GCSE Photography at Crawshaw Academy is a creative and practical course for students who enjoy taking photographs, developing ideas, and experimenting with digital imagery. Students learn how to communicate ideas, emotions and messages through photography while developing technical skills using industry-standard equipment and software.

Our Photography department is fully equipped with a dedicated photography studio, a full set of digital cameras, and access to professional editing software including Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom. Students have opportunities to work both in the studio and on location, developing their skills in image capture, editing and presentation.

What will students study?

Students can explore a range of photographic genres, including:

• Portraiture
• Location photography
• Studio photography
• Experimental imagery
• Documentary photography
• Photojournalism
• Fashion photography
• Moving image, film, video and animation
• Installation work

Throughout the course, students investigate the work of photographers and artists from historical and contemporary contexts, using these sources to inspire and develop their own personal projects.

Skills Developed

Students will learn how to:

• Use a camera confidently and creatively
• Control lighting, aperture, shutter speed and depth of field
• Explore different viewpoints and compositions
• Edit and manipulate images using Photoshop and Lightroom
• Plan and organise photoshoots
• Develop and present a personal photographic portfolio
• Analyse and evaluate the work of photographers and artists

Students will also explore visual elements such as colour, tone, texture, pattern, contrast, shape and composition to create meaningful and engaging photographic outcomes.

Assessment

Component 1: Portfolio (60% of GCSE)

• Completed from September of Year 10 until January of Year 11
• Marked out of 96
• A sustained project and supporting work demonstrating all four assessment objectives

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of GCSE)

• Begins in January of Year 11
• Marked out of 96
• Preparation period followed by 10 hours of supervised assessment time
• Students respond to a theme set by AQA and produce a personal outcome

Progression Opportunities

GCSE Photography provides an excellent foundation for further study in:

• A Level Photography
• A Level Art and Design
• BTEC Art and Design
• Creative Media courses
• Photography, graphic design, advertising, marketing and digital media careers

If you are creative, curious and enjoy working with technology, GCSE Photography offers an exciting opportunity to develop artistic and technical skills. The course encourages independence, creativity and experimentation while providing access to professional equipment, studio facilities and industry-standard software, helping students produce high-quality photographic work and build a portfolio they can be proud of.

Useful Inspiration Websites

• Pinterest – https://uk.pinterest.com
• This Is Colossal – www.thisiscolossal.com
• TrendHunter – www.trendhunter.com
• Tate – www.tate.org.uk
• Saatchi Gallery – www.saatchigallery.com

Examination Board: AQA