VEX ROBOTICS PHOTO DOCUMENTARY CHALLENGE

CHALLENGE OVERVIEW

Create a compelling photo montage that documents the VEX robotics journey of your team - from design and construction through testing and competitions. This challenge focuses on developing your photography skills while capturing the human element and technical aspects of robotics work.

LEARNING RESOURCES

Photography Tools

• Smartphone cameras

• Digital cameras (if available)

• Basic editing apps (Snapseed, VSCO, Lightroom Mobile)

Photography Technique Resources

• Digital Photography School - Composition Tips

• Photography Basics for Beginners

• Action Photography Tips

• Portrait Photography for Beginners

Montage Creation Tools

• Canva - Simple design platform with templates for photo collages

• Adobe Express - Free tool for creating visual stories

• Google Slides - Accessible option for arranging photos

• Microsoft PowerPoint - Available through school accounts

CHALLENGE SEQUENCE

PART 1: Photo Collection

Each team member captures at least 20 original photos across these categories:

• People in Action - Close-ups of concentration, teamwork, problem-solving

• Technical Details - Macro shots of robot components, tools, and mechanisms

• Competition Energy - The excitement and tension of competition moments

PART 2: Curation

As a team:

• Review all photos

• Select the 20-50 strongest images that tell a complete story

• Provide constructive feedback on composition, lighting, and storytelling

PART 3: Creation

Create a professional-quality photo montage that:

• Follows a clear narrative structure

• Uses consistent visual styling

• Includes brief captions or explanatory text where needed

• Is formatted appropriately for presentation

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Final photo montage as a 2-3min video (MP4 or MOV)

• Collection of original, high-resolution individual photos

• Brief photographer's statement (150-200 words) explaining your visual choices and storytelling approach

• All photos must be in the same aspect ratio (choose either square format or landscape orientation)

EVALUATION CRITERIA

SUCCESS CRITERIA

Technical Photography Skills

• Composition: Consistently applies rule of thirds for dynamic image arrangement

• Focus: Subject is sharp and clearly defined in all images

• Lighting: Appropriate exposure with good contrast between subject and background

• Perspective: Demonstrates variety in shooting angles (eye-level, low angle, high angle)

• Framing: Effectively uses environmental elements to frame subjects

• Depth of Field: Controls background blur to emphasize subjects when appropriate

• Moment Capture: Successfully freezes action and authentic emotional expressions

• Consistency: Maintains uniform aspect ratio (square OR landscape) across all images

Storytelling Elements

• Narrative Structure: Photos collectively tell a complete story from start to finish

• Emotional Range: Captures diverse emotions (concentration, excitement, teamwork, challenge)

• Detail Shots: Includes effective macro photography of technical components

• Context Shots: Establishes setting and environment through wider shots

• Human Element: Documents authentic human interactions and expressions

• Technical Process: Clearly shows progression of robotics building and testing

• Visual Variety: Balances close-ups, mid-range, and wider shots

• Background Management: Eliminates distracting elements from frame or uses them purposefully

Montage Execution

• Visual Coherence: Creates a unified look through consistent editing approach

• Sequence Flow: Arranges images in a logical and compelling order

• Text Integration: Uses minimal, purposeful text that enhances rather than distracts

• Visual Impact: Creates memorable, striking images that command attention

• Technical Quality: Final images are properly exposed, sharp, and professionally presented

MYP Design photography challenge