L2 Photography

NCEA Level 2 Photography (2PHO)

Journey and Transformation - an introduction to contemporary photography practice

Level 2 Photography is a camera-based Visual Arts course designed for students to deepen their skills in digital photography as a form of artistic expression. The overarching theme for Level 2 Photography is Journey and Transformation, where students will explore still life, architecture and landscape photography. This course focuses on developing technical abilities with Digital SLR cameras, studio lighting, and editing softwear from the Adobe Creative Suite, including; Lightroom, Photoshop, and InDesign. Students research established photographic practices to inspire the planning and execution of photoshoots that experiment with composition, lighting, and viewpoint. Throughout the course, students document their creative process by refining, editing, and sequencing images to communicate clear and considered ideas as cohesive series of work. Their visual diaries support assessment for internal standards and complement practical investigations for the external folio. This course leads to Level 3 Photography and compliments many pathways within the Creative Industries and Fine Arts.

Curriculum Skills and Key Competencies

Thinking: 

• Students extend their critical and creative thinking by investigating the processes, conventions, and practices of established photographers. They evaluate how these influence meaning and intention in photographic work and apply this understanding to refine, extend, and regenerate their own practice. Through this, students develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, conceptual thinking, visual literacy, and adaptability across different contexts.

Using language, symbols and texts: 

• Students research and interpret the meaning and intention behind the work of established photographers and their own photographic projects. They develop visual literacy to express complex ideas and communicate meaning effectively through images. Throughout their creative process, students independently reflect on and evaluate their artistic decisions, refining their work to strengthen both concept and technical execution. These skills enhance critical thinking, visual communication, and effective self-expression.

Managing Self: 

• Students build self-management skills by planning and completing photoshoots, workbook tasks, and portfolio submissions within set checkpoints and deadlines. They demonstrate resilience by overcoming creative challenges and adapting their approaches when needed. Students take initiative by researching sophisticated themes, photographers, and techniques, actively seeking and responding to feedback to deepen the meaning and quality of their photographic work.

Relating to others: 

• Students are encouraged to explore diverse cultural contexts, identities, and perspectives, considering how photography can challenge social norms and promote social justice. They develop an understanding of visual arts as a tool for cultural dialogue and social commentary. Through collaborative critique and contextual research, students learn to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with others in the arts community, gaining insight into how their artistic choices affect different audiences and communities.

Participating and contributing:

• Students engage in analysis and constructive feedback, learning to give and receive responses respectfully and supportively. They articulate reflections on diverse perspectives that enrich their own and their peers’ photographic practice. This fosters a collaborative community where ideas are shared and refined, preparing students to participate meaningfully in professional conversations.

Careers and Pathways

Year 12 Photography leads onto the Level 3 specialist Visual Arts Courses: Design, Photography, Painting and Printmaking, which are all UE approved subjects.

This subject is suited for students interested in careers or industries such as:

• Photographer or Film maker: media and television industry
• Communications: Advertising, Content creation, journalism
• Film or Television Back of house Design; Costume, stage and set, lighting, sound, fashion, makeup
• Designer: Graphic designer, animation, digital designer (web & other media), product designer, illustrator, computer gaming, CGI
• Interior or Architectural Design: Exterior, Spatial, Interior design
• Primary, Secondary or Tertiary Teaching
• Curator / Exhibition manager / Events coordinator / Arts business manager / Arts leader