Photography
In A Level Photography you will explore photographic techniques, processes, and concepts, both digital and analogue. You'll develop practical skills, critical analysis, and a personal style through themed projects. You will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples.
Entry Requirements
Some prior experience in Art, Design, Graphic Communication or Photography at GCSE is advantageous.
Basic skills with cameras (DSLR / film) or willingness to learn and an ability to manage time and self‑direct work, especially with the Personal Investigation project.
A willingness to visit locations outside of college for Photoshoots.
What will I Study?
You will study a wide range of skills, techniques, and themes centered around photography as a creative and expressive medium. The course is structured to develop both your technical ability and your conceptual understanding of photography as an art form.
Component 1: Personal Investigation
What it is: A major project developed over time, based on a theme of your choice.
Includes:
A practical portfolio (photos, edits, experiments, etc.)
A written element of 1000–3000 words explaining your ideas, research, and development.
Focus Areas:
Personal exploration of a theme (e.g., identity, decay, contrast, movement).
Influences from photographers or artists.
Technical and aesthetic experimentation.
Developing and refining your own photographic style.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment
What it is: A project based on one of the themes provided by AQA.
Includes:
Preparation period to explore and develop a response to the chosen theme.
15-hour timed session where you create your final piece(s) under exam conditions.
Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?
The exam board is AQA.
Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)
Where could this subject take me?
Fine Art Photographer - creating conceptual or expressive work for galleries or personal projects.
Exhibition Curator - organising and managing photography exhibitions in galleries or museums.
Photographic Artist - combining photography with mixed media or installation art.
Fashion Photographer - shooting editorial and advertising content for fashion brands and magazines.
Product Photographer - creating high-quality images for e-commerce, advertising, or catalogues.
Advertising Photographer - working on creative campaigns for brands and agencies.
Social Media Content Creator - producing visual content for brands, influencers, or personal channels.
Videographer - often paired with photography skills, shooting and editing video.
How can I get ahead in this subject
Build Technical Skills:
Master Camera Basics:
Aperture (f-stop), Shutter speed, ISO (exposure triangle).
White balance, focus, depth of field, composition.
Practice with Equipment:
Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera regularly (not just your phone).
Learn manual mode settings.
Get comfortable with lenses, tripods, lighting setups.
Learn Editing Software:
Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom are essential.
Learn how to:
Adjust exposure/contrast
Remove distractions
Use layers/masks
Apply filters subtly
Create contact sheets & moodboards
Related Courses
Discover complementary subjects that enhance your learning, broaden your skills, and open up exciting future study and career opportunities.
Sport
BTEC
The BTEC National Extended Certificate course in Sport builds upon the ideas that have been learnt and understood at GCSE PE or L2 BTEC Sport. The aim of the course is to generate an interest and
Computer Science
A Level
Students study the design, development and analysis of software and hardware used to solve problems in a variety of business, scientific and social contexts. Computers solve problems to serve people
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Completing an EPQ is an opportunity for students to explore interests, skills and subjects outside and beyond A-level courses to give students the competitive edge in applications and interviews for
History
A Level
The A Level course in History aims to expand on the knowledge and skills you have developed up to Key Stage 4. During the course you will study a range of different themes and countries, over various
Psychology
A Level
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. It is both an applied and academic field that seeks to understand and explain human behaviour, thought and emotion. Psychologists
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Completing an EPQ is an opportunity for students to explore interests, skills and subjects outside and beyond A Level courses to give students the competitive edge in applications and interviews for
Photography
A Level
In A Level Photography you will explore photographic techniques, processes, and concepts, both digital and analogue. You'll develop practical skills, critical analysis, and a personal style through
Music Performance
BTEC
This course is perfect for students who enjoy playing music! It is an extremely practical course where you will be expected to be confident performing in-front of and working along side other
Film Studies
A Level
Studying A Level Film Studies opens up a wide range of creative, technical, and academic career paths - not just in film and television, but across many areas of media, communication, and the arts.
Physics
A Level
The A Level Physics curriculum aims to inspire curiosity, develop critical thinking, and deepen understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the physical world. Through a balanced blend of
Sociology
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behaviour. It focuses on social relationships and interactions between people and is concerned with the influence of institutions on our
Health & Social Care (AQQ)
This qualification is part of the Health and Social Care AAQ qualifications offered by OCR. The course aims to give students wanting to enter the health and social care sector a basis of knowledge