What is this course about?

The AQA A Level in Photography provides a variety of experiences that explore a range of photographic media, processes and techniques. Students will learn how to use both traditional techniques and new technologies. They will develop skills in portraiture, landscapes, still-life, fashion photography, experimental imagery, multimedia, photographic installation and moving image.

Students explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to Photography and a wider range of art and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. This is integral to the investigating and making processes. Students’ responses to these examples will be shown through practical and critical activities that demonstrate their understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.

What content is on the course?

The A Level Photography (AQA) content is in 9 topics. Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of photography listed:

• Portraiture
• Landscape photography (working from the urban, rural and/or coastal environment)
• Still life photography (working from objects or from the natural world)
• Documentary photography, photojournalism
• Fashion photography
• Experimental imagery
• Multimedia
• Photographic installation
• Moving image (video, film, animation)

Course Assessment

• Component 1: Personal Investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by written material (60% of A Level, internally assessed)
• Component 2: Externally-set Assignment (40% of A Level, externally assessed)