A Level Art (Photography)

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A Level Art – Photography, at Kimbolton

A Level Photography at Kimbolton School combines technical skill and creative exploration, offering students the opportunity to tell stories through powerful imagery.

This course equips you with the tools to create visually engaging work and develop your own photographic style.

We are unique in allowing artistic/creative students to study all three of our art-based subjects together.

About the course

Course code: AQA Art & Design – Photography (7206)

Preferred Photography entry requirements
GCSE Art is not essential so long as you have a keen interest in Photography, perhaps
as a hobby. A willingness to learn about photography, its history and its science. Ideally Grade 5 in English Language or English Literature.

Our AQA Art and Design – Photography course explores the technical and creative aspects of photography. Students will work with both digital and traditional methods to produce visually compelling projects.

Lower Sixth: Learn the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, and editing. Students develop a portfolio project to build technical skills and experiment with concepts.
Upper Sixth: Undertake a personal investigation, creating a cohesive body of work supported by a 3000-word essay that explores the themes, influences, and development of your project.

The course concludes with a 15-hour practical exam in May, where students produce a final piece to showcase their skills, followed by an open exhibition.

AQA A Level Art and Design – Photography syllabus

Assessment

During A Level Photography, you will develop technical and creative skills in capturing and editing images. In the Lower Sixth, you’ll build a foundation through a portfolio project, exploring lighting, composition, and post-production techniques.

In the Upper Sixth, your focus shifts to a personal investigation, where you’ll create a body of work supported by a 3000-word essay analysing your themes and influences. The course culminates in a 15-hour practical exam, where you produce a final creative piece to exhibit your skills and artistic vision.

Beyond the classroom

Students will be encouraged to develop their own passions in this subject, with the emphasis of finding their own voice.
Become a ‘School/House’ photographer – document school life, publish on our school website and/or School Magazine.
Take a photo each day – create your own monthly photo book. Consider how you will make this book, printed, handmade, digital?
Visit galleries and exhibitions to explore the art of photography
Participate in trips to culturally rich locations, offering dynamic photo opportunities
Experiment with editing software like Photoshop or Lightroom to refine your work
Document your journey through a visual diary or personal portfolio.

“Photography is not just capturing a moment—it’s about telling a story and sharing a perspective.”

A Level Art (Photography)