Photography – Level 2

Required qualifications

To be accepted onto the course, you will need a minimum of 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, or you will have gained a minimum of a Merit grade in a relevant UAL or equivalent Level 1 qualification.

You should have a keen interest in photography and a willingness to learn.

A portfolio of work is optional but recommended.

What skills will I develop?

This course will provide you with an introduction to art and design, enabling you with skills, knowledge, and understanding that can be used across the industry including:

• Introduction to materials, processes and technical skills in art and design
• Introduction to contextual research in art and design
• Introduction to drawing skills
• Introduction to communication skills in art and design
• Solving 2D creative problems
• Solving 3D creative problems
• Solving time-based creative problems
• Developing and producing a personal project in art and design

The course has a specific focus on photography and will introduce you to both the creative and technical aspects of photography, helping you to develop practical skills in different photographic techniques and processes, and explore the history and theory of photography.

Key topics covered include:

• Photography techniques: Camera handling and settings; exposure, aperture, ISO, and shutter speed; composition and framing; and lighting techniques (studio and natural light)
• Digital image manipulation: Editing software (e.g. Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom); retouching and enhancing images; and creating digital portfolios
• Creative project work: Developing personal photography projects; visual storytelling and concepts; collaborative projects and exhibitions; and research and analysis of iconic photographers and artists

You will be encouraged to explore your creativity and develop your own individual style throughout the course.

Careers

The Level 2 course will help you prepare for study at a more advanced level and could lead to progression on to one of our Level 3 qualifications in Photography, Art and Design, or Fashion and Textiles, or on to an apprenticeship.

Completing higher-level qualifications, including university, could then lead on to a variety of creative careers including:

• Professional Photographer (freelance or commercial)
• Digital Image Editor
• Creative Director
• Visual Artist
• Graphic Designer
• Media and Advertising Professional

Work experience

To pass the course, you will be required to complete at least 40 hours of work experience throughout the year.

Whilst qualifications are hugely important, employers also require candidates to have relevant skills and experience necessary for the workplace, so it is never too early for you to start thinking about work experience placements and finding an employer who will offer you an opportunity.

A work experience placement will provide you with the opportunity to develop your skills, have a better understanding of the industry you want to work in, and give you an insight into what it is like to be employed. They can also be fun and rewarding, and you may be offered a great reference, a part–time job, holiday working hours, an apprenticeship, or even a full-time job if you impress during your placement.

There will also be internal opportunities for you to get involved with, such as capturing events or completing virtual projects, that will offer you some industry experience.

English and maths

If you don’t have a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths, you will be required to attend weekly GCSE classes alongside your course during your time at college. As well as these classes, you will have access to ‘CENTURY’ which is an online English and maths diagnostic and skills development website.

English and maths skills will also be embedded within your photography qualification.

Other important information

The course is project-based, and you will be assessed through a combination of:

• Practical assignments and projects
• Written and visual research work
• Final major project (portfolio presentation)

Our Art and Design department recognises the importance and value of viewing art and design in the context of a ‘live’ exhibition and invites you to join in with organised visits throughout the year to local and national venues including Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Ikon Gallery, The New Art Gallery Walsall, National Portrait Gallery, The National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, Tate galleries, as well as a weeklong study visit to a major European city such as Paris.