Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free Level 2 Photography Course in Ashton-under-Lyne

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start17 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 2 Photography Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Clarendon Sixth Form College, part-time during the day, over one year. You'll build on existing photography skills and develop greater technical control of your images. The course covers camera controls, lighting, photographic genres, and producing more purposeful, considered work. Entry requires a Level 1 photography qualification or equivalent experience, plus GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above. This free photography course for adults fits around other commitments, with daytime sessions at a manageable pace.

Who this course is for

Build on your photography skills and take greater creative control of your images. This Level 2 qualification is ideal if youve completed a beginner course (or have equivalent experience) and want to develop stronger technical confidence, explore different photographic genres, and begin producing more considered, purposeful work.

Key areas include:

  • Using photographic equipment and camera controls with confidence (exposure, focus, white balance and lighting)
  • Developing and adapting photographic ideas from briefs and themes
  • Understanding the photo-imaging industry and how photographers work professionally
  • Exploring at least one specialist pathway such as: studio, location, documentary, commercial, darkroom or experimental processes
  • Planning, producing and presenting a body of work ready for a portfolio

Sessions are practical and workshop-based, combining demonstrations, short tasks, group critiques and independent shooting/editing time.

Entry requirements

Entry Level (Foundation)

it is recommended that learners have either:

� You are expected to have achieved GCSE Maths Grade 4/C or above; GCSE English Language at grade 4/C or above is desirable

  • Level 1 photography qualification (or equivalent experience), and/or
  • Basic digital skills and a willingness to work independently between sessions.

� If you have any support needs, please discuss these with us so we can help you succeed.

What you will learn

  • You'll use camera controls confidently, including exposure, focus, white balance, and lighting.
  • You'll explore different photographic genres and develop your creative voice.
  • You'll produce purposeful, considered images with stronger technical and artistic intent.
  • You'll develop and adapt your approach to suit different photographic contexts.
  • You'll build digital skills relevant to photography practice.
  • You'll work independently between sessions to develop your own projects.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Clarendon Sixth Form College, combining practical photography work with guided instruction. Assessment is based on a portfolio of your photographic work, demonstrating the skills and knowledge covered across the course. You'll also work independently between sessions to develop your projects and build your portfolio.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Clarendon Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start. Having access to a digital camera (not just a smartphone) is likely to be useful, though check with the centre before you enrol.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Photographer's assistant: support professional photographers on shoots
  • Freelance photographer: work across events, portraits, or commercial projects
  • Social media content creator: produce visual content for brands and businesses
  • Photo editor or retoucher: edit and process images for clients or publications
  • Photography studio assistant: support studio operations and equipment management
  • Visual merchandiser: use photography skills in retail and display work

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography: a deeper qualification for those wanting to specialise further or move toward higher education in photography or the creative arts.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (Art and Design): prepares you for a university degree in photography, fine art, or a related creative subject.
  • Level 3 Certificate in Digital Photography: focuses on digital post-production and editing skills alongside camera technique.
Apply on tameside.ac.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at Clarendon Sixth Form College

More courses near you