Photography A Level

Full name of specification

A Level Lens Based Media

What is A Level photography?

This course explores a broad range of subjects associated with the creation of photography and film. You will use professional standard equipment whilst exploring a range of photographic and film based disciplines. You will also work on a range of projects including product/studio photography, fashion photography and documentary film making. You will learn how to use professional photography and film equipment as well as developing post production skills using Adobe Photoshop and Premiere. Underpinning these topics will be an understanding of the principles of art and design and idea generation techniques which you will apply to the development of a range of outcomes.

Why study this course?

The learner’s experience is our priority and your journey with us is facilitated by seasoned mentors with strong industry experience and relevant academic prowess. Resources include DSLR cameras and an image editing suite with Mac computers and Adobe software.

What can you expect from this course?

This course offers an expressive and/or interpretative response to the visual world which is produced with the aid of lens based media and may be manipulated by digital technology. It embodies knowledge and understanding of meanings, information and experiences through a body of photographic work. Understanding is demonstrated through the process of experimentation and is communicated by the production of outcomes. Photographic skills are developed through the use of formal elements, techniques and technology and their application to selected media.
The course is structured on two units for the full A-level certificate. Year 12 will act as a period to develop skill base and personal style, whilst completing outcomes that will be submitted for the A-level coursework unit.

How is it assessed?

Year 12 Component 1 will be internally set and marked, with staff assessing outcomes against national standards for the examination board; this will result in a department awarded grade. Year 13 Component 1 will be internally set and marked, then externally moderated. Year 13 Component 2 is externally set, internally marked and externally moderated.

What are the entry requirements?

A level 6 in an art and design GCSE; portfolios also considered

What can I do after completing this qualification?

Successful completion of the course can lead directly to a university degree in photography, film, or a related subject such as special effects, or media production. While the majority of students choose to progress to university you will also have prepared a portfolio of work and developed the skills required to seek employment within your chosen field of study.

What will I study?

The course gives you the opportunity to develop camera and studio skills, film production and post-production editing techniques. You will be able to apply these skills through a range of assignments that cover studio, product, and outdoor photography, and documentary film/photography. In addition you will gain an understanding of the history of art, whilst focusing on photography and film.

Additional activities within this subject

A wealth of knowledge can be acquired through visits to galleries, museums and exhibitions as well as reading articles, magazines, books, blogs etc. to build up a wide appreciation of photography and its potential possibilities.

Wider Reading list

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson.
How to create stunning Digital Photography by Tony Northrup.
Fifty Paths to Creative Photography by Michael Freeman.
The best of Digital Photography Book Series by Scott Kelby.