photography coursework a level

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A-level Art and Design

7201, 7202, 7203, 7204, 7205, 7206

• Specification
• Planning resources
• Teaching resources
• Assessment resources
• Introduction
• Specification at a glance
• 3.1 Summary of subject content
• 3.2 Overarching knowledge, understanding and skills
• 3.3 Art, craft and design
• 3.4 Fine art
• 3.5 Graphic communication
• 3.6 Textile design
• 3.7 Three-dimensional design

3.8 Photography

• Scheme of assessment
• Non-exam assessment administration
• General administration

Students should be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of photographic media, techniques and processes. They should be made aware of both traditional and new technologies.

Students should explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. This should be integral to the investigating and making processes. Students' responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities that demonstrate their understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.

Students should use sketchbooks/workbooks/journals to underpin their work where appropriate. They may wish to develop their drawing skills in order to produce storyboards, thumbnail sketches and/or diagrams, where appropriate.

Students may use traditional methods and/or digital techniques to produce images.

Students should be aware of the four assessment objectives to be demonstrated in the context of the content and skills presented and of the importance of process as well as product.

Areas of study

Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of photography, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas:

• portraiture
• landscape photography (working from the urban, rural and/or coastal environment)
• still life photography (working from objects or from the natural world)
• documentary photography, photojournalism
• fashion photography
• experimental imagery
• photographic installation
• moving image (video, film, animation).

Skills and techniques

Students will be expected to demonstrate skills, as defined in Overarching knowledge, understanding and skills , in the context of their chosen area(s) of photography. Students will be required to demonstrate skills in all of the following:

• the ability to explore elements of visual language, line, form, colour, pattern and texture in the context of photography
• awareness of intended audience or purpose for their chosen area(s) of photography
• the ability to respond to an issue, theme, concept or idea, or work to a brief or answer a need in photography
• appreciation of viewpoint, composition, aperture, depth of field, shutter speed and movement
• appropriate use of the camera, film, lenses, filters and lighting for work in their chosen area(s) of photography
• understanding of techniques related to the production of photographic images and, where appropriate, presentation and layout.

Knowledge and understanding

Students must show knowledge and understanding of:

• relevant materials, processes, technologies and resources
• how ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in images and artefacts created in their chosen area(s) of photography
• historical and contemporary developments and different styles and genres
• how images and artefacts relate to social, environmental, cultural and/or ethical contexts, and to the time and place in which they were created
• continuity and change in different styles, genres and traditions relevant to photography
• a working vocabulary and specialist terminology that is relevant to their chosen area(s) of photography.

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• A-Level Programme - Photography

Our A-Level in Photography will enable you to explore a variety of approaches to photography. You will develop an appreciation of different approaches to recording images, such as observation, analysis, expression and imagination, alongside an awareness of intended audience or purpose of images.

On our A-Level programme, you will take three A-Levels. Please apply for three subjects and use our course selector here to check what options you can do!

Course Video - A-Levels

Course Video - Photography

If you want help with choosing your A-level subjects, visit the page below and use our A-level course selector.

A-level Course Selector

What will I study?

Taught in our outstanding photography suites, with dark rooms and photo studios, you will gain an appreciation of different ways of working, such as installation, portraiture, landscape, documentary and fashion, gaining an understanding of how ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in images.

Upon completing the course, you will have knowledge and understanding of the work of others, historical and contemporary developments, different styles, movements and genres and a working vocabulary and specialist terminology that is relevant to the photography industry.

You will need:

For the generic A-Level Programme you will need:

• GCSE grade 4 or above in English language and maths, plus at least 3 more GCSEs at grade 5 or above

For this specific A-Level you will need:

• GCSE grade 5 or above in relevant arts subject (Portfolio submission can support application)
• At least 2 other GCSEs at grade 5 or above

How long is this course?

When does this course start, how many hours / days per week is this course.

Full-time courses at CWA are generally 3 - 4 days per week (though you may be in for an extra day if you are resitting English and / or Maths). The college day is typically longer than a day at school and students will need to plan their individual study in their free time (including individual study hours which are recorded at college in the Learning Resource Centre or other study areas). Work experience will be a key component of your course and most students will complete a minimum of 60 hours per academic year (on top of their college hours), depending on the course they are studying. CWA has a dedicated team of work placement co-ordinators to support you with this.

* Some of our courses may have additional costs to cover trips, unform and equipment. These costs will be confirmed to you at enrolment.

Fee information

Though this course is free for those aged 16-18, there may be additional costs related to the programme, such as additional equipment and uniform, educational trips and work placement costs. Full details will be sent to applicants before enrolment.

Find all the information you need about course fees and financial help below.

Information on Fees and Financial Help

What qualification will I achieve?

AQA A-Level in Photography

How is my course assessed?

Component 1: Portfolio (60%)

During the first half of the year, you will develop a portfolio of images and supporting sketchbook that explores a variety of media, techniques and ideas.

Component 2: Externally Assessed Assignment (40%)

In February you will receive a question paper with a choice of five questions/themes to respond to. There will be a period of 10 hours under exam conditions towards the end of the year.

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) During the first half of year you will develop a personal investigation supported by a written project.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%) In February you will receive a question paper with a choice of eight questions/themes to respond to. There will be a period of 15 hours under exam conditions at the end of the year.

Starting 02/09/2024

King's Lynn

Duration 2 years

Apply Online

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A Level Photography

“At this moment in human history, I truly believe that photography is the most universal language on the planet. I think it’s the one language that everyone understands no matter what class they belong to, no matter what education they have, no matter how much money they have, no matter what verbal language they speak — photography is a profoundly rich visual language that is open to all to use and to understand.” - Jim Casper, founder of LensCulture.

Key information

Media, Photography & Games / Full Time / A Levels and Equivalent

Why choose this course?

Photography is an art of observation, it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them, allowing us to tell our story and vision through the lens. This course provides opportunities to engage in a broad range of projects to encourage creativity, observation, investigation, analysis and experimentation as a means of both developing technical, creative and critical skills. The course encourages a firm understanding of the broad visual and theoretical contexts in which contemporary photographers operate. Learners will begin the course by questioning how photography functions both culturally and socially, along with how it will contribute to their future progression. Students learn a broad range of technical skills including digital and post-processing, utilising Adobe Camera Raw, Bridge, Photoshop and Indesign. Analogue skills include shooting, processing and scanning film, darkroom printing and alternative photography techniques.

What will I learn?

