Good times, sad times, hard times the roller coaster of the positions and practice module PHO701 draws to a close. Time to start preparing for the adventure that starts in January 2021 with the module PHO702 Informing Contexts.
The Oral presentation is done and marked the research proposal submitted along with the work in progress images. (http://roydonwoodford.co.uk)
The title reflects where we are. The module PHO701 has closed with the introduction to Informing Contexts, the next module. So it’s time to reflect on Positions and Practice and start to prepare. There is no let up and although the next module starts in late January we have a small snow capped mountain to ascend before then.
The take away from this module, that any practice that is not a producing redundant image needs context. This context may be the method of display or location of display or reason to exist as an informative image. With greater knowledge of the subject, and research in terms of planning, outcomes, possible collaboration partners, supporters projects can be undertaken with more success.
Creating a project proposal covering the next three modules has mapped out a path to follow and has become a guide to stay on track. I feel that it has also allowed foresight of possible hurdles that will need to be addressed.
To use Shakespeare, “I say, there is no darkness but ignorance”1 applies to photographic practice. Ignorance of the works of others leads to a darkness which negates the ability to see. This position demonstrates that this is about building a basic vocabulary of images and an solid base of theoretical knowledge to raise the darkness and provide the light. So read, read, read, take notes and read some more.
Contributing to forums and the topics explored each week have lead to a much greater understanding of photographic practice. When you have a group of peers reviewing an image or discussing a particular subject the plethora of ideas that come forward that expand the possibilities. Taking the “blinkers off”. Showing many more aspects means that you need to stop and see the image or topic, without assumption. Research ideas one has before leaping to conclusions. This is brought home during week 5, Power and Responsibility while discussing Jeff Mitchells migrant picture.
My conclusion, “We have already seen that once an image has been released the photographer has little control over its use especially when the release is to a corporation who has the sole intention of selling the picture. I feel that Jeff can not wash his hands as he has the choice of where they are placed.” is deleted when it comes to light that Jeff Mitchell was employed by the agency and had been tasked to take the images. Had I reviewed Jeff’s background this may well have been apparent.
There have been many comments regarding the CRJ, people not wanting to do it and although I do not find it the easiest part of the process, often finding that I am merely documenting events. I have to admit that it is becoming easier and has a lot of value to me. There are better ones but this one is mine.
Biblography
SHAKESPEARE, William. 2000. Twelfth Night. South Bend: Infomotions, Inc.
