Photography (Art and Design

LINEAR A-LEVEL

The course introduces students to a variety of experiences exploring a range of photographic media, techniques and processes. Students will be encouraged to explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to Photography and a wider range of art and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples.

The course will enable students to develop their own personal responses through the use of digital techniques to produce images using digital cameras and photo manipulation software such as Adobe Photoshop.

Students’ work will be supported by sketchbooks/workbooks/journals as well as first hand experiences of relevant works. There is no specific requirement for candidates to demonstrate drawing skills in this endorsement unless they wish to.

Please note there are no dark room facilities available in the department so we do not offer chemical based photography.

Areas of Study

Candidates are required to work in one or more area(s) of Photography, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas. a) Portraiture b) Landscape photography (working from the urban, rural and/or coastal environment) c) Still-life photography, working from objects or from the natural world. d) Documentary photography, photo journalism e) Experimental imagery

Component 1 Personal investigation (60% of A level)

All candidates will produce work exploring a range of photographic techniques including digital manipulation using a range of photographic equipment. The integration of historical, critical and contextual studies is fundamental to the qualification.

Candidates will produce a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme of their choosing and supported by 1000-3000 words. The quality of written work and the ability of the candidate to reflect upon their own work and to identify connections with that of others will be assessed.

Component 2 Externally Set Assignment (40% of A level)

A theme will be set by EDEXCEL and a preparation period will be given in order for students to develop ideas. Fifteen hours of unaided supervised time and a realisation period in order for students to produce final imagery.

Assessment

Each unit will be assessed separately. All units will be marked by the Centre and moderated by Edexcel.

General Notes

Skills: Previous experience of Photography is preferable but not essential.

Equipment: It is desirable that the candidates equip themselves with a digital SLR or bridge camera and have access to a colour printer and photo paper outside of the classroom in order to pursue independent work.

Exam Board - EDEXCEL

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in GCSE Photography. Students who have not studied Photography at GCSE level should submit an application with a portfolio.