demonstrate knowledge of different types and genres of photography and/or animation

Cambridge IGCSE Art & Design 0400 – Photography & Animation

Learning Objective

Demonstrate knowledge of the different types and genres of photography and/or animation, and understand how they can be used creatively and ethically in artistic projects.

Syllabus‑Driven Structure

The notes are organised to mirror the IGCSE Art & Design specification. Each section shows where the required content is addressed, making it easy for teachers and learners to see the links to the syllabus.

• Knowledge & Understanding – Types, genres, camera‑less processes, animation forms.
• Skills & Techniques – Composition, lighting, exposure, camera technology, post‑production.
• Research & Recording – Systematic visual research, annotation, reflective notebooks.
• Practical Activities – A suggested sequence that covers research, experimentation, creation and evaluation.
• Assessment Criteria – Key points that examiners will look for.

Knowledge & Understanding

1. Types of Photography

Broad categories defined by purpose, technique and typical subject matter.

2. Genres of Photography

Genres describe artistic style, intent or thematic approach. A single image can belong to several genres simultaneously.

3. Camera‑less & Alternative Photographic Processes

These methods expand the definition of photography and are part of the syllabus.

• Photograms – Images made by placing objects directly on light‑sensitive paper and exposing to light. Example: Man Ray’s “Rayographs”.
• Cyanotype – Iron‑based printing process producing characteristic blue tones. Example: Anna Atkins’ botanical cyanotypes.
• Pinhole Camera – Simple camera without a lens; light enters through a tiny aperture, creating soft‑focused images.
• Solarisation (Sabattier effect) – Partial reversal of tones during development, giving a surreal, edge‑highlighted look.
• Alternative printing media – Inkjet on fine art paper, polymer prints, gelatin silver prints, etc.

4. Animation Forms that Extend Photographic Practice

Animation adds the dimension of time and can be integrated with still photography.

• Stop‑motion – Frame‑by‑frame capture of objects, models or drawings; requires a stable camera and consistent lighting.
• Time‑lapse – Capturing images at set intervals (seconds to hours) and playing back at normal speed; ideal for showing change (clouds, construction, plant growth).
• Cinemagraph – A still image with a subtle, seamless looped motion in a selected area; created by masking in post‑production.
• GIF animation – Short, looping clips (usually ≤ 5 seconds) shared online; useful for quick visual storytelling.
• Hybrid video‑photo projects – Combine live‑action footage with still frames; often used in mixed‑media installations.
• Rotoscoping & 2‑D digital animation – Tracing over photographic sequences to create stylised animated drawings.

Skills & Techniques

• Composition & Framing – rule of thirds, leading lines, balance, negative space, framing within frames.
• Light, Exposure & Colour – natural vs. artificial light, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white‑balance, colour temperature.
• Technical Processes – camera formats (DSLR, mirrorless, compact, smartphone), lens families (wide, standard, telephoto, macro, tilt‑shift), digital vs. film workflow, RAW processing.
• Creative Intent & Visual Storytelling – sequencing, symbolism, mood, narrative arc.
• Ethical & Cultural Considerations – consent, representation, cultural sensitivity, responsible image manipulation.

Research & Recording

Effective visual research is a core part of the syllabus. Use a systematic approach to collect, organise and reflect on material before you start shooting.

• Sketch‑journals / Visual notebooks – Quick thumbnail sketches, lighting diagrams, colour palettes, and brief notes on composition ideas.
• Mood‑boards – Collages of printed or digital images that illustrate the desired style, atmosphere or colour scheme.
• Annotated image library – For each reference image record:
  • Date & source (website, book, exhibition)
  • Type / genre
  • What you find compelling (composition, technique, story)
  • Ideas for adaptation in your own work
• Research checklist (use for every session)
  • Purpose of the research (e.g., explore macro lighting)
  • Key observations (lighting direction, depth of field, colour)
  • Questions that arise
  • Next steps – experiments or shots to try

Practical Activities (Suggested Sequence)

1. Research & Presentation – Choose a photographer whose work exemplifies a specific type or genre. Deliver a 5‑minute presentation with visual examples, a brief biography, and an analysis of technique and intent.
2. Theme Exploration – Plan a series of 5‑7 photographs around a single theme (e.g., “movement”). Use at least two different types (e.g., portrait + macro). Record camera settings, lighting notes and reflections in your visual notebook.
3. Technical Experiment – Compare three aperture settings (f/2.8, f/8, f/16) on the same subject to observe depth‑of‑field effects. Present results in a side‑by‑side comparison grid.
4. Stop‑motion Mini‑Project – Create a 10‑15 second stop‑motion animation using everyday objects. Write a storyboard, capture at ≥ 12 fps, and edit with free software (e.g., Blender, Shotcut).
5. Time‑lapse Exploration – Photograph a changing scene (clouds, construction site, plant growth) at regular intervals. Assemble the sequence into a 15‑second video.
6. Critical Analysis – Select a professional photograph (print or digital). Write a 250‑word critique covering composition, lighting, genre, cultural context and the photographer’s possible message.
7. Ethical Reflection – Write a short essay (150‑200 words) discussing consent, cultural sensitivity and the impact of post‑processing on truthfulness in one of your own images.
8. Portfolio Review – Compile a mini‑portfolio (8‑10 images) that demonstrates a range of types/genres explored. Include a reflective commentary for each image linking back to the learning objective.

Assessment Criteria (Key Points)

• Knowledge and Understanding – Accurate use of photographic terminology; clear identification of type, genre and intended audience.
• Technical Competence – Correct camera settings, effective use of lighting, focus control and appropriate post‑processing.
• Creative Development – Original ideas, purposeful experimentation, effective combination of different types/genres.
• Visual Communication – Strong composition, clear narrative or concept, appropriate use of colour or black‑and‑white.
• Evaluation and Reflection – Critical self‑assessment, identification of strengths/weaknesses, concrete plans for further development.
• Ethical Awareness – Evidence of consent, cultural respect and responsible image manipulation.