Photography

Photography

Head of Creative Arts Faculty: Miss Carr

Qualification Level and Examination Board: Level 1 and 2 OCR GCSE Art & Design (Photography) J173 

How is the course assessed?

Component 01: Portfolio (60%) 

• Learners should produce a portfolio of practical work showing their personal response to either a centre- or learner-set starting point, brief, scenario or stimulus.

Component 02: Externally set task (40%)

• Students must respond to one of five themes, each with a range of written and visual starting points and stimuli, over several weeks in Year 11.

What is the content of the course?

Students are actively involved in group and individual projects.  They have the opportunity to explore a wide range of photographic genres such as portraiture, photo-montage, photo-journalism, landscape, scanography, projection, darkroom, studio practices and many more.  Students are expected to include research, analysis and critical thinking to support their knowledge of photography and assessment is based upon both their photographic skill and written analysis.

Students will develop an understanding of photographic composition and both traditional (darkroom) and digital processes, developing sensitivity towards the creative and imaginative application of imagery.  Students are encouraged to explore social, cultural and critical issues, particularly in relation to popular culture, the mass media and issues in contemporary photographic practice.  Students are expected to employ creative approaches to their work which go beyond mere observation and recording.

http://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/220463-specification-accredited-gcse-art-and-design-j170-j176.pdf

What could I study Post-16?

The course offers an excellent preparation for those considering an art related career and for entry into:

• A Level Art & Design, Photography and Media Studies

• IB Visual Arts and Film

• UAL Art & Design

What possible careers could I have?

Professional photographer  • Photojournalist  • Wedding photographer • Portrait photographer • Product photographer  • Wildlife photographer 

• Graphic designer  • Art director • Film and video producer  • Cinematographer  • Photography teacher • Gallery manager 

Additional information

You must have a passion for creating imagery that aims to communicate the world around you. A commitment to independent research and working is vital and an active interest in the visual world is a must. Practical activities will take place during school time, but it is expected that students will spend time outside of school creating images.