Department: Art
Type of Qualification: A Level
Exam Board: AQA
Additional Entry Requirements: Grade 6 at GCSE in Art, Textiles or Graphics or portfolio of work
Why study Photography?
The course is suited to students who prefer a practical approach to studying a specific aspect of art and design. It will also interest anyone who:
- may wish to pursue a career in photography
- may wish to pursue a career in art & design
- would like to continue studying this subject at University or at Art School
- would prefer to be assessed by continuous coursework rather than examination.
- may wish to develop skills in use of Photoshop, Illustrator and Lightroom
- may wish to develop their understanding of traditional wet and digital technologies in photography.
Course Content
This is a 2-year Advanced A level specification, requiring students to develop practical and theoretical knowledge and understanding of:
- relevant materials, processes, technologies and resources
- how images relate to the time and place in which they were made and to their social and cultural contexts
- continuity and change in different genres, styles and processes
- a working visual/written vocabulary and specialist terminology.
- Photoshop and digital manipulation
Students can specialise in one or more of the following areas of study:
- Portraiture
- Landscape
- Still-life
- Documentary
- Experimental
- Photographic installation
The A Level Photography course is designed to encourage, enhance and challenge creativity, enabling students to achieve their potential. Students will be presented with new photographic concepts and learn to master new techniques through structured workshops. Students build a portfolio and develop one major coursework component. They undertake an externally set task in February of their second year.
Assessment
Coursework portfolio and exhibition of work.
Careers in Art
All aspects of the world of photography, publishing and art and design. ‘In-House’ design units. A fine understanding and capability with the camera and in digital manipulation and production, is useful across a range of industries and professions.