KS5 GCE Digital Photography

What will I learn?

Advanced level Photography aims to develop the ability to appreciate the visual world; respond in a personal and creative way and communicate this through Digital Photography. It prepares students for employment and/or further studies beyond A Level Art and digital related courses. There are four units in this course, two taken in the Lower Sixth and two in the Upper Sixth. The Lower Sixth areas of study lead to an AS in Digital Photography and this can be taken as a stand alone subject or as half of the full A Level Course.

The areas of study for Digital Photography are composition, viewpoints, focus, shutter speed and exposure. The use different digital cameras, image manipulation software and the relationship between colour and tone for screen based media. Students will also use a range of source material for the development of ideas.

Lessons will involve the use of software such as Adobe Photoshop. studio lighting, critical analysis as well educational visits and location work.

How will I be assessed?

AS – Unit One:​ Course work – 2 projects of practical work, Unit Two – Externally Set Assignment.
A2 – Unit Three : ​Course work (a) Practical Work and (b) Personal Study, Unit Four : Externally Set Assignment

With regard to the 4 units, 2 are taken in the Lower Sixth and 2 in the Upper Sixth. The Lower Sixth areas of
study lead to an AS in Digital Photography and this can be taken as a stand alone subject or as half of the full A Level course.

What are the entry requirements?

● English GCSE at grade C or above
● Preferably Art GCSE at grade C or above

NB: Students must provide their own camera.

The best foundation for success in Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced GCE in photography is a good grade at GCSE. However, this isn’t a requirement. If you have a creative aptitude for the subject and are technically minded you may have the basic skills to succeed. However, this course is not an easy option and you should be prepared to work hard at developing your abilities. You should have an understanding of the basic elements of colour, tone, composition etc, and also some understanding of the place of art and design in the world, its history and its purpose. Above all you should have an interest in creating and understanding art and the determination to develop that interest.

Future opportunities?

There are many careers in digital Photography. You may wish to take the AS or Advanced GCE for its own sake or perhaps to form the basis of a future specialist interest or as part of a range of other subjects. You might wish to go into a job where it is useful to have had experience of photography or where you will need
to use some of the skills developed during this course. These might include careers in such fields as advertising, marketing, design, architecture, publishing and media. The study of art can also help you develop transferable skills you can take into any career or job. Many students go on to study the Foundation Course in Art and Design before specialising in Art or Design at Degree Level.

Who should I contact for additional information?

Course contact: paul.alexis@biddenham.beds.sch.uk

Exam board: AQA