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Photography Level 3 - Extended Diploma

Full-Time
Level 3
OCR
Llwyn y Bryn
Two years
Telephone: 01792 284021 (Llwyn y Bryn)

Overview

This University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design (Photography) course is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of photography and supplementary art and design skills.  

During this two year course, you will study a range of photography techniques, develop skills in photography and gain a better understanding of the creative process. You will focus on your specialised area of photography including all aspects of digital design, exhibition planning and promotion.

Exciting briefs will challenge you to explore your creative boundaries and enhance your ability to articulate and communicate ideas confidently through the medium of photography.  

You will be supported by experienced teachers from the industry and have access to a huge range of photographic resources such as equipment, studios and darkrooms.  

This course will finish with your final major project which can be displayed at our end-of-year show, and throughout your time with us we encourage you to build an Art and Design (Photography) portfolio that can be used to apply for further study or a job in the arts sector.   

Course outcomes:

  • Develop a critical and contextual awareness of different perspectives and approaches within photography or related subjects of study or work
  • Identify the characteristics of camera systems and acquire the skills to produce photographs for a range of purposes
  • Learn how to research, analyse and evaluate a photographic project effectively
  • Critically review the effectiveness and appropriateness of photographic methods, actions and results
  • Understand lighting sources for photography, including light metering techniques, and confidently use various lighting setups
  • Identify the characteristics of digital imaging, printing and film processing
  • Process and produce photographic film and prints with proficiency
  • Understand photographic practice and adhere to health and safety procedures.  
  • Be able to understand, adapt and safely use appropriate and practical methods and skills for creative production
  • Solve complex problems through the application of photography or related practical theoretical and technical understanding
  • Use evaluative and reflective skills to take responsibility for your own learning development and decision making
  • Take charge of the research, planning, time management, and actions necessary to access diverse progression opportunities within the field of photography
  • Effectively present your creative ideas and artwork to diverse audiences, mastering the art of communication in the visual language of photography
  • Final major project. 

Key information

A minimum of five GCSEs grades A-C, including Art and Design

Equivalent qualifications accepted, including a Merit at Level 2 Art and Design.  

Subject to interview and portfolio of work. 

A dynamic and hands-on learning experience that places photography at the forefront of creative exploration. Our team of specialised staff deliver units as themed assignments throughout the year, designed to challenge and inspire.

Practical demonstrations take place, along with discussions, group work, individual work, presentations and exhibitions.

The work is assessed against a range of criteria which looks at diversity of research, development of ideas, exploration of media and techniques, analysis and evaluation of outcomes.

Receive continual assessment and constructive feedback throughout the course, with verbal and written evaluations from our team of photography experts.

Explore the diverse possibilities of photography with our extensive range of high-quality equipment, including advanced camera systems, lighting gear, and digital imaging tools.

Students will spend approximately 18 hours a week on the course.

Students are able to progress onto a number of higher education courses such as degree, foundation diploma or HND.

Successful students have gone on to various degree courses throughout the UK, and to also win a number of prestigious art and design (photography) competitions.

Various trips to galleries, museums and events will take place throughout the course. Where possible the College will subsidise the cost of these trips, but students will also be required to make a contribution.

Equipment: Studio fees (£75 per year) cover the following:

  • Specialist resources within the photography pathway, upkeep of specialist equipment and contributes towards essential resources
  • Students are expected to purchase their own sketchbooks and any additional equipment required for their studies
  • Printing costs: Students can buy printing credits for PCs and MACs as and when needed during the year.

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