CAVAD students practice craft at pool shoot
Riverside, Calif. (Oct. 9, 2017) — The College of Architecture, Visual Arts & Design (CAVAD) took learning outside to the cool, crisp waters of the Lancer Aquatic Center at its annual pool shoot on Oct. 7.
Michael Berger, program director of graphic design and photography, said pool shots require students to get out of their comfort zones.
“There is a tendency in the classroom or studio for the shots or images to come easy or come to them,” Berger said. “In the pool, they have to be intentional in the planning and execution of their concept.”
Students had the opportunity to shoot on the pool deck, shallow water or deep underwater.
“The students must learn to direct models while dealing with difficult elements such as treading water,” Berger said. “They learn to fight for the shot and assert themselves with their camera.”
For Akaylia McClellan, a freshman graphic design major, it was the first time she operated equipment designed for underwater shooting.
“I never shot underwater before, and I thought it was cool to learn the techniques,” McClellan said.
Cameron Cash, a graphic design sophomore, took pictures underwater.
“Working with light on the water is a lot harder than expected; it brings a whole other realm of light,” Cash said.
Berger said that the shoot is also an opportunity for students to build camaraderie.
“It’s a great time of fellowship, and we have fun in the process,” Berger said. “The facilities are excellent, and it is a great opportunity for students to capture different types of images.”