Module 4: The Film & Digital Process

This module traces the development of photography from its earliest experiments with light-sensitive materials to the sophisticated digital imaging systems we use today. By understanding how images were once captured, processed, and printed, you’ll gain valuable insight for your photography. We then move into modern digital capture, examining how different sensor technologies interpret light, how the digital “darkroom” replaces traditional printing, and how choices in colour space and exposure control influence the final image.

Why This Module Matters

Learning essential aspects about photography history, analogue image capture elements, and understanding digital capture's advantages and disadvantages are essential steps in your road to becoming an expert. In Module 4, you’ll:

• Study historical image-making and how early photographers worked having technical limitations.
• Understand how film and digital differ, how film is processed, including darkroom printing and safety.
• Interpret tonal range and exposure more accurately through histograms and practical experiments.
• Understand colour spaces, RAW files, and how related controls and settings affect output quality.
• Apply theoretical concepts in practical tasks that challenge you creatively.

What You’ll Learn

• Photography Background & History
  Discover how early photography devices led to contemporary digital photography.
• Digital Sensors & Image Capture
  Compare sensors, scanning back systems, and how they convert light into digital information.
• Film vs Digital
  Study their performance differences regarding contrast, texture, and dynamic range.
• Colour Space Settings
  Learn colour space differences and when to use the available options.

What You’ll Do

• Evaluate Exposure Accurately
  Analyse exposure through practical tests and post-production adjustment limitations.
• Interpret Histograms
  Use histograms to make informed decisions when shooting digitally.
• Analyse Visual Influences
  Evaluate how photography is influenced by other art forms.
• Combine Acquired Knowledge
  Present professional-quality images while executing practical exercises.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 4, you will:

• Know photography history's most important facts.
• Understand the key differences between film and digital photography.
• Be familiar with all sensors and how they capture light.
• Use histograms efficiently to control image exposure.
• Understand the different colour spaces and how to use them.

Guidance Every Step Of The Way

The technical side of photography can be challenging, but it's essential to allow you to express yourself through your camera. You won’t face the challenges alone. Our expert tutors will guide you step by step, from exposure to post-production and beyond. With their support, you’ll gain the confidence to present professional images.