Photography
You will be introduced to a variety of photographic media, techniques and processes, including traditional black and white darkroom printing as well as digital photography. You learn to research photographers’ work in depth, and link these ideas with your own work. You will be encouraged to explore ideas and push the boundaries of the medium, and develop your own individual creative concepts and approaches to photography. Understanding your SLR camera is key: using depth of field, movement, working with different films, lenses, filters and lighting. You will benefit from a wide range of facilities, including two darkrooms and a studio environment in Year 2.
Year 1
- Learn to use a 35mm SLR film and Digital SLR camera
- Develop and print black and white images
- Experiment with colour images both manually and digitally using Photoshop.
- Learn about the history and techniques of photography from the 19th century to contemporary images to extend your own photographic ideas
- Visit galleries in London to see photography exhibitions
- Attend lectures by visiting Photographers
Year 2
- Develop your personal ideas on photography
- Practise finer techniques of black and white darkroom printing
- Experiment more widely with black and white and colour images, further exploring your camera techniques
- Continue to learn new Photoshop skills and print large colour images
- Extend use of digital SLR and a variety of lenses
- Study an aspect of photography you particularly enjoy and write an illustrated essay
I have loved being introduced to dark room photography. I have loved how supportive the tutors are and how they challenge and push you to be the best you can.
Course Essentials
Courses Available
A Level
How The Course is Assessed
60% coursework, 40% externally set assignment
Career Pathways
Many students continue their studies through foundation courses and specialist photography degrees. Others take degree courses in subjects such as media, film, graphics, animation, illustration, fashion, advertising and fine art. The A Level could provide a gateway into a structured commercial career.
Transferable Skills
Creative visual and technical skills; transferable research skills; contemporary and historical subject knowledge and project development techniques.
Other Information
You must have your own 35mm Digital SLR camera and access to a 35mm SLR Film camera, and a tripod would be an advantage. Extra materials are available to buy in the College student shop. A3 paper and digital logbooks are used to record your progress and research.
Enquiries To
Dipak Gohil: dig@varndean.ac.uk
Creative Arts Showcase 2024
International Trips
Visual Arts love to go on international trips, most recently we’ve been to Paris, Madrid and Berlin. Our artists, designers and photographers return from visits abroad with well-used sketchbooks, hundreds of photographs and many new and creative ideas to develop in their projects back at college.