AS/A2 Digital Photography

What does studying digital photography involve?During the first year the course provides you with the opportunity to explore experiences, ideas and insights with the camera both on location and using our excellent photographic studio. Recording the process of this exploration is an important part of the course students do this by using manual techniques presenting work in sketchbook format and digitally.

You will learn how to control the manual functions of the camera in order to create different visual effects. You will be introduced to image editing software Adobe Photoshop in order to subtly heighten the quality of your images. In your research you will look at images that serve a variety of purposes from creative expression to communication of meaning or messages. Your understanding of the history of photography will broaden as you analyse and evaluate the work of other photographers and artists whose ideas or techniques relate to your own work.

The AS (first year) progresses on to A Level (second year) with further opportunities to pursue and develop your own portfolio towards entry onto higher education courses in Photography, Multi-Media Design, Photo-Journalism, Fine Art and many other related degree courses. The end of Year 12 culminates in a three day residential trip to London to broaden contextual knowledge and prepare students for the essay they will complete in their second.

Progression
This course provides a sound basis for progression to a wide range of Art & Design in Media degree courses available at local and national higher education institutions. Careers in specific disciplines such as photography, illustration or graphic design, or the wider arena of gallery work, community arts and art or fashion marketing are available. Visits to higher education courses and end of year exhibitions are arranged to help students to make informed choices about their future. Portfolio and interview preparation is a fundamental aspect of the second year course. We continue to maintain strong links with prestigious universities by visiting and studying their degree shows.