GCSE Art and Design: Photography

Students produce a portfolio of work to study particular themes relating to the work of a range of past and contemporary artists and photographers. Developing ideas through digital techniques and media, and using programmes such as Photoshop, form a major part of each assignment. Students will explore various approaches, demonstrating skills in composition, viewpoint and depth of field making appropriate use of colour, line, tone, texture, shape and form, in response to an idea, theme or brief. Students will need to explain and critically review their work, through written annotations, as this will form a crucial part of the assessment.

During the course, students will cover a range of different areas below, with at least 2 as a minimum:

• Architecture photography (working from the built or natural environment)
• Portraiture
• Still Life photography, (working from natural or manufactured objects)
• Documentary photography, photo journalism, narrative photography, reportage
• Fine Art photography, photographic installation
• New media practice such as computer manipulated photography and photographic projections

Component 1: Coursework 60%
This consists of a portfolio of selected work from a series of assignments

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 40% (ESA)
You need to produce your own assignment in response to an externally set exam paper. You will have nine weeks preparatory time and 10 hours supervised work under examination conditions. The Externally Set Assignment will form part of the exhibition, which is assessed both internally and by a moderator from the AQA board.

This is a very popular course as the photographic and digital expertise you gain are transferrable to many different careers. An interest in the subject and the willingness to work hard are as important as any natural talent. No prior knowledge is needed. You will learn how to use Photoshop as well as how to use an SLR camera to create and develop your work. Having access to a digital camera phone for your home learning would be an advantage, but not essential as cameras are provided.