Students complete a diverse range of projects working in the studio, the darkroom and on location. Exploring a range of contemporary and historical contexts, learners cover key photographic genres including landscape, portraiture, personal space, mixed media, fashion, documentary and street photography. Each project is designed to develop the skills required for students to undertake their own self-directed project during the second part of the course. The photography department is treated as a professional, creative, working studio, with all the necessary resources required for students to acquire the information, knowledge and inspiration required to create images competently and professionally.

Assessment Arrangements

Foundation Projects Year 1:  Introduction to photography, Landscape, Portraiture, Street Photography, Personal Space, Documentary, Mixed Media, Fashion and Studio Photography. Each project is designed to introduce the learner to a range of skills to support them through Components 1 and 2.

Year 2 Component 1:  Component 1 is a coursework project based on an area of photography, a genre or specific theme chosen by the learner. 60% of the mark is determined via the creation of the coursework based Personal Investigation consisting of a major in-depth, practical, critical investigative project/theme-based portfolio. Learners will be required to carry out an extended critical and contextual written analysis.

Spring Term and Summer Term Year 2:  Component 2: The Externally Set Assignment requires learners to independently develop a personal response to one of a varied range of stimuli. You will develop your response during a preparatory study period culminating in a 15 hour sustained focus study. All projects are assessed at regular intervals and constructive feedback is given.

Where will it take me?

The photography courses offered are designed to enrich and empower learners with a number of technical, visual and analytical skills that are transferable to a range of employment opportunities. Due to the accessibility and broad reach photography has, many job roles in a range of sectors now specifically request ‘photographic skills’. The creative industries is currently one of the largest employment sectors and successful completion of the course can lead to further study or employment in all areas of lens-based media and visual arts including: art foundation or BA honours in media, film, multi-media, graphic design, journalism, advertising, illustration and PR. More specific photographic roles include: assistant, commercial, forensic, police, armed forces, product, fashion, architectural, wedding, travel, wildlife, sports, editorial, journalist and medical photographer, along with stylist, re-toucher, picture editor, writer and curator.

What will I need?

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including grade 4 or above in an art-based subject and English Language or Literature at grade 5 or above. Callywith College provides all the industry standard equipment required to complete the course - cameras, tripods and lenses can be loaned out for a period of two days. Students will be required to purchase film, sketchbooks, photographic paper, memory cards, pens, glue and pencils, along with a few other things that are all available at cost from the college Art, Media and Photography store.

Additional Information

Awarding Body: Eduqas

To obtain more information about this course, please call: 01208 224000 or email [email protected]

From the course

Progression:  Journalism with Photography - Plymouth Marjon University Courses studied:   A level English Language, Photography and Sociology Previous School:  Wadebridge School How are you finding your course/experience at university?

"I'm currently studying BA Hons Journalism with Photography at Plymouth Marjon University, which I'm enjoying very much. I've had a great experience so far with learning more of the theory behind Journalism, and how to build on my writing skills. The photography side of the course started a bit later, however I have had access to all the equipment I need, even during lockdown, meaning I can shoot images as often as I like. Both sides of the course are coming together now, and it is really interesting learning how to tell stories through images. From next week we will be going to the BBC studios to learn the more practical aspects of Journalism, including radio and tv broadcasting. Starting University in 2020 has definitely been a very different experience, with such a huge majority of online lectures. However, I have still produced work I'm satisfied with and my lecturers have been there to help support us with any help we may need."

How did your time at Callywith influence and support your choice of/transition to university?

"From studying Photography, English Language and Sociology at A level, the combination of courses got me thinking about how I could use the skills I had learnt, to find a University course which I would enjoy. Callywith were great in helping me start the process of applying for different University courses and my lecturers were supportive and helped me to improve my work, in order to achieve grades I was happy with."

What do you enjoy in particular about studying Photography?

"I have always enjoyed photography from a young age, as there are so many different aspects to it. It's a really creative and fun way to express yourself and enables you to tell meaningful stories. The amount of kit and facilities I had access to at Callywith was amazing, and I learnt so much, from inspirational photographers to help inform my work, to new ways of editing and shooting images."

How have your A Level studies helped you in your degree?

"I knew from studying Photography at Callywith that I would want to include part of it in my course at University, and I'm glad I did as it allows me to combine both my writing and photography skills. The techniques that I learnt whilst being at college I have taken with me into my University course, and I hope to only develop them further."

What are you hoping to do in the future?

"In the future I would like to become a Photojournalist, or just be involved in some kind of role within the Journalism industry, as there are such a wide range of jobs available in the media."

Progression:  Media and Communications - University of Sussex

Courses studied:  A Level Geography, Media Studies and Photography Extra activities:  Academic Academy  Previous school:  Callington Community College How are you finding your course / experience at university?

Obviously during these crazy times my university experiences have altered since my first year. However, I have just been making the most of it with my housemates, living with you best friends in an incredibly diverse city such as Brighton definitely has its perks. In terms of my course that’s a tricky one, we all miss in person teaching, but having recorded lectures and seminars that I can return to when I need extra help writing an assignment is actually really useful. We're all just hoping that next year things are back to normal.

How did your time at Callywith influence and support your choice of / transition to university?

I’m actually the first member of my family to go to university, and it was a really nervous time for me applying and even how loans work because I didn’t have a family member to explain everything to me. However, Callywith was amazing in explaining the process to me, and my parents.

What do you enjoy in particular about studying media?

To put it simply, media is in our everyday lives, it’s unavoidable. It’s a reflection of societies values and constructs which have major influences. I wanted to study Media to understand these themes better, to gain an understanding of the ways in which it controls us. It’s an extremely relevant area to study, where important topics such as race, class, gender and feminism is debated in most classes. We study the serious issues, and that’s what I enjoy most. 

How have your A levels helped you in your degree?

Doing your A Levels is an extremely difficult point in your life, endless hours of revision and studying, but the truth is, it’s worth it. A-levels for me revealed the areas of academics that I really enjoyed, and provided me with notes and skills I still reflect on to this day. From key theorists to understanding the difference between quantitative and qualitative data my A level work still shows use in my university assignments.

What are your plans for the future?

The media industry is so vast I’m still unsure exactly what area I want to go into. From a personal point of view though, I would much rather work for a smaller independent company focusing of change and working with facts that bigger media conglomerates and Newspapers such as The Sun.

Progression:   Film Production - University of Gloucestershire  Courses studied:  A Level English Language, Media Studies and Photography Previous school:  Liskeard School How are you finding university?

I am absolutely loving it. I have met some great friends on my course despite restrictions as we were lucky enough to have three in person lessons a week in first semester, which has really helped my initial progress as almost everything is practical group work.

