Art and Design (Photography)

Course summary

This course develops the pupil’s ability to appreciate and respond to the visual world in a personal, critical and creative way. Pupils will be introduced to a variety of experiences, exploring a range of photographic media, techniques and processes. The skills gained in this course will be varied, but pupils will be expected to develop a knowledge and understanding of SLR cameras, light, film types, viewpoints, composition and depth of field. It will also be possible to study the moving image. Digital and physical manipulation of photography is taught. There are a number of technical Photoshop lessons in order for pupils to develop these skills. Pupils will also develop a specialist vocabulary and understanding of the place of photography in history and in contemporary society. This is a new subject to most pupils, so no previous experience in photography is necessary. The pupil should, however, have a strong interest in creating and understanding photographic images and the determination to develop that interest. Pupils must employ imaginative approaches which go beyond mere observation and recording. Photography includes artwork in film, video and digital imaging.