DM 204: Typography, Graphics & Design

Overview

A good storyteller is described as one who can observe an event and tell its story. It is also said, unfortunately, that a good storyteller never lets facts get in the way of a good story. Somewhere in between these two extremes is where we should attempt to position our work. This course will guide the student to use the tools available to manipulate the digital image in an ethical and responsible way. Using image manipulation software such as Adobe Photoshop, an accomplished editor can completely change the context and meaning of an image. There are times and circumstances when this is permissible, and other times when it is prohibited. This course will define where the line is drawn and explain how not to cross it.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Manipulate an image in a myriad of ways using Adobe Photoshop and other image programs.
• Demonstrate an understanding of ethical image manipulation and also unethical practices.
• Explore the use of various words and phrases to change the context of a sentence and define which changes produce something illegal or unethical.

Course Requirements

Students must have access to a computer, either PC or Macintosh, and the software listed below in order to complete the projects. The digital still camera will be used for photo projects and may also be used to photograph student projects if they can't be scanned (such as a three-dimensional object).

• A digital still camera
• Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop - version CS, CS2, or CS3

If you do not own any or all of the required software packages, full versions can be downloaded from Adobe for a 30-day trial period.

Required Texts
DM 204 texts are available from the JIU/MBS bookstore