My time at Callywith really helped me to become more independent and was a great stepping stone from school to university. The lecturers were incredibly supportive with everything, especially applying to university.

What do you enjoy in particular about studying Media at university?

I chose to study at Gloucestershire because the course had everything I wanted out of a film degree and Cheltenham is also a lovely town to live in. I love studying film as it allows me to be creative but the collaborative nature adds a nice social element.

How has your A Level Media Studies helped you in your degree?

Studying media subjects at college has really helped in my degree so far with practical skills such as knowledge of editing software but also group skills such as organising a shoot and working alongside a crew. 

In the future, I am hoping to work on feature film sets as a production designer or 1st Assistant Director, and it would be amazing if I could travel around the world doing this job too.

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A-LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT IS PHOTOGRAPHY?

HOW IS IT STUDIED?

OCR A-Level Photography is taught within the two-year programme.

Photography is taught in small groups and there is an emphasis on photographic assignments. Students will explore a range of genres including portraiture; landscape photography; commercial photography; still life photography; documentary photography; experimental imagery; editorial photography; photographic installation; and the moving image/animation. Visits to local and national photographic exhibitions are woven into the course to expose students to a range of artists and styles, which they can use or respond to through their own work.

HOW IS A-LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY ASSESSED?

Exam Board: OCR

WHAT DO I NEED TO STUDY IT?

WHAT SHOULD I STUDY WITH PHOTOGRAPHY?

WHAT CAN I DO WITH A-LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY?

Questions about the course.

• Can I study A-Level Photography as a one year A-Level? Yes, if you are combining the A-level with the College’s one year BTEC Business Diploma and thereby studying the College’s BTEC+ course.
• Is Photography an acceptable subject for access to top universities? Photography is useful if you are aiming for an Art degree or a degree orientated toward practical Media or Film. It is accepted by all universities, but you may need to combine it with less practical subjects if you are aiming to study an academic subject.
• Do I need my own equipment or software? Students will need to bring their own laptop and camera. The laptop should be capable of running the Adobe suite, which will be installed by the college when you start the course.

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Level  3

Photography, a level.

This course is designed to develop your artistic skills and open doors to a creative career in photography. Throughout this programme, you will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic processes and techniques specific to photography. You will cover various aspects of photography, including traditional film photography, digital photography, experimental techniques, photo editing, and image manipulation. You'll have the chance to delve into each of these areas and specialise in the ones that resonate most with your individual talents and interests.

You will be encouraged to examine and take inspiration from a range of photographers, to find your own style and to push your creative boundaries to bring photography to life through both shooting and editing.

Located at Loxton Campus, our Sixth Form provides a purpose-built facility designed to simulate a university environment, preparing you for future higher education studies in photography. You will have access to subject-specific spaces and equipment, including darkrooms, digital labs, studio setups, and editing suites, helping you fully explore the diverse aspects of photography and develop your technical skills.

When you study here, you will automatically join our Career Excellence Hub, providing you with a range of additional opportunities to enhance your career prospects. We have established strong partnerships with respected photographers, agencies, and photography studios, enabling you to gain valuable work experience in the field. We'll support you in finding suitable placements or provide a week of experiences within the college that align with your career aims.

In the first year of your course, you'll have the opportunity to follow a pathway that aligns with your career aspirations in photography. Pathways such as media and creative will provide you with additional skills and experiences to enhance your career prospects. You'll be taught by experienced tutors who bring real-world industry experience to the classroom. Our engaging environment fosters lively discussions and collaborative learning, allowing you to benefit from the diverse perspectives and talents of your classmates.

Tutor Learning Mentors will guide you in developing effective study skills and preparing for exams. We offer dedicated assistance and guidance for interviews, whether you're applying to university or seeking job opportunities in the photography industry.

WHAT DOES THIS COURSE INVOLVE

You will experience a range of photographic approaches and skills including digital and analogue camera work, Adobe programmes, studio-based work and darkroom. You will investigate a range of experimental artistic styles and grow your skillset as a photographer through varied subject matter.

You will be expected to do a large amount of work in your own time, as the subject encourages a unique and individualistic approach. You are expected to show critical contextual understanding, creative making and reflective recording through written, visual, and other forms.

This programme is part of a Sixth Form offer, learners typically choose three or four A Level subjects to study over a two-year period. Which A Levels you study can affect your choices at university and your future career. Take a look here at our other A Level programmes

ASSESSMENT METHOD

There is an end-of-year assessment during your first year that determines progression into the second year. During your second year you will be assessed through coursework (60%) and controlled assignment (40%).

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

You could progress to degrees including Photography in Practice at University Centre Weston, or even the pre-degree Art and Design Foundation Diploma at the College. In addition, there are numerous professions within this field, including photographer, technician, educator, and curator.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Five GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and maths, and grade 5 or above in an art-based subject.

WHAT DO I DO NEXT?

Ready to apply – please use the ‘apply now’ button at the top of this page.

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I have a quick question – use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.

Category & Subject Area

i An interview is required for this course.

Fees Information

Level 2 qualifications.

This course may be Free* if you live in the South West of England and:

• receive Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), including those receiving National Insurance credits only
• receive Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• receive Universal Credit and your take home pay, as recorded on your Universal Credit statement (disregarding Universal Credit payment and other benefits) is less than £345 a month (learner is sole adult in the benefit claim) or £552 a month (learner has a joint benefit claim with their partner)
• are released on temporary licence, studying outside a prison environment, and not funded by the Ministry of Justice
• You are employed, or self-employed, and earn less than £18,525.00 annual gross salary.

Level 3 Qualifications

This course is Free* if:

The qualification you have chosen to study is part of the Legal Entitlements list and you are aged 19-23 at the start of your course and you do not already have a qualification at Level 3 or higher. From April 2021, any adult aged 24 and over who wants to achieve their first full level 3 qualification will be able to access certain courses we run for free.

The full fee is payable if:

• this is not your first full level 3
• the qualification you wish to study isn’t on the approved list of level 3 qualifications the College can run for free.

However, you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan .

Apprenticeships - Information for Employers

The cost of apprenticeships will be split into 30 funding bands ranging from £1,500 to £27,000. The prices will depend on the type of apprenticeship and the level it is taught at, and are negotiable with your training provider.

For 98% of employers, the reforms mean that employing an apprentice will be better value for money than ever before. Small businesses will only have to pay 5% of the training costs, with the Government picking up the remaining 95%. In some cases, the Government will fully fund apprenticeships for small businesses.

Click here for more information about how the reforms and levy will affect your company.

