while shooting.
Knowing when to stop. Refining your knowledge about the event as you shoot. Editing and selecting in-camera.

Week 4: Presenting your work: Selecting, editing and captioning your photographs.
Understanding workflow. Brushing up your photoshop skills. Must know tools while editing. Selecting photographs. Deciding when to crop. How much information to include in the captions? Making a package that offers variety.