Perhaps the most popular art form in the world, photography is also one of the most diverse in terms of equipment and techniques. This essential guide takes the novice student step-by-step through the process of creating pictures, from the choice of equipment to composition, development and mounting. The history and progress of photography as a technique and then as a specialist art form is examined looking at the style of famous professionals and the reasons their pictures have been successful. The book then covers every aspect of the practical process of picture-taking. The bewildering choice of equipment is explained, compared and assessed for its particular qualities: the merits of digital versus standard film, colour and black-and-white are weighed up. Composing a picture is examined in terms of both camera and subject; planning, position and lighting are covered alongside the limitations and possibilities of your equipment. Finally information on how to print negatives and digital pictures, maintain and store prints will ensure a fantastic end result.With suggestions, workshops and cunning tips and tricks of the trade, Foundation Course: Photography will clear up the mysteries of photography and start the enthusiast or the aspiring professional on the practical path to success.