Photography

2021-2023 Specification: Head of Department: Edexcel 9PYO Miss Chloe Mordue

Who should study this course?

Although no previous experience of photography is required, those who have enthusiasm, creativity and the discipline to master the technical aspects of the subject will be well-suited to this course. Other subjects that combine well are art, media studies and design and technology. As the coursework includes a certain amount of written analysis and two essays, a strong performance in English GCSE is beneficial.

The study of photography develops a considered viewpoint when looking at the world around us. As such, it is a subject that continually documents the aesthetic characteristics of life such as nature, the environment and the people within it. It is as imaginative as it is rewarding.

What will I be studying?

Students will be introduced to the technical aspects of photography, including the process of manual control, the importance of the perfect exposure, shutter speed, lens focal length and aperture. Creativity is encouraged through the use of the student’s own imagination. By exploring different techniques and ideas, students are encouraged to experiment in multiple genres. Students will be introduced to the area of digital manipulation using Photoshop. This encompasses post-production, cropping, evaluation and ultimately the printing of their own images. Students will also learn about composition and the manipulation of light within a studio environment.

Pupils are expected to conduct research and take photographs on school trips and in their own time by visiting galleries and exhibitions. They are actively encouraged to keep a record of photographic imagery that inspires them through the study of famous photographers and their work. It is important that students take cues from historical techniques and as such the development of ideas, ability and the resultant creative imagery in the student’s portfolio is expected to show this understanding. Higher marks in this A Level are not achieved without this requirement being more than adequately met.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment throughout the course is split between coursework and externally set assignments. The coursework element spans over Year 12 and Year 13, where students build on a portfolio of work ideas as well as a written study into their topic. The coursework is worth 60% of the final A Level mark.

The external examination is completed between February and May and is worth 40%. This is a practical exam spanning over three days, but there is no written exam as part of the course.

What next?

An A Level in photography with an accomplished portfolio will open the door to further studies in architecture, journalism, fashion, advertising, graphic design, film and television. For talented photographers, the opportunities are enormous. Once completed, you will have a substantial portfolio of work to take to interviews for an Art Foundation course, a photography-based degree course or employment. It will also open doors to many vocational careers.