Module manager: Mick Schofield
Email: M.P.Schofield@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will examine key current debates in relation to photographic practice and is aimed at developing a reflective approach to the production and consumption of photographic images. The module will consist of a series of lectures covering key themes and debates, as well as further developing digital image production skills and professionalisation of approaches, through the planning of a photography exhibition. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module will encourage students to develop a critically reflective approach to contemporary image production, and engage in current, cutting edge debates concerning issues such as new technologies, realism, artificial intelligence and the changing politics of representation. The module will combine the formal critical study of photographic practice with digital image production, and students will produce a series of works which reflect and critique current photography, developing their own self-reflexive approaches, including how to contextualise and present work for public audiences. Students’ critical engagement with contemporary photography will be evidenced through academic writing and project conceptualisation, while producing and editing a series of images which explore a key area of contemporary debate.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject: 1. Evaluate current debates in contemporary photography and relate these to changing practices 2. Produce and edit photographic images to an advanced standard 3. Discuss, contextualise and situate practice within broader photographic traditions, and aesthetic and ethical discourses 4. Create and present critically-informed photographic work for public audiences
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practicals | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Lecture | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Private study hours | 156 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 44 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Throughout the course of this module students will be engaged in guided reading and
practice- based exercises leading to two summative pieces of work. The period of private study will be a combination of critical and historical reading and the development of digital photographic practice towards the submission of their portfolio images.
Students will be monitored via the summative assessment process, receiving feedback at each stage. They will also be monitored via the tutorial and practical sessions as they develop their submissions
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Exhibition catalogue | 60 |
| Coursework | Exhibition proposal | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Resit is to repeat the assessment
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team