Photography

A Level

Exam Board: A Level Photography – OCR

Course Summary

This exciting and creative subject explores photography in both a creative and commercial form. The course is very practical and you will learn many aspects of professional practice including Digital SLRs, location and studio work, Photoshop, portfolio production and self-promotion.

Creative workshops will build your skills and confidence, while contextual studies develop your written work to University level standards. Experienced teaching staff will guide you towards the development of your own professional practice in either art or work-related themes. This course is excellent as a standalone qualification preparing you for University and working within the creative industry. It compliments a wide range of other pathways including Media, ICT, Science and other Art subjects.

Entry Requirements

  • Studying Art and/ or Design at GCSE is advantageous but not essential
  • Access to your own Digital SLR Camera and lens is required
  • High end mobile phone cameras will be considered

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Topics

  • Professional Photographic Practice
  • Camera and Photoshop skills
  • Location and Studio work
  • Experimental and Creative Techniques
  • Critical and Contextual Analysis
  • Photographic Studio and Traditional Darkroom
  • Personal Portfolio Production
  • Self Promotion and Website Development

Why choose this course?

  • Excellent results and progression
  • Specialist skills and diverse pathways
  • State-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated art studios
  • Access to the full Adobe Design Suite
  • Strong links with the Film, Graphic Design and Media Industry
  • End of year show and regular social media promotion
  • Visiting speakers from the creative industry
  • Additional Photoshop Q-Extra available
  • Day trip to London or Brighton

Where might it lead?

The combination of practical and theoretical skills means this course leads to a range of options in further study and employment. Students often choose our one year Foundation Diploma in Art and Design and then progress onto University subjects such as Photography, Film Production or Media Studies. Destinations are diverse and there may also be opportunities within areas such as science and healthcare digital imaging.

Assessment

This course has a mixture of:

  • 60% Personal Investigation
  • 40% Externally Set Assignment

OUR STUDENTS

Luke Haddock

"I particularly enjoy the student life of independence, where I am free to choose how I spend my time and make the most out of the well-developed facilities at Barton."

Read more about Luke and some of our other students.