Photography

Curriculum Intent and Overview

The curriculum covers a wide range of opportunities which run alongside a rich extra-curricular timetable. This includes both creative and STEM elements. Students are extremely proud of their achievements, and they really value the supportive nature and encouragement the department gives them. The curriculum develops and promotes:

• A love for creativity and design
• Critical and lateral thinking, and problem solving
• Independent learning, and transferable skills

The Department

Curriculum Leader: Miss H Bowman

A Level

Exam Board: AQA

Specification Number: 7206

What will be studied?

This photography course allows students to demonstrate the ability to go beyond the traditional flat print, by using a variety of techniques and settings: these may include montage, printing onto/incorporating other materials/media, 3D constructions and digital development, installations and work presented as visual essays, for example a book may be produced. Students are able to specialise in the areas in which they are particularly interested through individual project work. Guidance is given in the use of materials and working methods, development of visual ideas and contextual studies.

Assessment:

At the start of the course, most lessons are directed towards broadening experience and the practice of basic methods and materials. Gradually during the course the emphasis changes towards self-directed projects where a more individual response can be achieved within the chosen project brief. Students are provided with a handbook which contains more guidance with specific targets and dates and room for tutorial notes.

Why Photography at St Albans Girls’ School?:

Specialist trained Photography teacher. MAC suite, and Photographic studio and lighting set up.

Expectations of students:

Students are expected to take part in personal and group
visits to galleries and exhibitions in order to experience work at first hand. Students must commit to five hours of photography preparation per week. Students must have access to a digital camera. The photography will be created digitally.  Students will develop their knowledge of digital manipulation using our Photoshop Suite.

What websites are recommended?

www.studentartguide.com

www.worldphoto.org/

What equipment is needed?

Recommended - a digital SLR, although there are a small number of school cameras that can be lent out to students.

Career paths:

Most photography courses at university require a portfolio for entrance from which they can judge the students' ability, commitment and potential for themselves. Completion of the course will help the students to develop a portfolio of the required standard.