"Rome is one of the most photogenic and amazing places in the world,” says Donald Winslow, professor of photojournalism at John Cabot University (JCU).
He says developing a critical perspective, analyzing new cultures, and finding beauty in everyday life is a big part of the study abroad experience. When students study photography in Rome, they take part in the “process of becoming citizens of the world.”
If you’re interested in photography, there are few places that rival the architectural, monumental, and artistic reputation of Rome. Studying here can open your eyes to some of the world’s most spectacular sights. And with expert instructors and state-of-the-art equipment at your fingertips, you’ll learn to shoot, process, and share them with ease.
Here’s how university in Rome will help you hone your craft:
Location, Location, Location: Finding Photogenic Roman City Life
When you think of Rome, you may picture the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, or the Piazza Navona. The beauty of these sites is undisputed, and capturing it on camera is a worthwhile endeavor for anyone attending colleges in Rome. But a truly skilled photographer can find the artful aspect of any scene.
“John Cabot’s students are challenged here to go beyond the classic beauty of the ancient city, to capture significant moments of life,” explains Winslow. Rome is full of outdoor markets, street art, music venues and much more waiting to be documented in addition to its most famous attractions.
Learning the Technical Specs When you Study Digital Photography in Rome
When you study in Italy at JCU, you’ll also have access to a darkroom with five enlargers, along with digital projection equipment and indoor shooting tools set up in the art studio’s photography/graphic design wing. In-class exercises and field experiments will help you learn to choose the right equipment, settings, and conditions for getting the picture you want.
For example, you’ll learn that cloudy conditions are best for outdoor photography, as bright light from the sun can cause contrast problems. Try taking images at ‘the magic hour,’ the period before sunset when a distinctive hue pervades the Roman cityscape.
And importantly, don’t be afraid to experiment! Use wide-angle lenses for landscapes. Try long-exposure techniques, especially in busy areas where you want to emphasize a solid structure or a sense of motion. No matter where you look, Rome offers vantage points and creative inspiration perfect for a learning photographer.
Processing Your Photos at College in Rome: Beyond Social Media Filters
The beauty of digital photography is the wide spectrum and versatility of modern image enhancing effects. In JCU’s digital media lab, you’ll have access to iMac desktops featuring state-of-the-art image-enhancing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
With the expert guidance of photography and graphic design instructors, you’ll learn to skillfully adjust image values like saturation and light balance to achieve your desired results.
As you learn more about processing in your courses, you can even become a contender for prizes from competitions like the National Geographic’s annual ‘Traveler’ photo contest.
Show the world your perspective when you study digital photography in Rome!
You can visit JCU to get started.
