What will you do on this course?
Photography provides the world with a universal, visual form of communication. During this course, you will explore both traditional and digital photography looking at how processes have changed and kept up with the modern world. Time will be spent investigating the darkroom and camera-less photographic techniques along with lighting, editing and studio work using the digital SLR’s to ensure a broad understanding of the subject.
You will develop ideas that demonstrate an analytical and critical understanding of your own work and that of other artists. Through experimenting with a range of media and processes you will extend your skills and subject knowledge. Skills in reflection and refinement of work will see you progress and produce a portfolio which realises your intentions. The work will be presented in sketchbooks or through digital presentations. You also will develop drawing skills in order to produce storyboards, thumbnail sketches and/or diagrams to articulate ideas.
We have excellent Photography facilities, with spacious and light studios, a range of lenses and digital cameras available in and out of lessons. Dark room facilities including 35mm film and medium format cameras. Shared access to the traditional printing room for transfer collage and cyanotype techniques and large format digital printers.
How will you be assessed?
The A Level consists of 60% coursework and 40% exam. Candidates submit one major project which has a personal significance. This investigation includes a written personal study that must be between 1000 - 3000 words.
For the externally set assignment, candidates select one starting point from a question paper. They are given several weeks in which to plan and prepare for the exam. Students are given 15 hours of controlled time to plan and realise ideas into a final outcome. Coursework and exam units are internally assessed and externally moderated.
What could this course lead to?
Photography is a good foundation for any number of courses involving design, technology, artistic creativity and research. You could study HND/degree courses offering further opportunities in the field of Photography.
Photography can add to your portfolio for other higher-level studies in any creative subject. Careers in photography include: Art careers, Advertising, Commercial work, Editorial, Fashion, Film, Food, Forensic, Industrial, Architectural, Ariel, Portraiture and Wedding Photography, Sports and Travel.
Transferable skills
The photography A Level builds skills in project management, organisation, problem solving and creativity. Ideas are developed from research, practical application, analysis and critique, which are skills widely applicable to many areas and future employers.
What syllabus do you follow?
AQA 7205