Art (Photography)

GCSE Photography develops a great range of skills in students through an exciting and engaging programme of study. As with all Art endorsements, Photography offers a highly personalised experience with lots of potential for students to bring their own ideas to their projects.

Areas of study include portraiture, location and studio photography, experimental imagery, documentary, fashion and fine art photography. The work of contemporary and important photographers is explored to develop an understanding of the work of others, and students can explore a great range of cultural and issue based ideas.

Students develop skills in the use of DSLRs and bridge cameras, flash units, studio lighting, and Adobe Photoshop. In camera the use of lighting, viewpoint, aperture and many more processes are explored. In Photoshop the ability to carefully or dramatically develop images are explored, including creative, experimental processes such as photomontage and abstraction.

As well as leading to great creative and technical skills, students will develop their critical thinking skills, initiative, skills as independent learners, ability to reflect, and to collaborate with others.

AQA GCSE Photography is weighted 60% coursework and 40% externally set assignment.

Students produce a digital portfolio of at least 2 projects over year 10 and 11, which become highly independent and personalised by the final project.

The externally set assignment consists of a period of preparatory time followed by ten hours of supervised time.

• Artistic and creative ability.

• Technical ability with a wide range of photographic equipment.

• IT skills through Adobe Photoshop, Windows and Google packages

• Critical thinking and analytic skills

• A keen eye for detail.

• Good communication and people skills.

• Good time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.

Through our A-Level Photography course many students have gone on to study Photography at University Level, demonstrating the passion and ability the course has generated within students. GCSE Photography develops a superb foundation for this to be built upon. Creative careers are massive in the UK and Photography is a qualification which develops skills which transfer to many creative careers beyond those that are just behind the camera.

Transferable skills

Photography is a way of seeing things and making sense of the world around you. It can help you with further study and prepare you for the world of work. You’ll develop problem solving, creative thinking, investigation, research, communication and teamwork skills, and gain the ability to develop, refine and present ideas. Employers and universities regard all of these highly.