Advanced Learner Loans

You may be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan from Student Finance England, to fund the cost of your course. For further information and to check eligibility, please follow the links below:

• www.weston.ac.uk/supporting-you/financial-support 

Spreading the Costs

If the cost you have to pay for a course is over £120 and lasts for 24 weeks or more, you may be able to spread the cost.

To do this you will be asked for a 25% deposit at enrolment, plus any examination fees payable. You will then be invoiced for the remaining fee and provided with information on taking the instalment option where applicable.

Enhanced Learning Credits

Weston College is an approved provider of courses under the Ministry of Defence's Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) scheme. Enhanced Learning Credits are designed to promote lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces and ex-service personnel. ELCs provide a financial contribution towards a first full Level 3 qualification (Certificates and Diplomas), a first Foundation Degree, a first full undergraduate degree or national equivalents.

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Other Important information

While every care has been made to ensure the accuracy of our prospectuses and website, errors may occur from time to time resulting in incorrect information / fees being shown / printed.   

Fees quoted online and in our prospectuses are for the current academic year only, and are subject to change – two and three-year courses will have fees to pay again in subsequent years. 

You may still need to buy a uniform/kit which is your professional start-up kits or pay professional/personal memberships and all students will need to provide a National Insurance number and up-to-date proof of benefits, if applicable, at the time of enrolment. 

Please click here for our current term dates. 

If you are 16-18 years old on the 31st August in the current academic year, this course is usually Free. 

Students who are EU/EEA or Swiss Citizens who have lived in the UK before 1 January 2021 who do not have indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK or haven’t applied for the EU Settlement Scheme and been granted pre-settled or settled status – please contact the College Registrar on 01934 411 531 for advice on appropriate UKVI student visa fees before you enrol. 

Full refunds will be payable if we need to cancel a course. 

Tuition fee refunds are payable if you change your mind within 14 days of enrolling on your course and before the start of the course (10% of tuition fee or £25 administration fee whichever is larger will be charged). 

If you change your mind about a course before it starts or during the first three weeks, we will happily transfer you to an alternative course - you may need to pay any difference in fees or have a credit note issued to you if the course is cheaper. 

If you wish to withdraw from a course you can request a credit note for the remaining proportion of the tuition fees to a maximum of 50% of tuition fees paid (a £25 administration fee will be charged). Credit notes are valid for one calendar year. 

There are different terms and conditions for Higher Education courses - please call 01934 411 409 for further details. 

Discretionary Learner Support Fund

This is a College-administered fund which can support some costs associated with attending qualification courses. It is mean-tested against gross household income and limited in its amount per learner. For further information please contact Student Services on 01934 411 571. 

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A Level Photography

Course Code: NFAPO011

Course Level: Level 3

Study Mode: Full-Time

Course Type: A Levels and A+ Programmes

Course overview

Capture the beauty of the world through the lens of a camera with our A Level Photography course. 

This inspiring program combines technical skill with artistic vision, allowing students to explore the principles of photography while developing their own unique style. From darkroom techniques to digital image manipulation, students learn to master a variety of photographic processes and tools. Through practical assignments, creative projects, and critical feedback, students develop the skills to create compelling images that convey emotion, tell stories and provoke thought.

What's Covered?

A career based on skills in photography can take you into many sectors from media and fashion editorial to commercial advertising and photo journalism.

This course will introduce you to practical studio, darkroom and on-location photographic processes in addition to theoretical aspects of Photography as well as encouraging you to explore a variety of techniques and processes in a highly personal and meaningful way. You will perfect your skills and techniques in film and digital photography including composition, editing, image manipulation, colouring, processing, and visual effects. You will also learn how to operate in a business environment and lay the foundations for a potentially lucrative career.

The college boasts state-of-the-art facilities to help you learn including a cutting-edge studio with high-glider lighting system, darkrooms and an Apple Mac suite. You will make use of the studio and darkroom facilities and enjoy a wide variety of learning experiences such as lectures, guest speakers, workshops, trips, active learning and personal research.

There will be opportunities to participate in trips to collect research and images. To achieve the best grades in the subject you will own your own digital camera, enabling you to work outside college. A DSLR is preferable; if you have a compact or bridge camera, you may need to arrange occasional camera loan from the college. A film camera is also recommended along with a tripod.

Entry requirements?

How is it assessed.

Year 1 is based on a series of mini projects designed to introduce new skills and approaches on a wide range of themes. The year will end with a more sustained project aimed at preparing you for year 2 assessments.

In Year 2 you will produce:

1. Personal Investigation and related study (60% of A Level final grade). A practical project supported by a related study of 1,000 words minimum. You will be encouraged to undertake a range of research in support of your chosen theme. This should include museum or gallery visits.

2. Externally Set Assignment (40% of A Level grade) where you will choose from a variety of starting points, culminating in a 15 hour controlled practical test.

The two components combined are internally marked and externally moderated. Your final A Level grade is awarded based on the quality of research, experimental studies and final pieces evidenced in these modules.

Progression to year 2 will be dependent on successful completion of the first year taking into account Internal Progression Examination results and the Key Assessment Profile throughout the first year.

How do I find out more?

If you wish to find out more you can contact Amber Banks-Brumby, Subject Leader, by emailing: [email protected]

Follow the course on Instagram: nulc_photography_a level

What can I do next?

A Level Photography is a respected qualification for University entry or a career in the creative industries. Successful completion of the course is an excellent basis for progression to Higher Education or our own 1 year Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. Past students have gone on to study on courses including BA Honours in Photojournalism, Fashion Photography, Marine Photography, Fine Art and Forensic Photography in addition to degrees in Humanities and Science.

What financial support is on offer?

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18.  

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA):  Anyone with a household income under £26,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances.  For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance

achieved A*-B in 2023

What else do I need to know?

Think of what you're capable of. then think beyond it..

Step up to a top university or move into a competitive programme like Medicine or Law with our Honours Programme. Perfect for ambitious and high-achieving students.

The Honours Programme is an additional pathway for students whose aspirations are to progress onto highly competitive courses at top universities, such as those in the Russell Group. Once accepted onto the programme, you’ll be expected to commit extra time every week to this intensive support pathway.

Find out more  here

Course not right for you?

These similar courses may be more suited to you.

Stafford College

Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Practice

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Extended Diploma in Photography and Digital Media

Extended diploma in graphic and creative design, extended diploma in fashion and textiles, extended diploma in art and design, diploma in games design & 3d modelling.

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Photography

Course type, awarding body, introduction to photography.

