WJEC Eduqas GCSE Art & Design: Photography specification (C656)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your WJEC Eduqas GCSE Art & Design: Photography exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official WJEC Eduqas GCSE Art & Design: Photography specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official WJEC Eduqas GCSE Art & Design: Photography (C656) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official WJEC Eduqas specification PDF.
Specification overview
The GCSE in Art & Design: Photography enables learners to explore and communicate ideas visually through lens- and light-based media. The course encourages personal creative expression using digital and/or traditional photographic techniques, with emphasis on experimentation, critical thinking, and technical skill. Students engage with the work of photographers and relevant contextual sources to inform their practice. The specification prepares learners for further study in photography or related creative fields by fostering independent learning and visual literacy.Subject content breakdown
Photography
- Defined as the artistic use of lens-based media to create static or moving imagery.
Areas of practice may include:
- Digital photography – capture, manipulation and editing using software.
- Film photography – traditional darkroom techniques and processes.
- Photographic installation – spatial presentation of photographic work.
- Photojournalism – storytelling through documentary imagery.
- Studio photography – controlled lighting setups and still life.
- Location photography – capturing subjects in external environments.
- Experimental imagery – abstract, conceptual or manipulated images.
- Moving image – sequences, video or time-based outcomes using photographic approaches.
Learners must:
- Understand key visual elements such as composition, depth, and light.
- Investigate and respond to photographers and photographic genres.
- Experiment with photographic processes and editing techniques.
- Develop and record creative ideas visually and contextually.
- Produce and present final outcomes that reflect personal intent.
Assessment structure
Component 1: Portfolio (non-exam assessment)
- Worth 60% of total qualification.
- Set and marked by the centre; externally moderated.
- Includes:
- A sustained project with in-depth development.
- A selection of additional work demonstrating breadth.
- Must show evidence of all four assessment objectives:
- AO1: Develop ideas with contextual understanding.
- AO2: Refine work through technical and creative exploration.
- AO3: Record ideas and observations.
- AO4: Present a personal and meaningful photographic response.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment
- Worth 40% of total qualification.
- Assessment paper issued in January of Year 11.
- Preparatory period followed by 10 hours of supervised work.
- Students create a final photographic outcome based on a selected theme.
- All assessment objectives are assessed holistically.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your WJEC Eduqas GCSE Art & Design: Photography isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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