Photography

WHY SHOULD I STUDY A-LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY?

This course will provide you with an opportunity to develop your intellectual, imaginative and creative capabilities. You will investigate, analyse and experiment, developing your technical and expressive skills, using both darkroom processes and digital imagery. You will gain an aesthetic understanding and critical judgement and will be encouraged to communicate your ideas and to examine a wide range of themes. Through exposure to the work of photographers and creative industries, you will, as an artist, gain a greater understanding and experience of the world of photography.

WHAT WILL I LEARN ABOUT?

A coursework portfolio will allow you to develop ideas through investigations informed by the work of photographers and other sources. You will explore the use of a variety of media, materials, techniques and processes, and develop an ability to review and refine your work. You will learn how to effectively record ideas, looking at composition, light and shade, colour and texture with confidence. Your critical judgement will develop and you will gain the ability to present a personal and meaningful response to a theme, which realises your intentions.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

The course is 60% Personal Investigation, which includes a written piece up to 3,000 words.
There is one exam, which is worth 40%. There is a preparatory period followed by a 15-hour exam.

What skills will I develop? This course will see you develop your ability to:  Handle materials and techniques, including wet processes in the darkroom, and digital techniques, including the use of camera controls and Photoshop software.  Build an analytical understanding of artistic photography from recent and past times and the ability to use this knowledge in practical outcomes.  Independently self-review your progress and make informed, personal decisions with confidence.

WHERE COULD THIS SUBJECT TAKE ME IN THE FUTURE?

1 in 11 UK jobs is based in the creative industries. This course gives you access to a wide range of university courses including degrees in Fine Art, Graphic Design, Film Making and Media. These could lead to careers in commercial art galleries, advertising, photo-journalism and much more.

Exam Board: AQA | Course Code: 7202