Learn how to take better photographs that translate into creative and meaningful imagery. If you are interested in the world around you and your place within it, enjoy picture taking and would like to learn how to take better photographs that translate into creative and meaningful imagery then you would be very suited to the Photography course.

• Entry requirements

Subject grades: option a

GCSE grade 6 in English Language or English Literature

Subject grades: option b

GCSE grade 6 in Photography or Art (or similar subject title)​

Required Admissions Score

The indicative Minimum Entry Admissions Score for ​Photography is 58.

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About the Course

Studying Photography will give you a greater understanding of the world we live in and your place within it. We actively encourage individual project themes, ideas and experimentation, with a variety of discussion-based lesson activities to support your creative journey.

There is also the opportunity to take part in several study visits. We have a photographic studio, darkroom and dedicated computer suite, plus a range of film, digital cameras, accessories and lighting equipment available for loan. The course is essential in preparing you for degree-level study and is also ideal if you have a love of photography and wish to develop your skills further. No previous knowledge is necessary, but a keen interest in the subject is a must!

2023 Photography A level results

11% of our students achieved A* to A

36% of our students achieved A* to B 

100% of our students achieved A* to E

Course information

Why choose photography a level.

Studying A level Photography is more than just learning how to take good photographs. Photography is a visual language, on the course you will learn through a series of induction sessions how to creatively communicate a theme which holds importance to you, manage long term projects, problem solve, work independently and with others. These are all important life skills which are beneficial beyond the subject taught.

Course content

Previous experience, personal characteristics, skills development, independent study beyond the classroom, subject support, extracurricular activities, subjects that go well with photography, opportunities unique to this course, after hills road.

Want to find out more about your core A level programme?

Hear from our students

I have really enjoyed learning Photography at Hills Road as the support I have received has been incredible, and the teachers have been really helpful and supportive. Esha, Year 12 student

Photography is a great subject to take at Hills. They have a dark room and a studio, and they can provide everything you need. Lilly, Year 12 Student

Quick facts

61 year 12 and 13 students take Photography

4 hours and 20 minutes of weekly in-class learning time

Students are expected to undertake 5 hours of homework for each subject, every week.

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Art and Design Practice (Photography) National Diploma level 3 – P00118

Home > Courses > Art, Design & Graphics > Art and Design Practice (Photography) National Diploma level 3 – P00118

• Course Code P00118

Course Overview

This is the first year of a two-year course and is equivalent to 1.5 A levels. Successful progression can lead to entry onto the Extended Diploma Photography (equivalent to 3 A levels) in 2022/23. This course is ideal for complete beginners/anyone who is passionate about taking photographs using traditional and digital technology. If you are studying an art or photography GCSE, this is the natural progression to go into a full-time photography level 3 course and progress to university and/or work in the photography industry.

If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven’t already achieved a grade 4 or above. You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career.

If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities. For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.

What You'll Learn

In year 1 you will look at landscape, portraits, still life, experimental, documentary, advertising, and abstract photography. You will cover traditional film processes and digital technology using a variety of camera formats. You will also experience moving images (video); computer-aided design (Photoshop); drawing and illustration; professional practice; and study the history of art. You are expected to keep a sketchbook and write reports/essays. Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to enter competitions and will exhibit your work at local centres/galleries. It is important to mention that although you are on a photography course, you will be taught many different creative subjects alongside this specialism. This programme comprises 90 credits each year.

100% internally assessed this course is highly practical and progression focused. Featuring large, flexible teaching modules, it allows for practical and professional skills development

If you successfully complete year one, you will progress onto year two of this programme. The second-year content on the course involves negotiated projects; personal and professional development in art and design; art and design specialist contextual investigation; management of art and design projects; studio photography; photography location techniques; specialist location photography; digital image manipulation; and computer applications.

An external show is also part of the curriculum and students will investigate, plan, and deliver their own promotional external event.

Entry Requirements

Standard entry to this course requires one reference. It is desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance. 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) including English including an Art/Design related subject is required. GCSE Maths at grade 4 (C) or above is desirable. You will also require a portfolio that demonstrates your suitability for your chosen course.

Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold formal English and maths qualifications.

How you will be assessed

All units are assessed through practical assignments. You will receive formative assessments and feedback that will inform you of the grade you are working towards. We will set targets that inform you how to improve. There are no examinations or external assessments on this course.

Course Fees

Tuition fees, additional costs.

You should expect to spend about £10 per week on materials for the course. There is equipment to loan out so owning a camera is not essential, however, if you intend to pursue a career in photography you should consider buying the necessary equipment.

If you are 18 or above entering this course you will incur fees if you apply for progression entry on the second year of the programme in 2022/23. Please see our guidance on 19+ fees on our website

Material Fees

Please read our course disclaimer

Learn more about fees

Course and Career progression

The course equips students to enter the creative industries at a junior level. There will also be an element of simulated work experience through live projects, photography industry guest speakers, competitions, and industrial assignments during year two of the course. You can continue to higher education or pre-degree foundation, Higher National Certificate, Higher National Diploma, professional diploma, or degree programmes.

Although a competitive industry, there are job opportunities in the photographic/art/design world, such as being a photographer’s assistant or a freelance photographer.

What Happens Next

Apply online via the College website, or if your school uses the Positive Steps @16 (PS16) application system please apply through this and speak to your careers advisor if you are unsure. You will need details of your qualifications and employment history, a reference, and a personal statement to complete your application. Once your application has been successfully processed, you will be sent a conditional offer and be invited to a Welcome Event at the College to meet your tutors, learn more about your chosen course of study and tour the facilities. You will then need to confirm your acceptance of the course offered to you. 

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Creative media practice national diploma level 3 – p00134.

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Online Photography Classes - 31 Best Picks for Beginners

Are you just starting out with photography? Here are the 31 best online photography classes to help you build a strong foundation.

The internet has contributed to a faster flow of information, resources, and services. This is never truer than in the realm of education and learning services. Once upon a time, to learn a skill you had to seek out experts in the field to teach you, enroll in a college or university, or grab a textbook. Today, online classes and courses offered by many platforms have made the process of learning easier, more accessible, and cost-effective.

From amateurs with YouTube channels to Ivy League university programs, the number of online photography classes available grows every year. Many of these are free photography classes online, but the highest quality courses need to be purchased or viewed using a subscription service. 

Which are the best online photography classes?

