Digital Photography

Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

Digital
Photography
Developed by:
Melissa Stebbins
09 March 2016

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

Table of Contents
Overview
Pre-Test
Briefing Day1
Technical Reading Day (TR) 1
Resource Media Activity Day 1
Technology Learning Activity Day 1
Debriefing Day 1
Briefing Day 2
Readings Day 2
Resource Media Activity Day 2
Technology Learning Activity Day 2
Debriefing Day 3
Briefing Day 3
Readings Day 3
Resource Media Activity Day 3
Technology Learning Activity Day 3
Post-Test
Debriefing Day 3

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

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Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

Module Overview

INTRODUCTION:

Digital cameras were first created in 1975. The first DSLR was announce to the public in 1999. Since that time the
technology has continued to improve and become more affordable. Today it is the norm for recording images. This
SDLA will introduce you to:

DSLR camera parts

Camera settings
Design principles

You will have an opportunity to learn about each one of these areas using a DSLR camera.

OVERVIEW
This notebook contains a three-day SDLA that consists of a
wide variety of activities, as indicated by headings, located in
the upper right corner of the page. These activities are to be
completed in the order in which they are located in the
notebook. When one activity is completed, proceed
to the next.

Equipment List:
(What you will need today)

DSLR Camera
SD Card

The last section of the notebook is entitled Enrichment

Activities. If all of the daily activities are completed early,
turn to that section and select one of the enrichment
activities. Follow the instructions provided. This is a selfdirected learning activity and you should work at a pace
that is challenging but safe.
Sections
Day 1
Overview
Pre-Test
Briefing
Reading Selection
Resource Media Activity
Technology Learning Activity
Debriefing

Day 2
Briefing
Reading Selection
Resource Media Activity
Technology Learning Activity
Debriefing
Integrated Activity

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Day 3
Briefing
Reading Selection
Resource Media Activity
Technology Learning Activity
Debriefing
Post-Test
Enrichment Activities

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

Pre-Test
Directions:
Each person participating should answer the pre-test questions found in the SDL Notebook. Complete these
individually. DO NOT write in the Team Module Notebook. Read each question carefully and mark your answer on
the Scantron sheet provided by your instructor. Answer all of the questions, even if you are not sure of the answer.
The results of this pre-test will not be counted in your final grade. You will receive credit for completing the quiz so
please try to answer the questions to the best of your ability. For True-False questions, mark A if the answer is true
and mark B if the answer is false. For Multiple Choice questions, mark the appropriate letter that best answers
the question or statement. To answer Matching questions, mark the appropriate letter or letters that most accurately
answer the question.

TRUE OR FALSE
1.
2

DSLR cameras and SLR cameras are the same thing.

When taking pictures of moving objects, you should use a faster shutter speed to prevent blurring the

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

image.
When taking photographs outside, it is best to keep the sun behind you.
Design principles are not important in photography.
All photographs should be taken horizontally.
Light is important in photography.
Aperture is control by changing the f stop setting.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
8.

The first camera setting you adjust before taking photographs is________.
A. f stop
B. aperture
C. ISO
D. shutter speed

9.

The setting to adjust how wide the lens opens is called ______.
A. aperture
B. bulb
C. f stop

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

D. parallax
10.

The part of the camera the photographer looks through to what the picture will look like is called the
____.
A. lens
B. viewfinder
C. LDC screen
D. mirror

11.

To take a photograph outside in bright sunlight use ISO speed of _______.

A. 1600
B. 800
C. 100
D. 400

12.

You are taking a picture of a race car. Which shutter speed would be most appropriate?
A. 1/30
B. 1/500
C. 1/60
D. 1/200

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

MATCHING
13.

Measured in fractions

A. ISO

14.

Tells the photographer if the settings are correct for exposure

B. shutter speed

15.

Controls how much light hits the sensor

C. reflex mirror

16.

Photographer looks through the same lens that exposes the film

D. aperture

17.

Determines how long the sensor is exposed to light

E. Memory cards

18.

Used in place of film in DSLR cameras

AB. LCD screen

19.

Shows a preview of the recorded image

AC. Light meter

20.

Gives the SLR its name

AD. F stop
AE. SLR

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology & Engineering Education

Day 1
Briefing
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Most student have had some exposure to photography, whether they have taken photos with their cell
phone, point and shoot digital cameras, or used a digital camera with manual settings. Students using
the Digital Photography SDL will not only learn the basics of photography but will also be provided with
information on basic composition that can be used in photography or videography.

