The secret to making a great digitized scan of a photo is to start with a great photo. As students learn about computer imaging, they'll have a better understanding of how to apply technology to their artwork. Sparks gives one computer demonstration to his Photo I students. Sparks' Photo II class focuses on photographic concepts and techniques in color.
Students photograph on color film and make color prints.
Polaroid film provides instant feedback so the photographer can check the photo's lighting and composition. Similarly, Sparks uses Polaroid film to teach his students how to proof lighting, film speed and composition. Digital photos, on the other hand, allow photographers to quickly and cheaply check their lighting and their composition on a computer screen. It costs nothing to view the photo on the computer, make adjustments and snap the final version. Because digital cameras don't use film, they're quick and a great tool for teaching studio photography.