B4919 - SEMINARS CULTURE (Gr.B)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the Seminar students will have acquired specific skills relating to the field of fashion cultures, with a particular focus on the analysis and interpretation of complex phenomena.

Course contents

This course offers a practical and conceptual introduction to creative and fashion photography, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experimentation and visual storytelling. Students will be introduced to key aspects of the professional photographic workflow—from concept development to studio production and basic post-processing.

The course aims to build a solid foundation in both the theoretical principles and technical skills essential for studio-based image-making. Participants will learn how to plan, execute, and finalize a photographic project, developing competencies in both individual creative direction and collaborative production.

Given the intensive format of the course, emphasis will be placed on core areas most relevant to the group’s learning needs, allowing for a balanced yet responsive approach. All students will be supported in the development of a complete individual photographic project, with guidance tailored to reinforce both technical and conceptual growth.

In addition to technical instruction, the course provides a critical overview of fashion photography, portraiture, and still life, encouraging students to explore contemporary and experimental approaches. Emphasis is placed on developing original, research-driven work that reflects personal vision and explores narrative and alternative visual strategies.

The course will cover:

• Fundamentals of photographic technique: manual camera operation, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance
• The creative process: concept development, moodboard creation, shoot planning
• Studio photography: artificial lighting, flash lighting setups, set design and construction
• Composition, light, and colour: image construction, colour theory, framing, point of view, visual elements
• Thematic studio exercises: practical sessions focused on portraiture, fashion, and still life
• Workflow and post-production: image selection, basic digital editing and retouching using Adobe Photoshop

Readings/Bibliography

The course is primarily practice-based. Supplementary digital materials—videos, slides, and curated readings—will support technical learning. Selected theoretical content will provide a concise introduction to the historical, cultural, and professional context of fashion photography. Image analysis, editorials, and behind-the-scenes materials will also be used to spark critical reflection and creative thinking.

Teaching methods

The course takes place in a fully equipped photography studio and combines technical instruction, practical exercises, case study discussions, and collaborative critiques.
Throughout the course, students will develop an individual photographic project, guided step-by-step by the instructor—from initial brief to final editing and presentation.

Assessment methods

To complete the course successfully, students are expected to: attend at least 80% of class sessions, actively participate in discussions and practical exercises, develop and present a photographic project.

Teaching tools

The course takes place in a fully equipped photography lab.
Students are required to bring:

• their own laptop
• an external mouse and/or graphic tablet for editing
• Adobe Photoshop installed (trial version is acceptable)
• their own camera, if available

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Office hours

See the website of Giorgia Ravaioli