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A Level Photography

Exam Board: OCR

what is the course about?

This is an art and design-based A level that specialises in lens-based media including: learning to shoot with both SLR and DSLR cameras, printing and processing black and white film in a darkroom, using lighting equipment and Adobe Photoshop. Students will work both on location and in the studio.

DURATION OF COURSE:

This course is a two-year linear A level. Grading is through internal assessment and external moderation.

WHAT UNITS/TOPICS WILL BE STUDIED?

The course comprises 60% coursework and 40% externally set task. The first year involves short projects and workshops exploring key genres in photography including portraiture, street and landscape, followed by the first phase of their personal investigation.

In the second year there are two assessed components: ‘Personal Investigation’ in which students specialise in their chosen area of photography and write a supporting essay and ‘Externally Set Task’ where students will choose from a range of given themes and create a project, this includes a timed practical examination.

WHAT DO I NEED TO STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

G Score: 34

GCSE Art: 4 (Desirable)
GCSE English: 4

It is also desirable that candidates show a small photography portfolio shown on a device or hard copy.

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE MYSELF TO STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

Look at a wide variety of work by famous photographers and find out what you like. Study light and composition and practice taking photos. Read about the history of photography.

WHERE CAN THIS LEAD ME?

Students often progress onto a Foundation Diploma course in art and design or directly onto a degree in a range of art-based or other subjects. Careers in photography include: social photographer such as weddings, events, commercial and portraits, press photography, graphic designer, fashion photographer/stylist, magazine features editor, advertising, digital marketing, web design.

WHAT ARE THE ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES AS PART OF THIS SUBJECT?

There are many visits to galleries, museums, degree shows and workshops. You will undertake work on location in central London and a beach location. You will also have the opportunity to do a project with a gallery resulting in being in a professional group exhibition.