AGENDA OF ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1 agenda includes the following activities:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Read Team Overview (Note: Done previously)

Complete Team Pre-Test (Note: Done previously)
Read Team Briefing.
Complete the following Resource Media Activities (RMAs):
a. Read selection entitled, History of Photography
b. View video entitled, Canon EOS Rebel T3 Tutorial Part 1 of 2
5. Read Team Debriefing:
a. Read Summary and Conclusions.
b. Complete all assignments noted.

SDL Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Technical Reading Activity

Day 1
Directions:
Each person participating should read the following material prior to performing any activity within the
SDL activity. The information you will learn will help you to understand WHY you are doing what you are
doing before you learn HOW to do the activity.

History of Photography
The first photograph was made by Frenchman Joseph Nicephore Niepce in 1826. It took eight
hours of exposure to record the image (today it takes a fraction of a second). The next photographs
were daguerreotypes after their inventor, a Frenchman named Louis Daguerre. These were printed
on metal plates. Photography was limited to the professionals and the affluent until the late 1800s
when the first Kodak camera was introduced by George Eastman. It came pre-loaded with enough
film for 100 pictures. After taking the pictures, the customer would send it back to Kodak who would
remove the film and develop the film and print the photographs. In 1947 the Polaroid Land camera
was release. It made black and white prints in less than a minute with no negative.
Another invention came in 1947 with the release of the Polaroid Land Camera. This camera,
invented by Dr. Edwin H. Land, made a black and white print in less than one minute without a
negative. Today Land cameras are known as instant cameras. The instant cameras of today take
color pictures and are gaining popularity once again. Although it is a much smaller market than
digital photography.
In 1975, Steven Sasson built the first digital camera prototype for Eastman Kodak. It had a CCD
sensor and took 23 seconds to record a single black and white image. It used cassette tapes that
could hold 30 images. The Kodak DCS 100 was the first true digital SLR readily available to the
public and was released it 1991. It worked by capturing 1.3 megapixel images using the CCD sensor
and transmitting the data to an external storage bank that was worn over the shoulder on a strap. It
was available in color and black and white and cost over $20,000.
The Quicktake 100 was released by Apple in 1994 and became the first successful digital camera.
In 1997, the first cell phone image was taken and shared by Philippe Kahn. Nikon was the first
company to produce a 2.0-megapixel resolution consumer camera in 1999. (Kodak had previously
released a 6.0-megapixel camera that weighed 3.75lbs which made it not so consumer friendly.)
Canon made digital history in 2003 when the release the first affordable digital SLR to the public.
Anyone who had a 35mm Canon SLR and had multiple lenses could now buy a Canon DSLR and
still use their existing lenses. Improvements in digital photography have led to smaller cameras,
more megapixels, greater memory and lower costs.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Resource Media Activity - Day 1

INTRODUCTION
For the next few minutes, watch the following video clip: (can be web site, etc)
Canon EOS Rebel T3 Tutorial Part 1 of 2 https://youtu.be/9XAAxP5Chds
Once you have watched todays selection, both you and your partner should collaborate on answering
the following questions. DO NOT write in the Self Directed Learning Notebook. Answer these questions
carefully as they will serve as a study guide for the post-test.

STUDY GUIDE QUESTIONS:

1.

Tv on the camera mode dial stands for:

A. television mode
B. time variable mode
C. shutter priority mode
D. time video mode

2.

The mode that takes care of all of the settings for the photographer is ______________.
A. manual
B. full automatice
C. Close-Up
D. Av

3.

To put a lens on the camera body you should align the coordinating colored shapes such as red circle or
white square.
A. true
B. false

4.

You should always install the battery with the camera turned on?
A. true
B. false

5.

The dial right above the shutter fire button controls which setting? (two or more correct)
A. shutter speed
B. aperture
C. ISO
D. focus

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

6.

Av mode on the camera mode dial stand for what?:

A. audio visual
B. apple video
C. aperture video
D. aperture value

7.

The mode that takes care of all of the settings for the photographer is ______________.
A. manual
B. full automatice
C. Close-Up
D. Av

8.

When in Av mode the photographer sets the aperture and the camera automatically reads the light and
set the __________ setting.
A. shutter speed
B. ISO
C. shooting mode
D. display

9.

The camera comes with several automatic modes for specific types of shooting.
A. true
B. false

10.

