In this 8th-grade photography course, students will explore creative expression through advanced techniques, mastering manual camera settings to capture dynamic images. With a focus on light painting, long exposure, and portrait photography, learners will experiment with different light sources and fast and slow shutter speeds. Students will also practice night photography, explore architectural photography, and develop a photo essay to document a story within their community. This course challenges students to take full control of their camera settings while deepening their understanding of the role photography plays in storytelling and historical documentation.

This live, online class offers a deep dive into advanced photography techniques and creative expression for 8th graders. Each week, students will be introduced to new concepts such as light painting, long exposure photography, and capturing movement using different shutter speeds. The course also integrates science and social studies, with projects like night photography to explore light and optics, and assignments that focus on documenting historical moments or architecture in the community.

Students will interact with the instructor through live demonstrations, interactive slides, and group discussions. Assignments are designed to encourage creative exploration, with opportunities to share work and receive feedback. The course will culminate in a personal project where students create a photo essay, and a final photography showcase where they present their work to classmates.

This course is part of the Focus Academy series offering a complete and comprehensive photography curriculum for all grade levels, Kindergarten through 12th grade. All of these courses meet grade-level academic standards for photography and integrate other art, English, math, science, and social studies skills. Learners can begin at any grade level or take the courses in sequence. 

Focus for 8th Grade Photography: Creative Expression and Advanced Techniques

Photography Skill: Mastering manual settings, creative photography techniques (light painting, long exposure)

English Skill: Writing reflective essays based on photo themes
Math Skill: Advanced angles and geometry in photography composition
Science Skill: Light and optics (understanding how light affects photos)
Social Studies Skill: Historical photography and documentation (capturing important moments)

This course encourages students to develop a unique photographic style while integrating science, math, and social studies for a well-rounded learning experience.