This document provides advice on how to analyze and write about a photograph for an A-level Photography class. It recommends focusing on how the visual qualities of the photograph help express its purpose. Students should consider how composition, shapes, colors, textures, and tones contribute to the intention and meaning. When writing about a photo, the summary should include: the title, subject matter, visual qualities, the photographer's intention, and historical/cultural context.

1. City College Norwich A level Photography
Advice on how to write about a photograph
Use this sheet as a guide when investigating photographs and writing your response
to them. It is not intended to be the only possible way or to be followed too slavishly.
Concentrate on how the visual qualities of the picture help to express its purpose.
Ask yourself how the composition of shapes , colours, textures, tones etc. contribute
to the intention and meaning of the photograph. Try not to use too many vague and
‘gushing’ phrases such as ‘I just love this picture, I think the colour is great’.
1. TitleWrite down the title of the work , the name of the photographer and the
date that it was made.
2. First impression / Content. What first strikes you about the picture; what
gives it its impact? What is the content and subject matter of the picture. Do
you like it and if so why?
3. Visual qualities. How has the photographer used the ‘formal qualities’ of
picture- making to express their idea? In other words how is the composition of
light, colour, shape, scale, tones of light and dark, texture, depth of field and
focus used to make the point of the picture?
4. Intention. What do you think the photographer was trying to show or ‘say’ by
making the image? How can you back up your point? How well do you think he
or she succeeded and why?
5. Context. Research the image and the photographer who made it and try to
establish the ‘context’ or ‘bigger picture’ for the image. How does it fit into your
knowledge of similar ideas by other photographers and artists? For instance if
you are looking at a portrait ask yourself what ideas have influenced the
portrait and who were the influential creators of those ideas? To what extent
you are looking at a snapshot or a more carefully composed image? How does
the picture relate to the conventions of similar pictures? How does it relate to
society at the time it was made? Have ideas changes since?
This is perhaps the hardest areas to write about because it requires you to read
further and find out about ideas in photography and culture generally – but it is
potentially the most rewarding aspect to consider and gains the most marks for A
level.
6. Response. What ideas has the picture given you for your own photographs;
how could you respond in a practical way?