Instructions for the cloud assignment: Photograph a cloud. In fact, photograph clouds as often as possible. You will soon discover that it is not easy to do but that it is a very pleasant diversion from everything else that you do. Do keep track of where, when, and how the image was made. A report is required. Seek atmospheric sounding data and discuss the physics revealed. Exceptional images made prior to this course are acceptable; document them as best you can.
The most famous "cloud" photographs were made in black and white by the legendary early twentieth century New York art dealer, photographer, and husband of Georgia O'Keefe, Alfred Steiglitz. He called them "equivalents" and considered them to be music. Sunrise and sunset are sometimes quite colorful or even extraordinary, but difficult to picture in a satisfying way. During the day, individual clouds can be extremely interesting. In the course of this assignment you will discover what the English writer and amateur photographer George Bernard Shaw once said about the photographer: "The photographer is like the cod (fish) who lays a million eggs so that one may hatch." So, keep looking up and keep pressing the button. And, if you have access to an extreme wide angle lens as well as a telephoto lens, use them as needed and as often as possible.
Clouds require that you think outside the box.