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About the course

The OCR A Level Photography course is a comprehensive and engaging program designed to cultivate students' artistic and technical skills in photography. This course explores various aspects of photography, including historical developments, contemporary practices, and critical analysis. Students delve into a wide range of photographic genres, such as portrait, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography, allowing them to develop a diverse portfolio of work. The course emphasises the importance of creativity, visual storytelling, and critical thinking. Throughout the curriculum, students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of photography's cultural, social, and ethical dimensions. Assessment includes both practical coursework, written components and a final creative final assessment, fostering a well-rounded appreciation for the art and science of photography.

Entry requirements

A minimum score of 5 from 7 GCSEs to include English, Maths, and science along with four other GCSE grades or equivalent (not including short courses or Citizenship). See Subject Requirements Guide for details.

GCSE English Language or English Literature at score of 5 or above.

How much does it cost?

Free to those aged 16-18

There is a range of financial support that you may be entitled to, including: Learner Support funds, grants and bursaries and employer support.

You will be expected to pay for stationery and textbooks.

Awarding body

OCR

Why study?

Photography, as a subject is a creative, practical, artistic and intellectual endeavour.

Learning photography has many benefits – it can help you enormously in your other studies by creating image and text lay-outs and in decoding the meaning within images. The study of photography can lead to a wide range of employment opportunities within media, commercial photography or academia. In this course you will explore a variety of fascinating topics, studio portraiture, documentary, creative image making, etc. Additionally, learners are able to express their own perspectives through their own self-directed projects. During this process you will develop photographic skills, experience in image editing software (Photoshop) and the confidence to analyse visual images.

Two Commercial Photography Placements for local businesses.

Practical things will do in each module:

  • Research
  • Analysis
  • Experimentation
  • Post-production
  • Creative Projects

Where will this course take me?

You may continue your study of photography at university, either as a single subject degree or as part of a wider degree such as Media or Marketing. Several job opportunities exist for graduate students with employment opportunities in advertising, fashion, social documentary, etc. Additionally, the study of photography can lead to roles within the media industry such as (digital retouching and videography).

  • Professional Photographer
  • Photojournalist
  • Curator/Gallery Manager
  • Art Director
  • Visual Content Creator

Core modules

Component 1: Personal Investigation

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment

How will I be assessed?

Coursework and final timed assessment

Will I have to provide anything?

Studio & Equipment Charge

SD Memory Card

What should I do now?

Call 01279 868100 and talk to an Admissions Adviser
Ask Us a question about this course

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