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Photography

Student holding camera taking picture in the studio

A Level Photography is so much more than taking photographs, it’s about learning to see creatively, think critically and communicate powerfully through images. It’s a course for storytellers, experimenters, image makers and for those who want to capture the world in new and imaginative ways.

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Working in our fully equipped studio space and a professional darkroom, you will explore traditional developing techniques, as well as digital processes using industry standard editing software. Using DSLR cameras you will experiment with composition, lighting, and camera settings to build your confidence and hone your style. You will gain insight into how photographers communicate ideas, evoke emotion and respond to the world.

You will visit major exhibitions and galleries in London, as well as local studios and creative spaces, to see professional photography in action. Guest speakers and workshops will share insight into world industry practices and a range of creative career paths from photojournalism, fashion and editorial photography to advertising, fine art and digital media.

In your second year, you will complete a personal investigation, including a written analysis, that reflects your personal style and ambitions, alongside an externally set assignment where you will respond to a given theme, develop a project and produce a final outcome under exam conditions.

What do I need?

Grade 9-4 at GCSE in an art-based subject; a portfolio is also required at interview.

What next?

As part of the course you will share your work through a PechaKucha presentation, a fast paced, image-led showcase of your creative journey helping you develop the confidence to talk about your ideas just as professional photographers and artists do. This alongside the experience and skills gained equips you for a career in photography, or pursuit of the subject at higher level.

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Did you know?

From 1912 to 1948, you could win an Olympic medal in Art - winners were awarded in five categories: architecture, literature, music, painting and sculpture.