Photography (Y12-13)

This course is studied as part of the Career-Related Programme alongside 2 or 3 IB Diploma Courses and the CP Core.

Note: This course is taught at the Queen’s Park High campus next door, the rest of your programme courses will be taught at Chester International School. Learners will therefore benefit from all facilities across both sites.

What will I Study?

If you are attracted by the creativity and expressive aspects of photography then this course is for you. With the chance to learn digital photography techniques you will be able to create a portfolio of stunning images. This is an exciting, stimulating subject that encourages creative self-expression. You will learn about different technical aspects of photography including lighting, depth of field, lenses, and instruction in Photoshop. You will be expected to learn how to present your images using a variety of sources for inspiration including the environment, still life and figure/portrait. You will focus on digital photography and manipulation rather than traditional darkroom practice and wet media. Digital portfolios are created using PowerPoint presentations combined with a full set of Inkjet prints for all final work.

Students will have access to PCs with the full Adobe Creative Cloud package including Photoshop and there are a selection of DSLR cameras, lenses and tripods.

Candidates will study the following:

Year 12 Structured taught units of work to produce a series of sketchbooks and final pieces covering the four assessment objectives. Students will have the opportunity for experimentation in photography and post editing which will allow them to develop their own interests within the subject. This leads students towards establishing confidence for the full A Level in Year 13.

Coursework Portfolio (60%)

A portfolio of visual photographic ideas based on a theme set by the students themselves. Students work through a process of ideas development and a sense of journey from first ideas to final shoots. All work will be supported by analysis and research as well as planning and reviews. Students create a written essay of 1,000-3,000 words based on their journey throughout the process.

Externally Set Assignment (40%)

Students select from a number of themes given by the exam board; to research and develop creative photography processes and outcomes, while demonstrating a visual journey from the starting point. There is a 15 hour exam period to complete this task. All work is practical and there is no written examination.

What opportunities will I have?

Students will enjoy a wide range of activities undertaken during the course, including:

Work Experience

Learners will be able to take advantage of short term and longer-term placements so they can ‘learn on the job’. A mandatory one-week work placement will also be arranged to gain an insight into the world of Photography. This essential part of the course has also proved to be of great benefit when applying for further education courses or paid employment. Many students have also found that it has broadened their horizons in terms of what they would like to do for their career after Sixth Form.

Progression

Often learners will select 2 or 3 of the following diploma courses to complement this option: IB Film, IB Visual Arts, IB English, IB Theatre.

This course can lead on to further study at university in a wide range of subjects areas including a BA (Hons) Degree in photography. Careers this this could lead onto are: photographer’s assistant, and freelance or full time opportunities in advertising, fashion and editorial work, newspapers and magazines, industrial and commercial, scientific or police and forensic work.