jump to navigation

Unit Handbook

Title: Principles of Computer Graphics

Reference: IMD411

Level: 4

Credit points: 15

Weighting: x 1.0

Study time: 150 hours

Description

The aim of this unit is for students to consider what is a digital image, how is it generated, controlled, manipulated and visualized? Students will be introduced to the theory behind the creation of a digital image and the processing and formatting of captured and generated images. Students will also have the opportunity to review the work of digital artists and designers as well as discuss the ethical, creative and political implications surrounding image manipulation.

The unit aims to raise the students’ awareness of the principals of computer graphics, and creation in a variety of contexts.

Outline syllabus

Digitise images from a range of sources

Use digital image manipulation software creatively

Compression, Codecs. Colour palettes, Film Scanning, Digital Photography,

Anti-aliasing, Alpha channels

Save images in appropriate formats suitable for use in a range of applications

Investigate Motion Graphics techniques

Investigate the use of linear narrative through the use of animation

Create and composite linear animations from a range of sources

Demonstrate skills in appraisal and aesthetic judgemen

Method of delivery

Practical workshops; demonstrations; studio practice; projects; critiques

Foundation Degree assignment brief

Course: Foundation Degree Digital Media Production

Year: 1  Autumn Term

Unit Reference: Principals of Computer Graphics

Level 4

Assignment: Night Out

Commencement Date:7th October

Deadline Date: 16th December

Tutor(s): Liam Birtles

Brief

Your first task is to create a still image that gets across what it feels like to be out on the town for a night out. Your second task is to take this image and expand upon it to create an expressive piece of motion graphics.

This single image must embody the story of a night out you should try to explore as many way of digitally capturing source material as possible, from mobile phones upward. I would like you to explore the concepts of abstraction and surrealism. The animation should be a minimum of 10 seconds long, you need to generate all the source materials yourself (nothing from the internet), the piece can be realistic or not and it can draw on any style that appeals to you.

1. A record of the process of production as a set of entries in a category (titled the same as the unit) in your weblog. This entry should include research and experiment and the media generated in the development stages of the project, including media showing management and lots of written comment and analysis.

2. Finished production as movie online that is embed in you blog.

Assessment Requirements:

Image Production Presentation 100%

The assessment requirement must be passed at a minimum grade of 40% to successfully complete the unit.

Attendance to the Crit is mandatory and you will be expected to show your finished work on the

data projector, explaining and evaluating the processes you went through.

N.B. Failure to present work at the Crit or meet deadlines will result in a maximum PASS grade,

Assessment criteria (specific criteria related  to the learning outcomes  and linked to the

statement of generic  assessment criteria  matrix):

Evidence of realisation through application of technical knowledge and skills (g) - Through image production exercises and assignments (LO1, LO3)

Evidence of knowledge of technical processes (b) - Through exercises and exploration of image production and compositing software and techniques  (LO2. LO3)

Evidence of understanding through research and analysis. (c) – Demonstrated by presentation following research of the work of digital artists and the creative and political issues (LO4)

Reference material, including on-line resources

Key

Foley, J.D., Van Dam, A., Feiner, S.K. and Hughes, J.F., (1990) Computer Graphics: Principles and Practice, (2nd ed.). London: Addison-Wesley Publishing Company

Brinkman Ron, (2008) (2nd ed.) The Art and Science of Digital Compositing, London: Academic Press.

Recommended

Figgis, Mike (2007) Digital Film Making, America: Faber and Faber

Richard Rickitt (2000), Special Effects: The History and Techniques, London: Virgin Books.


Comments»

no comments yet - be the first?