Photography (PEARSON)

A-Level Course Outline

"I always wanted to be a photographer. But I never dreamed I would be having this much fun. I imagined something much less elusive, much more mundane". - Lee Friedlander

Who Should Study Photography at A-Level

Any inquisitive and independently motivated student, interested in furthering visual, technical, cognitive and analytical skills. At A-level the subject continues to mirror the personality of the photographer. Individual projects, bespoke to each student are strongly encouraged.

What will you find challenging?

The level of expectancy shifts from AS to A-level along with the grade boundaries, increasing the difficulty of achieving excellence at A-level. Stronger evidence of technical, aesthetic and critical skills are required as is a more sophisticated overall presentation. However if you have a genuine interest in the subject and a core grounding in photography then you will excel at this level.

What Skills Will You Develop Studying A-Level Photography?

Students will reinforce visual language skills and refine technical understanding -developing a sophisticated critique of imagery via independent decision-making.

• A critical vocabulary for the analysis of artistic practice.
• Professionalism, visual and technical skills demonstrated in an industry compatible portfolio.
• Industry standard software and digital photographic technology, techniques and processes.
• An informed, critical, personal study of 1000-3000 words related to individual practice.

Learning photography provides a host of transferable skills; personal, professional and technical.

PHOTOGRAPHY (PEARSON) A-Level Specification

Unit One Internally set and marked, externally moderated. 60% of A-level qualification Available in June Photography Course Work supporting studies work journal(s) final presentation in response to chosen theme e.g. portfolio prints, artists book, exhibition installation. Personal study, 1000-3000 word essay directly relating to project theme.

Unit Two Internally set and marked, externally moderated. 40% of A-level qualification Available in June Externally Set Assessment supporting studies work journal(s) preparatory studies final presentation in response to chosen theme e.g. portfolio prints, artists book, exhibition installation. Produced in 8 hours under controlled exam conditions.

Structure of the Course
This course will be taught for 6x 1hour lessons per week. Homework will consist of practical photography and written sketchbook work. As students are encouraged to undertake bespoke projects, homework is usually practical but will also involve annotation of sketchbooks and relevant contextual research. All this should be of the student's choice and interest. Weekly deadlines are set.

Core Textbook The Genius of Photography - Gerry Badger ISBN-10: 1844006093

Further Reading
'On Photography' - Susan Sontag
ISBN-13: 978-0141187167

'Camera Lucida' - Roland Barthes
ISBN-10: 0374521344