Manual mode is the setting where the photographer controls all of the settings.
A. true
B. false

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Technology Learning Activity - Day 1

INTRODUCTION:
Todays Activity will involve using a Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR. You will review the
diagram and find the corresponding part on your camera body and lens. As with all
equipment precautions should be taken. Some parts of the DSLR are delicate.
1. You will need to check out a camera bag and equipment from the instructor.
2. During this session, you will be using the diagrams provided to familiarize yourself with the camera and its
functions. You may also use the CD rom that came with the camera.
3. Once you learn the parts of the camera you will move on to camera settings and then on to how to focus.

EQUIPMENT CHECK:
The following equipment will be used to complete todays activity.
1. Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR camera
2. Camera accessories
3. Camera bag

STEP-BY-STEP PROCDURE:
1. Open the equipment bag.
2. Take out the camera body and the lens.
3. Remove the body cap and the lens contact cap.
4. Attach the lens to the camera body by aligning the colored dot or square depending on what symbol the lens has
on it.
5. Match the part of the camera to the diagram provided and familiarize yourself with their location.
6. Turn the camera on and change mode dial.
7. Watch the display as you change the modes and note the differences.
8. Change the lens from autofocus to manual focus.
9. Try focusing the lens in each mode.
10. Note the differences in your notes.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Cannon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR

There are several different types of cameras, but all of them have many of the same
parts. A camera is basically a light-tight box with sensor to capture images, a lens to
focus the light onto the sensor, and a shutter that opens and closes to control the
amount of light exposing the film. All cameras have a viewfinder which the
photographer look through to see what the picture looks like and many digital cameras
also have a display screen now. Many photographers like to use different types of lenses
such as:
Wide-angle lenses give a much wider view of a subject and are often used
for photos of scenery such as skylines or mountains.
Telephoto lenses are similar to a telescope. They make the subject appear
closer.
Zoom Lenses are similar to telephoto lenses, except they are adjustable for
normal or telephoto views.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Many cameras sold today are automatic cameras, intended mainly for amateur
photographers. These cameras automatically adjust most, if not all camera settings.
Other cameras, used by professionals and serious amateurs, require that the
photographer adjust the camera settings according to the ISO (used to be type of film)
used, available light, and type of subject. When adjusting the camera settings
manually, the first thing to do is set the ISO. The higher the ISO number the less light
you need. ISO numbers like 1000 or 1200 are best for low-light situations, such as
pictures taken at night or indoors. Slower speeds like 100 or 200, are good for pictures
taken in bright light.
The next settings are the shutter speed, which determines how long the sensor is
exposed to light, and aperture, which determines how wide the shutter will open. These
two setting work together according to the photographic conditions. Shutter speed is
set manually by a dial on top of the camera and measured in fractions of a second.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Debriefing Activity - Day 1

Summary:
Photography had evolved over the centuries continuing to take better pictures with smaller and smaller
cameras. While the camera parts get smaller the megapixels and resolution continue to go up. Like all
technology digital photography technology is growing exponentially.

Assignments:
The following assignments should be completed as described:
1. Return all equipment, supplies and instructional materials to the proper location.
2. Make sure you have logged out of all programs and applications on the computer.
3. Organize your notes and RMA questions into your lab binder.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Digital Photography
Communications Systems

Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Day 2
Briefing
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

AGENDA OF ACTIVITIES:
Activity 1 agenda includes the following activities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Read Team Overview (Note: Done previously)

Complete Team Pre-Test (Note: Done previously)
Read Activity 1 Quotes and Anecdotes (Note: Done previously)
Read Team Briefing.
Complete the following Resource Media Activites (RMAs):
a. Read selection entiteled, Brief history of automated manufacturing)
b. View video entitled, Introduction to Manufacturing
6. Read Team Debriefing:
a. Read Summary and Conclusions.
b. Complete all assignments noted.

SDL- Self Directed Learning Activity

Hybrid Vehicle Systems

Computer Numeric Control (CNC)
Pittsburg State University Technology Education

Technical Reading Activity

Day 2
Directions:
Each person participating should read the following material prior to performing any activity within the
SDL activity. The information you will learn will help you to understand WHY you are doing what you are
doing before you learn HOW to do the activity.

TEAM Technology Encounters and Activities Module

Hybrid Vehicle Systems

Computer Numeric Control (CNC)
Pittsburg State University Technology Education

TEAM Technology Encounters and Activities Module

Hybrid Vehicle Systems

Computer Numeric Control (CNC)
Pittsburg State University Technology Education

TEAM Technology Encounters and Activities Module