ARTS-4388 & ARTS-6387 Assignment-2: Capturing Historical Photos and Surrounding Environments in Bath Using Specific Photography and Videographic Techniques

Posted by: Ping

Objective:

This assignment aims to explore and document historical sites and their surroundings using various photography and videographic techniques. You will focus on the Roman Baths or Jane Austen-related sites in Bath, capturing the essence of these historical locations. By the end of this assignment, you will have developed a deeper understanding of how to capture and convey the historical and cultural essence of significant sites through photography and videography.

Roman Bath Assignment

Historical Background: The Roman Baths and the Temple of Sulis Minerva were constructed around 60 AD after Julius Caesar’s conquest of Britain. The Baths and Temple were the center of the Roman city Aquae Sulis until the end of Roman rule in 500 AD. After falling into disrepair, they were rebuilt in the 12th century. The spring is now housed in an 18th-century building.

Tasks:

  1. Describe the Three Main Roman Features:
    • The Sacred Spring: Capture images highlighting the significance and natural beauty of the Sacred Spring. Utilize wide-angle shots to encompass the spring and surrounding architecture.
    • The Roman Temple: Focus on the structural and artistic details of the temple. Use close-up shots to emphasize intricate carvings and architectural elements.
    • The Roman Bath House: Document the layout and scale of the bathhouse. Employ panoramic techniques to showcase the full extent of the bathhouse.
    • Perspective Shots: Use low-angle shots to convey the grandeur and historical importance of the temple.
  2. Museum Objects:
    • Object 1: Select an artifact that represents Roman daily life. Describe its historical significance and capture it from multiple angles, including a macro shot to highlight fine details.
    • Object 2: Choose a religious or ceremonial object. Discuss its cultural importance and use lighting techniques to accentuate its features.

Jane Austen Scavenger Hunt

Historical Background: Jane Austen visited Bath in 1797 and moved there in 1801. The city is a prime example of Georgian architecture and was a hub of social life in the Regency era. Bath is referenced in several of Austen’s novels, highlighting its vibrant and sometimes morally questionable social scene.

Tasks:

  1. Number 4 Sydney Place:
    • Capture the placard and surroundings. Use a combination of wide shots and close-ups to provide context and detail.
  2. Georgian Garden:
    • Document what makes the garden Georgian. Use landscape photography techniques to capture the layout and plant life.
  3. The Circus and Royal Crescent:
    • Photograph these iconic architectural structures. Use symmetry and leading lines in your composition to highlight their grandeur.
  4. Assembly Rooms:
    • Capture the interior and exterior. Use low light photography techniques indoors to maintain the ambiance.
  5. Pump Room:
    • Document the Pump Room’s historical and social significance. Capture the atmosphere with candid shots of visitors and detailed shots of the architecture.
  6. Roman Baths:
    • Even if not entering, photograph the exterior and surroundings. Use a mix of wide shots and focused details to convey its historical importance.
  7. Regency Tea Rooms:
    • Capture the ambiance of having tea or lunch. Use food photography techniques to document the experience of enjoying a Bath bun or tea.
  8. Jane Austen Center:
    • Document your visit with a focus on the historical and literary significance. Capture the interior displays and the experience of “Tea with Mr. Darcy.”

Photography and Videographic Techniques:

  • Photography Techniques:
    • Wide-Angle Shots: To capture expansive views and context.
    • Close-Up Shots: To highlight intricate details and textures.
    • Panoramic Shots: To provide a comprehensive view of large structures.
    • Macro Photography: To focus on small, detailed objects.
    • Symmetry and Leading Lines: To enhance the composition of architectural photos.
    • Lighting Techniques: To create mood and emphasize details, especially in low-light conditions using ISO 1600.
  • Videographic Techniques:
    • Panning and Tracking Shots: To follow the layout and movement within spaces.
    • Time-Lapse: To capture the change in lighting and activity over time.
    • Interviews and Narration: To provide context and historical background.
    • Soundscapes: To capture ambient sounds that add to the historical atmosphere.

Submission Requirements:
You only need to complete either digital photo assignment or the video capture assignment through the excursion of Bath

  • Photographs: A minimum of 10 high-quality images, with captions describing the subject and technique used.
  • Video: A 5-10 minute video tour of the sites visited, including narration and soundscapes.
  • Written Report: A 2,000-word report describing the historical significance of the sites, the photography and videographic techniques used, and personal reflections on the experience. They can be work descriptions for your photographic works.
  • Submission: Submit your photographs and/or videos on the Flickr’s digital photography group by August 1: https://www.flickr.com/groups/pxstudio_digital-photography/