PHOTOGRAPHY- A LEVEL

PHOTOGRAPHY - A LEVEL

WHY STUDY PHOTOGRAPHY?
Photography is becoming an increasingly important part of how we communicate
and interact, particularly with the rising popularity of social-networking. This course
teaches a broad range of technical and creative skills that, when applied, allow
ideas to be developed to a professional standard. It combines the artistic elements
of creative and experimental thinking with the logical and technical skills that
underpin photography.
COURSE CONTENT AND ASSESSMENT DETAILS
Year 12:
Students work through a series of technical workshops designed to develop
photographic skills. Students learn how to capture images in a variety of lighting
conditions, explore angles, composition concepts, depth of field and focusing
techniques. Students then progress to editing and learn to enhance and manipulate
their images using Adobe Photoshop. Students are also encouraged to manipulate
photographs through other means, and can create pieces combined with artistic
techniques, using a range of materials. In the past, students have then been able to
create 3D installations and sculptures using these techniques, encouraging further
creativity. Throughout the year students work both in the studio and outside in
natural light. They investigate different themes and purposes of photography looking
at documentary, advertising, staging, portraiture, still life and artistic photography.
Students are expected to explore their theme outside of the school environment to
develop their observations and use the facilities during study periods in school.
The practical work will be informed by critical research and investigations into the
work of professional artists and photographers from a range of times and countries.
Work is refined and organised into a portfolio which will demonstrate skills in the
four assessment objectives; develop, experiment and refine, record observations,
and present.
Year 13 :
Personal Study, 60% of A Level marks: Students work through a series of technical
workshops designed to develop photographic skills. They are then guided through
the writing of a research question based on an area of interest. They learn to
interpret photographic work in a more meaningful way, investigating key periods or
themes of photography. Students select their preferred techniques and refine their
practice, developing their own style and ways of working. They present their
practical work which is assessed against the four assessment objectives; develop,
experiment and refine, record observations, and present. A supporting essay (1000-
3000 words), providing a critical analysis of their work and the work of relevant artists
and photographers, is also presented for assessment.
Exam, 40% of A Level marks:
Students develop a personal response to an exam question, the exam concludes
with a 15hour practical. All the work they produce is assessed against the four
assessment objectives, as outlined above.