Photography
“There are almost too many possibilities. Photography is in direct proportion with our time: multiple, faster, instant. Because it is so easy, it will be more difficult.” Ernst Haas
The study of Photography is a visual journey of exploration, through ‘lens and light based media’ - our aim is to undertake projects that stretch the appreciation and understanding of the place of Photography culturally as well as globally. Photography pervades our lives at all levels and we explore through technical and conceptual projects the many possibilities that this exciting subject can offer.
GCSE
Studying GCSE Photography helps you develop creativity, technical skills, and a critical eye for composition and lighting. It allows you to express ideas visually while learning camera techniques, editing, and visual storytelling. The course boosts problem-solving and analytical skills, and it’s a great foundation for careers in art, media, or design. We are surrounded by images, humans take billions of photos each year; this can help you make sense of the visual culture that we all live in.
What will I learn at GCSE?
In AQA GCSE Photography, you will learn essential technical and creative skills, including how to use a camera manually, control lighting, and compose striking images. You’ll explore different genres like portraiture, landscapes, film, experimental imagery, while experimenting with techniques such as digital editing, darkroom processes, and mixed media. The course emphasises developing a personal style, researching photographers, and analysing their work to inspire your own projects. You’ll also refine your ability to critique images and present your ideas effectively. Through practical assignments and coursework, you’ll build a personal portfolio, preparing you for further study or careers in photography, art, and media.
How is the course structured?
The AQA GCSE Photography course is divided into two main components: Portfolio (60%) and Externally Set Assignment (40%). For the Portfolio, you’ll complete a sustained project (or multiple smaller projects) demonstrating your skills in techniques like digital editing, lighting, and composition. This includes research, experimentation, and refining your ideas into a final outcome.
The Externally Set Assignment begins in January of Year 11, when AQA releases a theme with starting points. You’ll develop a personal response through research, planning, and a 10-hour supervised period to produce final pieces.
Both components are assessed on four key objectives: developing ideas, refining techniques, recording observations, and presenting a meaningful response.
How is the course examined?
The AQA GCSE Photography course is assessed through 60% coursework (Portfolio) and 40% externally set assignment (ESA). For the Portfolio, you submit a body of work demonstrating your skills in research, experimentation, and final outcomes. Teachers assess it against four assessment objectives (AO1–AO4), then AQA moderates the marks. The ESA involves a 10-hour supervised practical exam (usually split over two days), where you create final pieces based on preparatory work. Your response to the ESA theme is marked by teachers and moderated by AQA. Both components are judged on: developing ideas, refining techniques, recording observations, and presenting a personal response.
A Level
The course covers darkroom and digital work, with the full Adobe Creative Suite available to all students. The large darkroom can print all black and white films, with pinholes, cyanotypes and other experimental processes readily available. There is also a lighting studio with a green screen with digital filmmaking equipment.
What do I need before starting this course?
Photography is offered to students who show an aptitude in the subject. An Art and Photography GCSE is recommended with at least a grade 5 (but it is not a prerequisite). You will need a digital SLR camera and a SLR film camera, although initially any good mobile phone will get you a long way.
Studying Photography A Level develops technical, creative, and analytical skills, teaching you to capture and manipulate images with meaning. You’ll explore genres like portraiture, documentary, and experimental photography while refining your style. The course enhances visual storytelling, critical thinking, and digital editing expertise.
What will I learn at A level?
In AQA A Level Photography, you’ll develop technical skills in DSLR/manual settings, lighting, darkroom techniques, and digital editing using Photoshop and Lightroom. You’ll explore genres such as portraiture, documentary, and conceptual photography, while studying influential photographers and visual culture. The course emphasises creative experimentation, idea development, and critical analysis through practical shoots, an online portfolio, and written reflections. Students may work in one or more areas, including still life, fashion, photojournalism, multimedia, experimental imagery, and moving image (video, film, animation).
How is the course examined?
The AQA A Photography is assessed through:
- Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) – A practical portfolio (sketchbooks, experiments, final pieces) and a written essay (1,000–3,000 words).
- Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) – Students respond to an AQA theme, producingpreparatory work followed by a 15-hour supervised examto create final piece(s).
Both components are internally marked and externally moderated and are assessed on four assessment objectives (AOs): AO1 (Develop ideas) AO2 (Refine techniques) AO3 (Record research) AO4 (Present final work). No written exam—assessment is practical and coursework-based.
What could I do next?
After studying Photography A Level, you could progress to a foundation course, a photography or creative arts degree, or careers in fashion, journalism, advertising, filmmaking, fine art, or digital media. Freelance and commercial photography are also popular options.