Module 2: Capture

This module is part of the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CUA50925) at PI and provides a comprehensive exploration of all the aspects related to image capture. You will examine the concept of the Exposure Triangle and the relationship between aperture, shutter speed and ISO. By understanding light meters, stops, f/stops and the related settings, you will gain a deeper understanding of how your camera captures light, allowing you to control it with greater accuracy. You will also explore depth of field, sharpness and shooting modes.

Through immersive visual study, analytical exercises, and practical tasks, you will build technical abilities which will unlock your creativity at a later stage. This module emphasises the importance of accurate exposures and effective camera operation. You will examine the use of depth of field and how to control this essential element in photography.

By the end of Module 2, you will not only understand the Exposure Triangle but also feel confident in practically using it when photographing. Creativity in Photography is first achieved through a strong understanding of how to operate your camera, evaluate light using light meters, and make decisive choices considering the variables and downsides of particular settings. You will develop stronger technical skills and soon you will be creating aesthetically compelling images aligned with your intentions.

Module 2 Course Preview

Why This Module Matters

Understanding the exposure variables that affect how your camera captures light is an essential step to unleashing your creativity in your photography practice. By exploring how aperture, shutter speed and ISO relate, you'll:

Learn what each element of the exposure triangle can bring visually to your images.
Understand in practical terms what stops, f/stops, shooting modes, noise, depth of field are.
Expose images accurately and with intent by understanding the relationships between aperture, shutter speed and ISO.

As part of the Diploma, this module features assignments, tasks, and exclusive content designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and professional confidence to excel in the photography industry.

What You’ll Learn

Light Meters & Histograms
Utilise essential camera resources effectively to read light with precision.
Aperture & Shutter Speed
Understand how these variables affect the aesthetic quality of your images.
Depth of Field, Focus & Sharpness
Explore these elements in your images and learn how to control them.
Shoothing Modes & Camera Features
Break down images and understand camera operation and features.

What You’ll Do

Experiment & Analyse ISO Settings
Run specific test and understand how ISO settings affect images and light sensitivity.
Aperture & Depth Of Field
Identify how aperture affects depth of field and control the depth of focus in your images.
Shutter Speed & Motion
Explore shutter speeds in multiple scenarios and effectively capture moving subjects.
Bringing It All Together
Combine exposure triangle variables through practical exercises and challenge your skills.

Units Covered

This module integrates practical skills from the following accredited units:

CUAACD522 – Work with photomedia in creative practice
CUAPHI312 – Capture photographic images
CUAPHI403 – Enhance, manipulate and output photo images
CUAPHI521 – Make illustrative photo images for publication and display
CUAPHI531 – Apply visual communication theory to photo imaging practice
CUAPHI535 – Produce commercial photo images
CUAPHI536 – Provide photographic portrait services

These units are taught through practical tasks, interactive tutorials, visual references, carefully selected external links, and hands-on assignments, ensuring you develop both your analytical and creative abilities. Our modules combine high-quality images, diagrams and theoretical content in an easy-to-digest format.

Please note: The above list is not indicative of unit completion; most of our units are taught (in parts) across multiple modules.

Module Topics

In Module 2, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

The Exposure Triangle
In-Camera Light Meters
Digital Histograms
Reading a Histogram
Clipping
Average Reflective Metering
Scenario 1: Light Scenes
Scenario 2: Dark Scenes
Shutters & Aperture
Shutter Types
Focal Plane Shutters
Leaf Shutter
Exposure Stops
Shutter Speed Stops
Aperture Stops
F/Stop Values
The Advantage of Using F/Stops
Full & Third Stop Reference Table
Relationships & Depth of Field
What is Depth of Field?
Depth of Field (DOF) Overview

Circles of Confusion
Perceiving Sharpness
Sharpness
Depth of Field (DOF) Scale
Hyperfocal Distance
DOF Preview Button
DOF Preview & DSLR Cameras
DSLR Shooting Modes in Practice
Manual (M)
Aperture Priority (Av or A)
Shutter Priority (Tv or S)
Program Mode (P)
Exposure Compensation
Digital ISO
Understanding ISO
Increasing Light Sensitivity
Digital Noise
High ISO, Contrast & Colour Distortion
Auto ISO
Putting it all Together
Previsualisation

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 2, you will:

Build a solid understanding of shutter speed, aperture, and how to balance them for optimal exposure.
Know when to choose each shooting mode and recognise the strengths they offer.
Control depth-of-field in your images and capture motion with confidence.
Understand exposure key variables, attributes, and capture images with intent and purpose.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

As with every stage of your learning, our expert photography tutors will guide you through Module 2 with passion and insight. They’ll help you make sense of exposure variables, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, as well as tools to evaluate light, including the histogram, shooting modes, and other features, allowing you to take another step towards further developing your technical skills.