It’s no wonder the camera controls for exposure confuse the beginning photographer. Consider the scales that are used-shutter speeds are based on the number 2, doubling or halving the numbers involved; while ƒ-stops are based on the square root of 2. The third component in exposure, ISO, is again based on 2, but this time divided in segments of thirds.
Imagine the confusion that would be caused if cars all had their brake pedals in a different locations and configurations. Unless students are required to all own the same make and model of camera the disparity in location of the exposure controls adds to the confusion.
Providing information on handling the camera controls for exposure clearly and succinctly at the outset of a high-school or university beginning photography class is necessary to reduce the students’ confusion. Computer generated (and presented) graphics offer such an opportunity through simulation, animation, and interactive presentation in the classroom.
Controlling Light is a public domain HyperCard stack for the Macintosh computer that illustrates the location of the camera controls for exposure on most models of 35mm cameras. It displays animated shutter, ƒ-stop, and camera meters. The stack has scrolling charts of the ISO/ASA numbers and equivalent exposures. A section on Using the Meter displays the effect of changing exposure on both a negative and a positive.
Ancillary materials are provided with the program as guides to classroom activities. The materials are supplied in a editable form so instructors can adapt them to suit their needs-modifying the handouts or adding information from class discussion to the quiz questions. The ancillary materials include:
• lecture outline
• lesson plan
• student activities
• student objectives/competencies
• quiz questions
• references
• instructional handouts
• glossary
System Requirements
Controlling Light requires a Macintosh computer with at least 2MB of memory, HyperCard 2.0 (or better), a 12 inch monitor and/or an LCD projection screen. A printer is required to produce printouts of the ancillary materials.