The answer to that depends on your learning levels, current skill levels, and the time and money you can invest in a photography class online. Here are the top 10 best online photography classes:

1.  Beginner Photography Course Bundle from Creativelive  2.  Introductory Photography Course from Udemy  3.  Certificate in Photography from iPhotography Course 4.  Your Road to Better Photography - Free Online Photography Classes by Udemy  5.  Portrait Photography Bootcamp from Creativelive  6. 365 Photography Course from PhotographyCourse.net 7.  A Crash Course in Photographic Composition from Skillshare  8.  The Essential Guide to Photoshop from Craftsy 9.  The Complete Guide to Photography from The School of Photography 10. DSLR Photography-Photography Course from Skillshare

Which are the best photography classes near me? This question has been made irrelevant by the vast selection of photography classes online that have circumvented the need to find learning opportunities near your location. You now have access to a plethora of quality content from around the world at your fingertips. The best online photography courses require a lot of time and knowledge to put together, and when done well, they can be just as useful as doing an apprenticeship or taking up photography classes near you. 

We have curated a list of the most popular online photography courses, that cover multiple areas and skill levels, to make you a better photographer. Here is an list of  top photography website templates  for your use. 

Here are the Best 31 Online Photography Classes:

1.  beginner photography course bundle from creativelive.

A great offering on Creativelive's course platform is the four-course bundle for beginner photographers. These four courses, when taken together, cover everything from basic camera settings, composition, lighting, and digital post-processing. The Fundamentals of Photography is a learner-centred online photography class that encompasses 107 video lessons and is a great introduction to the basics of photography.

The following online photography courses are included in the bundle but are also available separately.

• Fundamentals of Photography by John Greengo

• Understanding Light by Mark Wallace

• Adobe Lightroom: The Complete Guide by Ben Willmore

• Practical Adobe Photoshop Basics by Khara Plicanic

2.  Introductory Photography Course from Udemy

This hour and a half long video-based online photography class from Udemy offers a lot of value to shutterbugs who are at the start of their photography career. The course covers camera basics including controlling autofocus modes, exposure and metering modes, and the depth of field. The course goes beyond camera settings and introduces compositional concepts like the rule of thirds and leading lines.

The introductory online Digital Photography Course is just one of the online photo classes offered by Udemy. Many courses on the site cost around $10, but they offer a money-back satisfaction guarantee. Many of the online photography courses are about five hours long, but several masterclasses cover over 20 hours of material. Topics range from how-to guides like "Mastering Off-Camera Flash" to specialized niche topics like "Newborn Photography Secrets."

3. Certificate in Photography from iPhotography Course

iPhotography offers a wide range of online photography courses and editing courses that are designed for beginner and amateur photographers.

Its popular flagship course, iPhotography Course, is an in-depth 18-module course covering all the essentials of photography from the basics like camera settings, equipment, light, through to advanced posing, composition, camera tricks and editing in Photoshop.

Each course comes with a Certificate of Achievement, practical tutor-assessed assignments and access to an active community which includes photo contests and a photo feedback gallery that receives over 3,000 uploads a month. Students can upload their photos and receive feedback and ratings from tutors and fellow students.

iPhotography also offers a free photography course called The 30-Day Photographer which delivers a new class each day for 30 days. Each class takes less than 60-seconds to complete and teaches the basic principles of photography.

4.  Your Road to Better Photography - Free Online Photography Classes by Udemy

This free online photography class offered by Udemy, encourages students to get out of the automatic camera modes they've been experimenting with and explore the world of manual control. By teaching you to master the exposure triangle for aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, you can enjoy complete creative freedom with whatever type of camera you pick up 

5. Portrait Photography Bootcamp from Creativelive

If you are looking for a more hands-on, specific course for portraiture then look no further. Lindsay Adler's course is a well-thought-out lesson that covers all of the essentials of shooting portraits and is an excellent reference for all photographers. From the basics like camera settings, lighting, and lens selections, to advanced posing techniques for individuals and groups, this course covers it all. Creativelive offers quite a few specialized online digital photography classes in photography, as well as a few general beginner's courses for aspiring photographers. No matter what topic you are interested in or what skill you need to master, Creativelive has a specialty course for you.

6.  365 Photography Course from PhotographyCourse.net

If you’re looking to make a commitment to your photography abilities and learn a little every day, this course is the right fit for you. The daily bite-size lessons are taught by award-winning photographer Kevin LJ, who has been an industry leader for over 30 years and is a master teacher himself for close to a decade. The course guarantees a solid understanding of how to use your camera in every lighting scenario imaginable. What sets this course apart from others is the one bite-sized lesson you receive every day along with a practical challenge to test what you learned.

365 Days of Photography will help you:

• Gain a solid knowledge of your camera
• Develop your camera-operating speed and accuracy
• Understand different types of light
• Compose your photographs confidently
• Identify the best time to take your photos
• Learn to work in any situation; with the use of natural lighting or flash

7.  A Crash Course in Photographic Composition from Skillshare

Another great photography course online offered by Skillshare focused entirely on composition. In over two hours of videos and materials, the course covers all aspects of composition, geometry, and lines.

8. The Essential Guide to Photoshop from Craftsy

Among the many online digital photography classes offered on Craftsy, this Photoshop essentials course is a gem. No list of online photography courses would be complete without at least one Photoshop course. Even if you don't personally use the program, chances are you will use it to address the skills and attributes at a job or at some point in your photography career. Other photo editing software programs that you might use have undoubtedly been designed to look and feel like Photoshop , so learning Photoshop has become a de facto requirement for being a digital photographer.

This course, presented by Skott Chandler, consists of 14 video sections and covers basics like using Bridge and Camera RAW to organize files and import camera RAW files. Retouching is divided logically by the type of photograph you are working with, be it portraits, landscapes, or vintage photo restorations.

9.  The Complete Guide to Photography from The School of Photography

The team at The School of Photography has been teaching since 2002 and the extensive experience shines through in their courses. Their flagship photography course focuses on teaching you the technical aspects from the ground up. This in turn will give you full control over your camera and the visual effects of photography that all good photographers need. They also offer courses in Photoshop, Lightroom, studio lighting, and other specific genres of photography. This is your go-to place if you are looking to learn professional photography from expert academics.

10.  DSLR Photography - Photography Course from Skillshare

Skillshare is a diverse community of online video courses. The site offers many free online photography courses to try out, but a reasonable monthly subscription fee gets you access to over 24,000 classes. The site provides a one-month free trial, so you can probably even complete one or two of the best online photography courses it offers for free.

The DSLR Photography course consists of 11 chapters of videos that cover using your camera for everything from street photography to portraits. Even the free online photography classes like this one on Skillshare have a lot to offer. Additionally, there are several introductions to photography courses, as well as several Photoshop and Lightroom tutorials. Classes include projects which you can share and compare with others in the Skillshare community.

