A Level - Photography
Photography
- Recommended Entry Requirements 5 GCSEs at level 5 or above including 5 in Art, Graphics, or Textiles
- Type of Qualification A Level
- Exam Board AQA
What you'll study
You will begin Skills Sessions at the start of Year 12 to ensure you gain the same level of confidence using Digital SLR cameras, our Photography Studio and the Affinity editing software. The Skills sessions also allow your teachers to guide you into projects that best suit your interests and style; whilst allowing you to fully understand the skills and efforts needed to complete your coursework and exam.
- Coursework, (60% of overall grade)
A Personal Investigation into an aspect of Photography that is individual to each student and aims to explore a concept or theme. Through analysis of a variety of photographers, artists and movements, both contemporary and traditional, you will begin to critically understand and produce work in response. You will learn the skills of developing a sustained project and refining your ideas into finalised pieces. Topics chosen in the past - Fashion photography, Digital manipulation, Emotion and portraiture, Night photography and many more. In addition to this Personal Investigation you are asked to submit an essay of between 1000 – 3000 words related to your theme.
- Exam (40% of their overall grade)
You will need to choose one question or theme that is set by the exam board. You then have approximately 6/8 weeks to explore this new theme and produce work. The exam itself is a self-directed time of finalising your response to the theme.
You do not need a DSLR camera for this course but it does help to have your own equipment if you can. All students will be taught how to use these cameras and have the opportunity to borrow equipment.
What you'll love
Students who take on the A Level in Photography develop their analytical skills, problem solving and confidence. We ask that students work to the best of their ability as we aim to create a culture of independence and experimentation.
You will develop as a photographer with teachers and specialist equipment that fosters your talents and personal interests. No one on the course does the same work as everyone is celebrated as a unique, creative individual!
Why take it?
A Level in Photography gives students opportunity to explore elements such as composition, lighting and viewpoints using a variety of technical photographic equipment whilst identifying their own photographic style. In 2020, over 75% of our students went onto Further Education degrees or apprenticeships with the Creative Industries. A Level Photography can lead to a wide range of careers, such as photo-journalism, fashion photography, freelance photography and more.
Photography pushes you to observe the world around us and how we interact as human beings. Skills in creativity and critical understanding are top priorities for universities and future employers.
Click the link below for the Photograpy specification
