The Photo Student Handbook

The Photo Student Handbook is a collection of short, easy-to-read chapters filled with expert advice on enhancing image-making skills and launching a career as a professional photographer.
Designed to help students grow beyond the technical aspects of photography, this book presents a variety of methods and strategies proven to strengthen visual awareness, engage creative thinking, and deepen the conceptual aspects of image-making. Topics include how to:
- improve the ability to see actively
- understand light as a main character
- cultivate a creative mind
- make a standout portfolio
- unpack critical theory
- find and develop a creative voice.
Packed with valuable tips, insights, and advice from over a hundred instructors, professionals, senior students, and experts, this book is engineered to help instructors guide students step-by-step through the methods and strategies needed to achieve creative success both in the classroom and the real world.
This book is ideal for intermediate- and advanced-level photography students and instructors alike. Visit the accompanying website www.photostudent.net for extra chapters, exercises, quizzes, and more.

Garin Horner is an award-winning educator, photographer, and author. He is the Director of the Adrian College Center for Effective Teaching and Vice-Chair and Secretary for the Midwest Chapter of the Society for Photographic Education. His previous works include The Photography Teacher's Handbook and Teaching Photography, 2nd edition.

PART 1: Explore 1. This Book's Audience: Students and Instructors 2. How to Use this Book: Advice on Taking Advice 3. 10 Things Your Instructors Want You to Know 4. 10 Things Your Instructors Don't Tell You PART 2: Discover 5. Introduction to Photography and Why It Matters 6. What Kind of Photographer Are You? 7. Your Photographic Voice 8. Find Your Audience 9. Meet Your Community PART 3: Practice 10. Active Seeing 11. Develop Your Perception of Light 12. Critique and the Seven Cs 13. Tips for Unpacking Critical Theory PART 4: Create 14. The Photographer's Brain - A User Manual 15. Your Creative Mind 16. Cultivate Your Creativity 17. Creative Possibilities 18. Superpowers Need Superfuels! PART 5: Learn 19. How to Ace Assignments: Be PREPARED 20. Be a RISK Taker 21. Motivation Leads to Productivity 22. Time and Energy Management 23. Make a Standout Portfolio 24. DYNAMIC Titles PART 6: Career 25. My Photography Speaks for Itself. Doesn't It? 26. Advising for Success 27. Become Highly Qualified 28. Launch Your Career Path PART 7: Advice 29. Guidance on Your Photography Practice, Assignments, and Critique 30. Essential Advice on Career, Tools, and Mentors