Art and Design - Photography

It is not a requirement to have studied Art at GCSE, but you will need to be self-motivated, as many photographic projects need to be undertaken out of school time. 

You do not need your own digital or 35mm film camera, although both would be useful. 

Over the two year course, students will cover the following:

• History of photography  
• Contextual studies of photography and photographers 
• The creative application of camera skills 
• Framing and composition  
• How to create a narrative 
• Genres – understanding the different topics from fashion, and street photography to still life and Ai. 
• How to research a Personal Investigation. 
• Writing about images 
• Using a darkroom. Processing and printing. 
• Use of Adobe Creative Suite. 

Lower Sixth

In th Lower Sixth, students will have the opportunity to experience both digital and chemical photographic processes and explore and understand the different genres.  

This phase provides the basis for one extensive practical project. 

Alongside this work, you will be expected to build up evidence of your awareness of the context of photography within culture to complement and inform your practical work. 

Upper Sixth

In the Upper Sixth students will complete the following:

• Personal Investigation
• Externally-set Assignment 

Lower Sixth

During the first year of the course, you will have the opportunity to experience both digital and chemical photographic processes and explore and understand the different genres. This phase provides the basis for one extensive practical project.

Alongside this work, you will be expected to build up evidence of your awareness of the context of photography within culture to complement and inform your practical work.

Upper Sixth

Personal Investigation (worth 60%) 

This is a practical investigation, supported by written material. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.
The aim is to produce a significant ‘body of work’ such as you might produce for a gallery exhibition.

Externally-set Assignment (worth 40%)

Students are expected to respond to an externally set range of questions.
This involves a preparation period from February and 15 hour supervised time.
Both portfolios of work are then curated by the students with help from the department in preparation for external moderation.

Throughout the Photography A Level course, students will have the opportunity to visit London galleries and masterclass talks. We also frequently invite artists into the school, to give insight into working as a professional artist.

If you have a specific enquiry for the Art Department, email art@kes.hants.sch.uk