This is an exciting, stimulating subject that encourages creative self-expression. Photography at Sir John Deane’s is about students and tutors working together in a supportive and dynamic atmosphere.
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 Photoshop and there are a selection of DSLR cameras, lenses and tripods which we loan out. We do rely on students generally having their own kit to back this up.
Students are taken to galleries in the area as well as on location days. Study trips abroad are also offered and in recent years students have visited Barcelona, Berlin, Paris and New York.
Some students have worked with local businesses and organisation, such as the Weaver Hall Museum. Our photographers are also regularly given the opportunity to record student at the College. You will also be encouraged to actively seek your own venues and locations for image making. Visiting professional photographers are often used to inspire slideshow talks.
A proportion of our students go on to study Photography as a degree subject or a related area such as film and media. Others will use the A level to apply for a foundation course in general Art and Design. Photography careers include photo-journalism, fine art photography, wedding and occasions, forensics and medical, marine and sport as well as industrial and editorial. Photography is also a valued A level for access to a huge variety of other creative industries, including fashion, 3D design and interior design to name a few.
Coursework Portfolio (four months) – 60% of marks
Externally Set Assignment (eight weeks) – 40% of marks
Summary
Coursework Portfolio
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
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. All work is practical and there is no written examination
Students should begin to look at the work of other photographers and artists both on the internet and in gallery spaces around the north west and, if possible, London. As a course, art history is a clear requirement and we will be asking students to have an appreciation of a variety of approaches. Students may also begin to put together photographs either with a phone camera or DSLR which follow a simple project rather than simply recording anything and everything they see.
Although some cameras are available to borrow on a night or weekend basis, it is preferable for students to have their own DSLR if possible. We use Nikons at the College and would suggest students use the same so that our lenses can be borrowed. Students will also need a large mobile hard drive to store their work on. Though not a necessity, a good tripod and an off camera flash gun are desirable.
Study Level
A Level
Exam Board
AQA
Contact Details
Mr S Davies
Head of Department
davies_s@sjd.ac.uk
Explore our online portfolio to discover some of the incredible work created by Sir John Deane’s students.
We also have a popular Instagram page, showcasing all things art and design at Sir John Deane’s! Click on the link below or search @sjdartanddesign