Photography

What will I study at Key stage 4?

You will spend the first year learning a wide variety of skills and techniques. You will learn how to use SLR cameras and digital cameras to a sophisticated level utilising apertures and shutter speeds.  You will learn how to develop negatives in the dark room and also print black and white photographs.

You learn how to analyse photographers’ work and you will then use their ideas and techniques to influence your work.  Your work will be documented in a sketch book and this will document your ideas and thought processes.

In the second year you will utilise these skills and techniques developing a sustained body of work. 

What is coursework?

Coursework covers four main assessment areas each worth 25%. These are:

• Taking photographs
• Written analysis of photographers
• Developing your own ideas based on your photographs and analysis
• Producing a final piece of work based on your plans

What form does the GCSE examination take?

What assessments will I do?

Each unit has a number of assignments, which you are required to complete to produce a portfolio of evidence. There is no exam for this particular course it is entirely coursework based. However, it must be noted that it requires students to work consistently across the two years of the course, leaving work until the end is not a successful strategy!

Why should I do Photography?

• I enjoy taking photographs and am fascinated by photographers work
• I am an inspired individual and have my own opinion about the world about me
• I am able to follow an idea through from start to finish
• I am proactive and enjoy working independently
• I want to use photography in my future career

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GCSE Photographing gives you the opportunity to experiment, explore and develop your own opinions and interests.  There is a lot of independent work involved in the course and you will not be able to complete it in the classroom alone.  It is a fantastic opportunity to develop your artistic opinions in an exciting and fast media.