Each lesson takes less than 5 minutes to complete, with an aim to make learning part of your daily photography journey.

11.  Photography Basics and Beyond from Coursera

Coursera is a leading online platform provider for MOOCs, or massive open online courses. Many of the MOOCs offered on the site are provided by accredited universities and colleges. The photography specialization is available from Michigan State University. This is a seven-month program with flexible deadlines and scheduling to meet your needs. Upon completion of the program and the hands-on projects, you earn a certificate in photography, which is excellent for your resume and employment options. As a freelance photographer , certifications help bolster your marketability and credibility with clients.  Here is the guide for  how to build a resume website .

The following five courses are included in the Photography Basics and Beyond specialization.

• Cameras, Exposure, and Photography

• Camera Control

• Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production

• Photography Techniques: Light, Content, and Sharing

• Photography Capstone Project

12.  Professional Diploma in Photography from Shaw Academy

One of Shaw Academy's stated goals is to "reskill and upskill the world." Their professional diploma programs are accredited by the European Qualifications Framework. Their courses and programs vary from photography and video to design, marketing, and even health and wellness. 

Here are a few popular professional online photography courses:

The Wedding Photography course will teach you professional techniques and in-depth skills to ace wedding portraits. 

The Professional Online Video Production and Cinematography Course offers basic skills to create videos, understand compositional techniques and movement, syncing the audio with video, and shooting fully manual to have complete creative control over your videos and to become a professional cinematographer .

Specifically, their Diploma in Photography consists of five modules, each taking four weeks of study time. The first module alone includes many of the basics skills photographers might be looking to master, including composition, lighting, and equipment basics. The first seven days of membership with Shaw is free, and then each month is billed as a membership.

Once you have mastered the Basics in the Diploma Course, you can go on to Intermediate and Advanced courses in Photography, to learn about types of photography and hone your skills to create stunning images. Shaw Academy also offers Online Courses on Lightroom, Photoshop, Smartphone photography. Read more in detail here .

13.   Beginner Digital Photography - Online Photography Classes by Alison

Alison  is an Irish-based web learning company that offers diploma and certificate courses online. Their online classes are free and wide-ranging. From learning a foreign language to master web design, Alison has great courses available to be taken anytime. Alison offers a photographer career path that includes 16 different photography classes.

Alison offers several free online photography courses with certificates, including a diploma program for digital photography. Beginners can try out their course offerings by taking Digital Photography for Beginners course. This online photography class covers basic image composition, using and picking digital cameras, and other great tips to help you get off on the right foot.

14.  Beginner Photography Courses from Sleeklens

Sleeklens is a Danish-based company with a well-known reputation in Lightroom Presets & Brushes. Since 2018 they have extended their product range to list online photography courses.

Discover the "Beginner Photography Course" by Sleeklens, covering a broad range of topics relevant to photographers today,

This is an 8-hour course split into eight different modules, covering from gear basics to composition, working with external flashes, photo editing in both Lightroom and Photoshop – and if all that weren’t enough, offering detailed guides on Landscape, Portrait, Real Estate, Food, and Travel Photography. Here is a top real estate photography tips from the industry.

The course is authored by Jordan Younce, a professional Real Estate Photographer with more than ten years of experience in the field.

15.  The Practicing Photographer from Lynda

Lynda is the professional training website from business social media giant Linkedin. Lynda's courses feature high-quality video training of any number of topics to help you build marketable skills and expand your knowledge base. These are some of the best online photography courses out there, but they do come with a price tag. Luckily, Lynda offers a free month to try out their courses so you can see if it's a good fit for you before beginning a subscription.

The Practicing Photographer is a quick 30 minutes web course designed to give students a feel for what it's like being a working photographer. This overview course quickly dives into different styles of cameras, lighting techniques, and post-processing programs. For a quick session, it covers a lot of ground.

If you are interested in getting more in-depth information, Lynda offers learning paths specifically tailored to photography. Their photography lessons online feature hands-on projects and learning assessments to ensure mastery of the material. What's more, their photography section includes over 600 courses and more than 25,000 video tutorials.

16.  Beginners Start Here from Kelbyone

Kelbyone, the website started by a professional photographer and author Scott Kelby, is full of the best online photography classes. Fifteen courses are available if you sign up for a free membership, the rest of the 1,000 plus video catalog requires a paid Plus or Pro membership. Industry-leading photographers and expert academics teach classes, so there are probably a few instructors whose names you'll recognize.

Kelby's own "Beginners Start Here" course covers the basics of photography, and several other free courses cover topics of interest to aspiring photographers. You will find classes that include every aspect of photography, from lighting and composition to business techniques and equipment reviews.

Check out the site for  free weekly webinars  and some popular webcasts on photography, plus discounts on memberships.

17.  Ditch Auto - Start Shooting in Manual from Jerad Hill’s Courses

Jerad Hill is a wedding photographer and website designer with an eye for the business of making money online from photography. In this well-designed yet free photography class course, you'll learn the basics of camera settings and all that you need to master the exposure triangle and light. Jerad Hill's website also includes other courses, some paid and some free. Many courses cover topics like using Foursquare or Instagram to promote your business, which is extremely handy for photographers looking to start their own companies.

18.  Reddit Photo Class by Alex Buisse

Designed initially for Reddit, lifestyle photographer Alex Buisse put together this immensely popular class on his website. The text-based course takes the student through thirty lessons, from "What is a Camera" to "Sharing your Work" and "How to Go Further." The course is easy to follow and covers all the essential basics, plus some professional-level insights into RAW files and using tools like the histogram function in your camera. Each lesson includes an assignment to hone your skills. Alex's stunning photos help illustrate points. Best of all, the site isn't bogged down by advertising or sales gimmicks.

19.  Photography Courses by David

David Molnar is a celebrity and advertising photographer whose clients include Google, Pepsi, & Sony among many others. David is now focusing on sharing his knowledge with others by being a photography mentor and creating world-class photo education, inspiration & resources. David's photography courses are structured for beginners and span the entire spectrum of learning photography from mastering your camera, understanding lighting, and composition and learning how to edit and organize like a pro.

20.  Masters of Photography

 Masters of photography brings you some of the best online photography classes created by the most celebrated photographers in the world. They currently have courses by three photographers, namely Steve McCurry, Joel Meyerowitz, and Albert Watson wherein you get lifetime access to hours of content. Once you have finished the course from them, you will also get a personalized certificate.  

