A Level Photography

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Course Type:

A Level Subject

Entry Requirements:

3 GCSE passes at a minimum of Grade 4 and 2 at Grade 5, which must include English Language and Maths at Grade 4.

Start date:

Sep 2026

Course Overview

See the world differently with A Level Photography!

You’ll develop your technical skills, explore a range of creative styles, and build a professional portfolio that showcases your unique vision.

Working with digital and traditional media, you’ll learn how to tell stories through images and prepare for careers in photography, media, marketing or art.

Capture your creativity and open new doors to exciting opportunities.

Course Overview

If you’re creative, love taking photos, and want to tell stories through powerful images, A Level Photography is the perfect course for you. This is your chance to explore both traditional and digital photography, experimenting with styles from portrait and fashion to documentary, landscapes, experimental imagery and mote. You won’t just learn how to take photos—you’ll discover how to bring ideas to life and communicate meaning visually.

You’ll get hands-on with cameras, lighting, and composition, mastering technical skills like using a DSLR, working with the exposure triangle, editing with Photoshop, and even exploring darkroom techniques. Alongside practical projects, you’ll research the work of inspiring photographers from different times and cultures, helping you to develop your own unique style and voice.

The course is split into two parts: a Personal Investigation, where you’ll build a portfolio and complete a written study on a theme that excites you, and an Externally Set Assignment, where you’ll respond to a theme set by the exam board and produce a final piece under controlled conditions.

Throughout the course, you’ll be encouraged to think independently, experiment creatively, and reflect on how photography influences—and is influenced by—society and popular culture. You may even have the chance to exhibit your work, showing off your skills to others.

Whether you dream of a career in the arts, fashion, media, or film—or just want to take your passion for photography to the next level—this course is your opportunity to make your ideas shine.

Additional Information

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How is the course delivered?

To enrol on this course, you will need 3 GCSE passes at a minimum of Grade 4 and 2 at Grade 5, which must include English Language or Literature and Maths at Grade 4.

How my learning will be assessed?

A Level Photography is assessed through a combination of coursework and a final exam project, completed across the two-year course. Coursework makes up 60% of the final grade and involves a Personal Investigation: a practical portfolio of photographs supported by a written element (around 1,000–3,000 words) exploring your creative journey. The remaining 40% comes from an Externally Set Assignment (ESA), where you’ll respond to a theme provided by the exam board. This includes a preparatory period followed by a 15-hour supervised practical session to produce your final outcome. Assessment focuses on creativity, technical skill, and personal expression.

Course Facilities

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Potential Careers

A Level Photography builds your visual, technical, and creative skills, leading to careers like photographer (commercial, portrait, wildlife, or sports), photojournalist, videographer, or graphic designer. You could also explore roles in marketing, content creation, or museum and gallery curation. Many photographers go freelance, but starting as a photo assistant, retoucher, or studio manager helps you gain valuable experience. This course also opens doors to creative roles like digital marketer, art director, or multimedia specialist.