Photography

A level Photography provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. As a subject, it stimulates and develops the imagination and critical thinking as well as strengthening problem-solving skills. 

This is a four-component specification, two in year one and two in year two. Students need to: 

  • Research the work of photographers as a source of inspiration and ideas / annotate and analyse 
  • Developing your own ideas leading to individual responses and outcomes 
  • Gain an ability to understand the formal elements of composition / the craft of taking a photograph 
  • Be willing to experiment and try out ideas to develop their own work 
  • Be very willing to work independently of school throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

It is desirable but not essential to have 5 at GCSE Photography. Students who can demonstrate an intense interest in the subject/show talent and have not studied at GCSE may be considered. 

A-Level Course Content

Component 1: A2 Personal Investigation

  • 60 % of A- level
  • No time limits
  • Personal investigation supported by written
  • element of 1000-3000 words
  • Marked by the centre and moderated by AQA

Component 2: Subjects Externally Set Assignment

  • 40% of A- level
  • Preparatory period leading to 15 hours
  • supervised time
  • Marked by the centre and moderated by AQA