21.   Basics of Digital Photography from Craftsy

Craftsy is a website dedicated to educating craft makers and artists using quality video lessons. Topics on the site are wide-ranging: from knitting and cooking to gardening and photography.

The Basics of Digital Photography course was created in collaboration with the Santa Fe Photographic Workshop and features nine HD video photography classes given by instructor Rick Allred. Topics included in this online digital photography course cover light and exposure, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, lenses, and composition and creativity.

22. The Elements of Effective Photographs from Lynda

Another photography course from Lynda's extensive catalog, The Elements of Effective Photographs covers more of the creative side of the art. This course is taught by Natalie Fobes, a National Geographic photographer. It covers topics like composition, leading lines, and exposure. The course also highlights the use and control of light, whether in the studio or outdoors. This focus on compositional elements, using movement to capture the emotion, and proper lighting will be refreshing if you're getting bogged down in the technical side of camera settings and equipment.

23. School of Visual Arts Photography Lectures

The School of Visual Arts has created a YouTube playlist that serves as a free photography class for beginners. It contains more than 100 lectures related to photography and is presented by their Masters in Photographic Studies program. This free online photography course is called i3: Images, Ideas, Inspiration, and includes lectures by experienced photographers in various fields like fashion photography, documentary photography, etc. 

24. Continuing Education in Photography from the School of Visual Arts

There are two online photography classes provided by Continuing Education.

Creative Seeing: This paid course focuses on the creative vision of the photographer and aims to expand it. The course includes photography exercises as well as those which focuses on seeing. Photographers in their early stage and those who want to improve their perspective of how they see the world can enrol in this course. 

Queering the Portrait: The course will teach portrait photography that is far from average. It also includes subjects such as lighting, direction, and location choosing. Weekly and long projects will be assigned to you, and feedback will be given for it. 

25. Annie Leibovitz MasterClass

Annie Leibovitz's world-famous photographer known for photographing people such as John Lenon. Her iconic photographs appeared in magazines such as Vanity Fair and Rolling Stones. She believes in telling stories through photography. Her years of experience are taught through this MasterClass that allows students to get an online peek into her studio and live shoots. This online portrait photography class contains fifteen video lessons.

26. Jimmy Chin adventure photography MasterClass

If you are into adventure photography, then this online photography course is for you. Jimmy Chin is well known in the world of adventure. He is a National Geographic photographer who teaches how to plan, capture and edits the adventure photographs taken by you. Whether it is for a commercial shoot, editorial projects, or your passion, Jimmy teaches you to take your photography to a new level. 

27.  Seeing Through Photographs

As the name suggests, this free online photography course wants the learner to understand the photograph, not just look at it. When a photo is made, there are different ideas and approaches, which the course will help you understand. The course provided by the Museum of Modern Art also aims to help you understand the different ways a photograph is seen and used, whether as a way of documentation or as a way of artistic expression. It is one of the best free online photography courses that can be done in 16 hours and is suggested to be divided into six weeks. 

28. New York Institute of Photography

The New York Institute of Photography (NYIP) offers professional photography courses. These courses are taught by illustrious photographers, who will mentor students throughout the comprehensive program, course study, and assignments and help them improve their skills and take better photographs. They have a special limited-time offer on the photography courses listed here . 

Do check out these online photography courses, that are aimed at inspiring photographers to improve their creative skills. We had put together an article listing 25+ Creative Photography ideas and techniques to try in 2021. Some of these courses are available for free throughout the month of April. With stay-at-home and lock-down orders going up all over the world, you can also use the time to learn something small that will be of value to you later. It is a perfect time to use your camera in a new way! For more ideas, do read our list of  10 Things for Photographers to do while in Covid-19 Lockdown .

29. Nikon School - Online

Designed to inspire creators, these courses will help you journey from the fundamentals of photography, to intricacies of portraiture, child and pet photography ,  macro photography, to exploring dynamic landscape photography and the art of making videos. The classes are available through live video streaming on Nikon’s official handles of Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. These in-depth videos offer great tips and techniques to help you take your photography game to another level!

30. Free Online Photography Classes by Creativelive

Besides the above-mentioned classes, Creativelive is offering Free Photography Classes for the creative community. So if you are looking at mastering key photography skills or glean industry insight from experts, there are lots to learn for every skill level.

31. Free Online Photography Courses by Leica 

Leica Akademie is offering free courses and talks for photographers. Their series of free Instagram live discussions will be led by renowned photographers, musicians, actors, and other creative professionals.

32. Home with Olympus Sessions

Home with Olympus sessions is designed to connect users with Olympus technical experts. You can either sign up for a one-on-one session or participate in a group session to get to know about Olympus cameras or talk about specific photography genres and gain insights from industry experts.

Conclusion 

The above-listed photography classes for beginners aren't the only online photography courses out there, but they will provide a great foundation for your photography knowledge base. Photography is a varied field with many specializations and areas where we can all learn more. Thankfully, online learning has empowered us all to keep learning and to keep improving our skills. What skill do you want to learn next?

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start learning photography? The easiest way to start learning photography is to find “the best photography course for you.”  If you are really struggling to find the best course, we have curated a list of “Top 31 Photography Courses” to help you get started.  

Which online photography course is the best? If you are new to photography one can start with courses such as “Beginner Photography Course Bundle from CreativeLive”. On the other hand, if you want to learn something niche in photography, refer to courses such as “Portrait Photography Bootcamp from CreativeLive.” 

How do photographers make money? The digital world made it easier for photographers to generate multiple revenue streams and make a huge sum of money. Photographers make money by selling stock photos and prints, organizing workshops and tours, collaborating on different projects, editing, and retouching photos, etc.

Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

Click Here For More City Street Guides!

(A New Guide Posted Every Other Wednesday)

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Russia Photography Classes and Photography Workshops

Photography school ‘obraz’.

Photography school Obraz offers one of the widest varieties of in-depth workshops and tutorials in all of Russia, featuring courses on the camera itself, lenses, the shooting of photography, and lighting. Also presented are workshops covering the various themes of photography, including portraits, still life, landscape, media photography, travel, and many, many, more. The school also provides a number of options time-wise depending on the course, with some available on selected weekdays, and others on weekends, including the two-week “Psychology of Portraits” for the more advanced photographer. A unique, and certainly appealing program at Obraz school, is the two-hour Master Class on “Acquaintance with the Camera,” held during weekends and most importantly, FREE. That’s most certainly a rarity in the Academic world, one that any level of photographer would surely not want to miss out on, especially those traveling through Moscow for a shorter period of time. Located less than two miles from Moscow’s city center, Obraz is a must-do for anyone interested in taking their photography skills to the next level.

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