GCSE Photography is an exciting and creative course designed for students with an interest in visual storytelling, image-making, and the art of photography. This course provides a strong foundation in both the technical and artistic aspects of photography, encouraging students to develop their skills and personal style.

Course Content

The GCSE Photography course covers a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Camera Techniques: Understanding the functions and settings of a camera, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition.
• Digital Editing: Learning to use software such as Adobe Photoshop to enhance and manipulate images.
• Photographic Genres: Exploring various genres of photography, such as portraiture, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography.
• History of Photography: Studying the development of photography and influential photographers.
• Creative Projects: Developing personal projects that showcase individual creativity and technical skills.

How will this subject be assessed? 

The GCSE Photography course is assessed through two main components:

1. Portfolio (60%): Students produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills, creativity, and understanding of photography. This portfolio includes a range of photographic work and supporting studies.
2. Externally Set Assignment (40%): This component involves a practical photography project set by the exam board. Students will have a preparatory period to develop ideas, followed by a timed practical exam to produce their final piece.

Both components are worth a total of 96 marks. 

The portfolio is structured around three key projects:

• Formal Elements – Students will investigate essential photographic elements such as line, shape, texture, tone, and colour, learning how to compose visually engaging images.
• Technical Workbook – A comprehensive study of compositional techniques and camera settings, equipping students with the technical knowledge needed to enhance their photographic practice.
• Out of Place – This creative project challenges students to experiment with juxtaposition and context, producing thought-provoking images that convey a sense of displacement or contrast.

Skills Developed

Students will gain valuable skills through this course, such as:

• Technical proficiency in using cameras and editing software.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving.
• Research and analytical skills.
• Visual communication and storytelling.
• Time management and project organisation.