Photography
Photography is a two-year course where you will learn to explore the work of others and be able to record, document and present examples of everyday life, in ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. You will use multimedia as a vehicle for artistic expression, communicating personal ideas about the world around us. You will also convey personal identity more widely than any other art form and apply it in the creative process of Photography.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Level 2 BTEC: Merit
- GCSE Photography: Grade 5
- Portfolio
RECOMMENDED SUBJECT COMBINATIONS
WHAT TO EXPECT
Practical based subject so expects lots of time in the Art Studios. Prepare to spend time to explore and experiment above and beyond the skills demonstrated in lessons. Expect to work on extended themed responses that demand volumes of work outside of timetabled lessons.
UNITS STUDIED
- Component 1: Personal Investigation
- Component 2: Externally Set Task
HOW IT’S ASSESSED
- Component 1: A Portfolio of work which equates to 60% of the final grade.
- A supporting 1000–3000-word Contextual Essay.
- Component 2: Externally set exam with a 15-hour Examination at the end of the course in the second year
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
- Research and investigate
- Analyse and evaluate work
- Develop and experiment
- Refine work as it develops
PROGRESSION
Students who complete an A-level in Photography can progress in several meaningful ways:
- Higher Education: Many students pursue a degree in Photography or related fields like Visual Arts, Film, or Media Studies. This further education enhances their technical skills and artistic vision.
- Specialisation: Students can focus on specific areas of photography, such as portrait, landscape, fashion, documentary, or commercial photography, allowing them to develop a niche expertise.
- Portfolio Development: A strong portfolio is crucial for further studies and job applications. Students learn to curate and showcase their best work, which can lead to internships, exhibitions, or freelance opportunities.
- Professional Training: Some may choose vocational courses or apprenticeships in photography studios, media companies, or advertising agencies, gaining hands-on experience in the industry.
- Freelance Work: Graduates often explore freelance photography, offering services for events, portraits, or commercial projects, building their own client base.
- Multimedia Skills: Many students expand their skill sets by learning about video production, editing, and digital storytelling, making them more versatile in the creative job market.
- Teaching and Workshops: With additional qualifications, students can consider teaching photography at schools or community centres, sharing their knowledge with aspiring photographers.
- Interdisciplinary Projects: Graduates can collaborate with professionals in fields like graphic design, advertising, or social media, applying their photographic skills in diverse contexts.
Overall, an A-level in Photography provides a solid foundation for a range of career paths and further education opportunities in the visual arts.
WHY CHOOSE THIS SUBJECT?
This course will enable students to further pursue their existing experience in Photography. Students will be using Photoshop to experiment and investigate themes, responding to briefs in individually lead way. The course will build a professional portfolio that will enable students to access higher level courses and apprenticeships.