Photography A Level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and an Art and Design subject. Those who have not studied a GCSE Art and Design subject should be able to demonstrate their interest in the subject through a printed photographic portfolio of 16-20 images.

This is a very hands-on, practical creative course, which will help you develop your skills in digital and analogue imaging including camera techniques, studio/location lighting, darkroom photographic processes and image manipulation. A specialised course like A Level Photography needs the best facilities and supportive, expert teachers to guide you and at SCG we offer those benefits to help you achieve your full potential.

You will develop skills in digital and analogue imaging including camera techniques, studio/location lighting, darkroom photographic processes and image manipulation. Written assignments provide the opportunity to explore historical and contemporary photographic practices whilst developing critical, theoretical and practical skills through an individual body of work.

Year 1

A series of assignments will introduce the technical, critical, and creative skills necessary. Visual literacy is developed through contextual analysis of images and the formal elements of composition. Set exercises build skills in key areas such as camera exposure, framing, depth of field, lens focal length and creative lighting as well as the manipulation of images using Adobe Photoshop and traditional photographic processes.

Year 2

• Component 1 – Self-initiated Brief. You will write a personal area of investigation under supervision. Exploratory work is undertaken and images are generated through theoretical and practical approaches toward a final body of images. Work demonstrates extensive development of research skills, ideas and experimentation through a variety of visual communication methods and media. This unit includes a written, analytical, contextual element.
• Component 2 – Coursework and Exam Period. Choose one title from a selection of project briefs set by the exam board. This major project encompasses elements of research, analysis and practical development over a period of ten weeks. After the initial period of research to develop your ideas, a 15 hour exam period will follow to produce a finished outcome. Emphasis is placed on experimentation and the development of ideas.

Previous students have gone onto higher education taking Art Foundation courses, or degrees in photography, journalism, media, film, creative video or visual arts. Employment can include media developer, art director or in production for TV, film or media publishing.

You will have the opportunity to attend “Create Your Future” a UCAS Convention in Manchester, to find out about all creative courses in the UK. There are other opportunities such as annual trips to Rome and New York. A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and an Art and Design subject.

You can apply online via the APPLY NOW button and then add an additional two or three subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative vocational programme of study via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Open Evenings, ring Admissions on 01743 260401 or email admissions@scg.ac.uk