GCSE Photography

Subject leader: Ms S Stirling

Email address: sstirling@mysackville.co.uk

Exam board: AQA

Course Description:

GCSE photography provides students with an extended opportunity to explore a wide range of photographic ideas. They will also learn to use photography equipment with confidence. Students explore many of the big themes in photography, investigating both famous and contemporary photographers as well as learning ways to both digitally and hand manipulate their work.   

Course Units

Areas of study In Component 1 and Component 2

Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of photography, such as those listed below:

  • portraiture
  • location photography
  • studio photography
  • experimental imagery 
  • installation
  • documentary photography
  • photo-journalism
  • moving image: film, video and animation 
  • fashion photography. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas. 

The coursework folder accounts for 60% of the GCSE marks. A practical exam project is awarded 40%.

Assessment:

Assessment objectives (AOs) Component 1 Component 2
AO1 Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical understanding of sources.
AO2 Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with appropriate media, materials, techniques and processes.
AO3 Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses.
AO4 Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and demonstrates understanding of visual language.
Overall weighting of components: Component 1: 60% Component 2: 40%
Students are given regular feedback throughout the course, which helps them to improve their work.

Why should I study this course?

A GCSE photography equips you with these transferable skills: Imagination, creativity and resourcefulness; critical awareness of self and external factors and the ability to be reflective; interpersonal and social skills; an appreciation of diversity; creative problem-solving and decision-making; team working; the ability to work independently; oral and written communication; visual presentation; information and research; self-motivation and self-management; organisation and planning; IT, particularly using creative software such as Photoshop. Many students choose photography GCSE as a creative and practical subject that provides contrast to their other subjects. Photography GCSE would also give you a great start if you have decided to study photography at A Level and beyond.

Student Quote:

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