Photography

Photography
Photography AS/A2 (EdExcel)

Photography islargely practical and is concerned with visual communication skills, enabling students to develop creative and innovative methods of expressing their personal vision.

You will carry out projects complemented by in-depth research and critical analysis of the work of other photographers, designers and artists.Photography students use a variety of black and white photographic techniques and experiment with digital media.

How is the Course Structured? Is there a Final Exam?
The course is structured around the 2-unit Edexcel specification for photography:
AS Photography (50% of A2)
Unit 1 Coursework. You will undertake 3 projects set by your tutors and at the end of each project you will produce one final piece of work. This unit is worth 60% of your AS grade.
Unit 2 Externally Set Assignment includes a Timed Test.You will be issued with an assignment, set by the exam board. You will have 8 weeks to do this unit and then a timed test of 8 hours duration. This unit is worth 40% of your AS grade.

A2 Photography: Unit 3 (30% of A2); Unit 4 (20% of A2)
Unit 3 coursework .This involves two linked elements: practical work and a personal critical and contextual study the results of which will be synthesised in an illustrated essay.
Unit 4 - Externally Set Assignment. You will prepare for 8 weeks before undertaking a 12-hour Timed Test.

After studying Photography at AS and A2 you could either take a one-year foundation course at an Art College, or go directly to do a degree in Photography.

Forthis subjectno previous experience is necessary, but enthusiasm and commitment are essential. To see some of the students' work look atour Photo Gallerybelow.

The coursewill help you develop:

• practical, technical and expressive skills
• imagination, creativity and intuition
• the ability to investigate and analyse
• a willingness to experiment
• aesthetic understanding and critical judgment
• visual awareness
• self-confidence and the ability to problem solve

Advanced courses in Photography, Artand Graphic Design involve a high percentage of practical work, taking a lot of time. Although the three subjects complement each other, it is not advisable to take all three because of the workload.

The Photography department occupies purpose-built accommodation in the Visual Arts Centre, opened in September 2002. The Centre provides excellent facilities, including studios, darkrooms, and IT suites, allowing students to develop and share ideas across subject boundaries.