Learning how to capture, edit, and present images creatively using cameras and digital techniques.

A Level

Photography

Quick Summary

Heavy coursework – About 80% coursework portfolio, 20% written analysis

Own equipment – A decent camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality phone) is essential

Time intensive – Photography coursework requires planning shoots, taking hundreds of photos, editing, printing, and mounting

What's it actually like?

IN A NUTSHELL

A-Level Photography is almost entirely coursework-based. You'll develop portfolios of photographic work exploring different themes, styles, and techniques. You'll research photographers, experiment with composition and lighting, develop personal projects, and create final pieces.
You'll typically complete a personal investigation (60% - exploring themes over time) and an externally set assignment (40% - responding to exam board themes). Both require research, experimentation, refinement, and written analysis.
It's about 80% practical photography and 20% written analysis of your own work and others' work.

Photography suits people who want to develop as visual artists and communicators.

You need your own equipment: A decent camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality phone camera) is essential. Schools have some equipment, but you'll need your own for homework and independent projects.

About the course

Is this for you?

Camera skills and techniques

You'll learn how to use a camera properly, control settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, and compose effective images.

Styles and influences

You'll explore different types of photography, such as portrait, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography. You'll study the work of photographers and artists and use their ideas to influence your own projects.

Creating your portfolio

A large part of the course is creating coursework projects. You'll plan ideas, take photos, edit and improve them using software like Photoshop, and present your work in a portfolio with written explanations of your choices.

Assessment

Assessment is based on coursework and a final exam project. Overall, Photography is about developing your technical skills, creativity, and ability to communicate ideas through images.
Photography is a good choice if you:

Genuinely love photography and taking photos

Want to develop your creative vision and technical skills

Are willing to spend significant time planning, shooting, and editing

Enjoy experimenting and don't mind when shots don't work out

Can work independently on long-term projects

Are interested in photography as art, not just taking nice pictures

Want to understand the theory and context behind photography

Can meet deadlines whilst managing substantial coursework
Creative vision - Developing your own artistic style and visual voice.

Technical photography skills - Understanding composition, lighting, exposure, depth of field, and camera settings.

Digital skills - Using editing software (Photoshop, Lightroom) to refine images.

Research & analysis - Studying photographers and photographic movements to inform your work.

Project management - Planning, executing, and refining long-term creative projects.

Visual communication - Using images to express ideas, emotions, and narratives.
It's time-intensive: Photography coursework requires planning shoots, taking hundreds of photos, editing, printing, and mounting. Budget significant time.

Software matters: You'll likely need access to Photoshop or Lightroom. Schools often provide this, but check. Editing is a major component.

It's not just "taking photos": You'll research photographers, understand art history, write about your process, and critically evaluate your work.

Coursework pressure is constant: Unlike subjects with final exams, Photography is ongoing coursework throughout two years. You need consistent work ethic.

Some universities don't rate it highly: Very competitive universities sometimes see Photography as less rigorous. Combine it with more traditional academic subjects if keeping top university options open.

You need genuine creative drive: Your teachers guide you, but the creative vision must come from you. If you need step-by-step instructions, this will be challenging.
Photography + Art + Graphics = Full creative focus

Photography + English + Media = Creativity with analytical skills

Photography + History + English = Balanced with traditional academics
Photography rewards experimentation and personal vision. Here's how to succeed:

Shoot constantly – Take photos every day, not just for coursework. Carry your camera everywhere. The more you shoot, the better your eye becomes. Experiment with different subjects and styles.

Study photographers deeply – Don't just copy their style. Understand WHY photographers like Cartier-Bresson, Annie Leibovitz, or Steve McCurry made their choices. Let their work inspire but not dictate yours.

Master editing software – Learn Photoshop or Lightroom properly. Watch tutorials, experiment with tools, understand layers and adjustments. Editing can transform good photos into great ones.

Document your process thoroughly – Keep detailed annotations of your ideas, experiments, influences, and developments. This documentation is crucial for assessment and shows your thinking.
Photography graduates work as:

Photographers (commercial, fashion, editorial, wedding, portrait)

Photo editors

Gallery curators

Art directors

Media producers

And in many creative roles.
Photography is valued by universities. Universities recognize the creativity, technical skills and visual communication it develops.

Photography A-Level opens doors to degrees in:

Photography

Fine Art

Graphic Design

Fashion Photography

Film and Television Studies

Media Production

Visual Communication

Top tip: A strong portfolio is essential for creative degrees - your Photography A-Level work will form the foundation of this. Many universities want to see your creative process, not just finished images.
Ask yourself:

Do I already take photos regularly and enjoy it?

Am I willing to invest in equipment and software?

Can I work independently on long-term creative projects?

Do I enjoy experimenting and refining my work?

Am I interested in photography as art, not just documentation?

Can I handle constant coursework rather than final exams?

Broader application: Visual literacy and creative thinking are valuable across design, marketing, media, and many industries.

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