Photography GCSE
The GCSE Photography course provides an exciting opportunity for students to explore their creativity and develop technical expertise in photography. By combining hands-on traditional techniques such as sunprints and photograms with modern digital photographic skills, this course fosters artistic expression and nurtures practical skills. Students will also engage in location-based shoots, including class photoshoot trips to Brighton Seafront and in and around the North Laine, to capture dynamic imagery that showcases their personal perspective. The course encourages personal exploration and culminates in a portfolio showcasing their individual creativity.
Course highlights:
- Traditional Techniques: Experiment with creating sunprints and photograms in the darkroom, exploring light, shadow, and composition in their purest forms.
- Digital Photography: Learn to operate DSLR cameras, part take in a studio shoot and edit images using industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop.
- Composition and Visual Elements: Understand framing, light, color, texture, and form to craft compelling photographs.
- Creative Development: Explore diverse photographic styles, including landscapes, portraiture, abstract and experimental photography.
- Artistic Contexts: Study influential photographers and movements to inform your work and inspire creative decisions.
- Portfolio Building: Develop a cohesive body of work, integrating both traditional and digital techniques.
Assessment:
- Component 1: Portfolio (60%)
A personal project showcasing experimentation, research, and final images. This will include work with sunprints, photograms, and sets of finals based upon two unique digital photographic projects. - Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)
Respond to a theme provided by AQA, culminating in a final project completed under 10 hour supervised exam conditions.
Why Choose This Course?
This course is ideal for creative and curious students who enjoy both hands-on experimentation and digital innovation in an enjoyable and nurturing environment. It provides an ideal foundation for further studies in art, photography, or media and opens doors to careers in the creative industries. This course has been instrumental in students successfully progressing to Level 3 Courses within Varndean College over the years.
Course Essentials
Courses Available
GCSE Photography
PLUS
OR
Assessment
60% coursework, 40% externally set assignment
Enquiries To
Dipak Gohil: dig@varndean.ac.uk
Staff Profiles
Dipak Gohil
Dipak Gohil, Programme Leader for Year 1 A level and GCSE Photography, boasts an extensive industry background, including having worked for many years as a freelance portrait photographer for the BBC. A Photography graduate of Westminster University, his artistic practice specialises in poetic Indian street imagery. His work has been recognised with a prestigious shortlist for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. For over 15 years, Dipak has dedicated himself to inspiring and nurturing aspiring photographers at Varndean College.
Richard Gaskill
Student Success
Eddy Jabor
Eddy Jabor is a current Level 3 student who gained a grade 9 in the 2024 GCSE Photography Exam at Varndean College.
He said, “My proudest moment was realising the excellence of my achievements. Seeing the progression and amount of my work showed me that every effort was worth it. It was a moment of deep satisfaction, acknowledging the growth and dedication that defined my experience.”
“The course has been fundamental in shaping my future creative and academic pursuits. It has enhanced my creative expression, sharpened my research skills, and taught me the detail of page mounting, teamwork, and editing techniques. These experiences have been crucial in preparing me for a Level 3 Art and Design course, providing a solid foundation for exploration and growth in the arts”
