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Photography (Digital)

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Digital Photography will provide you with a rich platform to inspire a lifelong interest in Photography. It is a highly creative subject that will challenge you to respond to given briefs and themes by developing your own ideas.

You will have the opportunity to go on location shoots as well as explore studio techniques and learn how to select and manipulate images to communicate your ideas.

We have a fully-equipped computer suite as well as industry standard editing software available across the Academy. DSLR cameras are available for every student who chooses Digital Photography, although you may be inspired to buy your own.

Students are required to work within one or more area of photography, such as: portraiture; landscape photography (working from urban, rural and/or coastal environment); still life photography (working from objects or from the natural world); documentary photography; photojournalism; experimental imagery; multimedia; moving image (video, film, animation).

Students can progress onto university to study degrees in a variety of fields, including: photography; art & design; fine art; illustration; animation; film; journalism; advertising; graphics; fashion; and marketing.

Entry Criteria

5 in GCSE Art or GCSE Photography.

Companion Subjects

Media Studies

English Language

Career Paths

  • Wedding Photographer
  • Fashion Photographer
  • Commercial Photographer
  • Forensic Photographer
  • Graphic Design
  • Photojournalism
  • Marketing/Advertising
  • Film

A-Level Photography at St Wilfrid’s (AQA 7206)

Subject Intent

Photography is a space where students explore creative thinking, visual communication, and self-expression. Through a broad and inspiring curriculum, learners develop both technical skill and independent vision. This course nurtures curiosity, personal voice, and confidence—essential for a wide range of artistic and academic futures.

Course Overview

Title:

  • Photography (7206)

Includes two components:

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)

  • A practical portfolio of work based on an idea, issue, or theme of personal interest
  • Supported by a written element (1,000–3,000 words)
  • Internally assessed, externally moderated

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

  • Preparatory period followed by a 15-hour controlled assessment
  • A choice of themes set by AQA—students develop their own personal response

Assessment Summary

Component 1
Portfolio + written investigation
60%

Component 2
Externally Set Task (15-hour final piece)
40%

There is no written exam—assessment is entirely based on portfolio and final practical outcomes. Work is marked on:

  • Developing ideas
  • Refining techniques
  • Recording observations
  • Presenting a meaningful final outcome

Homework & Independent Study

  • Sketchbook or digital presentation development
  • Gallery or online exhibition reviews
  • Artist research and contextual analysis
  • Experimentation with new media or techniques
  • Portfolio refinement and annotation

Enrichment Opportunities

  • Trips to art galleries, studios, and exhibitions
  • Artist or designer workshops
  • Cross-subject projects (e.g. with fine art, textiles, or media)

Where Can Art Take You?

This A-Level supports careers and courses in:

  • Fine Art, Illustration, Graphic Design, Architecture, Photography, Fashion, Animation, Art History, and Curation
  • It’s also valuable for any career that values creative problem-solving, independent thinking, and visual literacy

Universities, design schools, and creative employers all value a strong portfolio—and this course helps students build one with pride.

Curriculum Content

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