Photography is a creative and expressive subject that encourages students to explore the world through a lens. This course develops both technical and artistic skills, allowing students to work in traditional and digital formats while building a personal portfolio. It is ideal for students who enjoy visual storytelling, image-making, and experimenting with composition, lighting, and editing.

What will you study?

Students follow the AQA A Level Photography specification, which includes:

• Component 1: Personal Investigation – a portfolio of practical work based on a theme or concept of the student’s choice, supported by a written study in continuous prose
• Component 2: Externally Set Assignment – a project developed in response to a theme set by the exam board, culminating in a 15-hour practical exam

Students explore genres such as portraiture, documentary photography, still life, and experimental imagery.

Assessment

Assessment is entirely practical and based on the quality of the portfolio and final outcomes:

• Component 1: Personal Investigation – 60% of A Level
• Component 2: Externally Set Assignment – 40% of A Level

All work is internally assessed and externally moderated.

Entry requirements

To study Photography, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent)
• A Grade 4 in Art or Photography is recommended
• Students without a Grade 4 in English are encouraged to consider the BTEC Art and Design course

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Photography trips and location shoots
• Workshops with professional photographers
• Opportunities to exhibit work in school and local galleries
• Access to specialist equipment and editing software

These experiences help students develop their creative identity and technical expertise in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Progression and careers

Studying Photography opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Fashion, and Media
• Transferable skills in visual communication, creativity, and digital editing

This subject is highly regarded in the creative industries and supports progression into both higher education and employment.

“With Photography I enjoy the freedom we have to choose to work on photographs we are passionate about. I'm always encouraged to go big with my projects by my teacher, who is always there to help me achieve my best work.”
— Connie Currie-Rogers