Photography - A Level

Photography engages you in an activity that is enjoyable and relates to your own interests and life experiences. All project work is, therefore, tailor-made to suit each individual’s own working practice. Lessons are mostly practical, building from the beginning on skills needed for the final exam.

Throughout the course you will study the history and development of photography, photographers and photographic technique, come to understand the importance of viewpoint, composition, depth of field and movement, and explore and practice technical skills relating to shutter speed, exposure, stock, lenses and filters, and the developing and printing of film.

Class sizes are small so that you can receive a lot of help with your work and so that darkroom equipment does not have to be shared. Although the emphasis at the beginning of the course is on traditional photographic techniques, you will also have the opportunity to use digital photography and photoshop applications.

Photography at Lansdowne has a strong history of achieving high grades and helping those who are less interested in strictly academic subjects. Tuition is friendly, supportive and responsive to changing needs,

What will I study in Photography?

AS Units 1 & 2
Portfolio: Comprises one or two projects with supporting written work in the form of a journal. You can choose to work in areas such as portraiture, documentary, photojournalism, environmental photography, still life or experimental imagery.

Externally Set Assignment: A choice of five projects set by the exam board. You will have a preparatory period of eight weeks leading to a five hour supervised practical.

A2 Units 3 & 4
Personal Investigation: Based on an idea, concept, issue or theme. This is supported by 1000-3000 words of a critical, analytical nature and supporting written work relating to your practical work.

Externally Set Assignment: A choice of eight projects set by the exam board. You will have a preparatory period of eight weeks leading to fifteen hours of supervised practical.

How will I be assessed?

Coursework and external assignments are internally marked then moderated by an external examiner.

Do I need to have studied Photography before?

No, but you must be willing to spend time taking photographs and should try to visit exhibitions. You will also need to have the use of a traditional SLR camera with manual controls.

Who will teach me?

Cathy Graham BSc (Hons), BTEC Photography, is an experienced professionally qualified photographer and teacher. With a detailed grasp of the syllabus, Cathy encourages her students with individual practical advice and support in their work throughout the course.

Which subjects complement Photography?

Photography is a versatile subject and complements a range of Arts disciplines such as Film Studies, Media Studies, Graphics and Art.

Which careers can Photography lead to?

Photography could lead to academic or vocational degrees relating to press photography, photojournalism, fine art, editing, fashion photography or styling, the film industry, forensic science, etc.