Why study A level photography?
A level photography will particularly appeal to you if you want to communicate ideas visually, have an interest in the relationship between art and photography, enjoy looking at and discussing photographic work and want to engage with practical projectbased photography. You will be offered a variety of experiences that explore a range of photographic media, techniques and processes. You will explore relevant images and resources relating to a range of photography, art and design, from the past and from recent times.
Level: A level
Board: AQA
Head of department:
Mrs H O’Hara
Entry requirement: Grade 6 in GCSE photography; five grade 5s at GCSE including English and maths
What is studied over the two years?
| Year | Topics and focus |
| 12 | Introduction to camera skills, lighting, editing and presentation |
| Exploration of techniques such as digital photography, darkroom, photomontage, mixed media, etc. | |
| Projects exploring identity, place, object, or abstraction | |
| Developing personal style and visual language | |
| 13 | Component 1: Personal investigation (major portfolio + essay) |
| Component 2: Response to externally set assignment | |
| Greater emphasis on refinement, personal voice, and technical control |
How is A level photography delivered and assessed?
| Component | Content | Assessment |
| Component 1: Personal investigation (60%) | A practical portfolio of work based on a personal theme. Includes a written element (1,000–3,000 words) to support the creative process | Internally assessed, externally moderated |
| Component 2: Externally set assignment (40%) | An externally set theme released on 1 February. Students develop ideas and outcomes, culminating in a final 15-hour practical exam | Internally assessed, externally moderated |
