A-Level in Photography (Art & Design)

Photography is a creative subject that allows those who study it to explore a visual language that communicates to a broad range of audiences. Students learn the technical skills to be able to take a range of different types of photographs, from still life, studio, landscape and portrait photography, to using studio lighting, natural light, camera techniques.

Students also look at different genres and styles of photography. Students will work in a range of ways to develop their own style of photography. They will learn camera technical skills along with how to compose a picture effectively.

There will be first hand experience of photographers’ work via exhibition visits. Trips will allow students to explore and capture a range of city and rural subject matter. Year 12 will allow the students to explore a range of photographic approaches while Year 13 is an opportunity for students to refine their skills based on a theme of their choice.

More info in our Arts Department options booklet: https://options.ashbyschool.org.uk/flip/leaflets/Arts.pdf

Photography involves a range of unedited and software manipulated imagery. They will learn about how to effectively take a photograph, the skills required to do so with lighting, staging and camera techniques and how they can experiment and display them in a variety of traditional and modern ways. They would learn about portrait, landscape and still life photography, documentary and photojournalism photography, photo manipulation, fashion photography and still and moving image.

• Component 1 NEA (coursework) 60%
• Component 2 EXTERNALLY SET TASK (Exam) 40%

For all Sixth Form courses, students must have five GCSE (or equivalent) passes at Grades 9-4, which must include Mathematics and English Language/Literature at a Grade 4 or above. A Grade 4 in Art is desirable but not essential (if taken at GCSE). If no previous creative experience, students will need to show the Head of Department a sample of their photography work they have done recently.

Students can take this course to complement many other Advanced Level subjects. This could lead to Higher Education in areas of Photography, Art and Design or more general or combined Higher Education courses. Students may choose a career related to Photography, of which there are a vast number. Photography will take time to complete due to the

practical nature of the subject; you need to consider what other courses you are taking as students can find it challenging balancing two or more practical subjects. You will need to be organised and focused and use your study periods effectively. The GCE is a recognised qualification that will encourage students to explore a number of transferable skills of creativity, communication, liaising with clients, research, debate, constructive criticism, time management, planning, negotiation and problem solving skills.

Students will utilise an understanding and knowledge of skills that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.

Students who study Photography could go on to be photojournalists, portrait, wedding, landscape, fashion photographers, involved in film making and television, promotional materials, design companies, independent photographers, underwater photographers, marine photography, photography for books, teaching, computer aided designers and more; becoming a part of the multibillion pound creative industry both UK wide and abroad.