Topic Ideation and Selection

Choose a suitable theme

Select a topic that is achievable, personally engaging, and has creative scope. Avoid topics that restrict creativity or are unsuitable. For example, topics that are: overly sensitive, inappropriate for your age group, illegal, harmful to your wellbeing or to others, or work you would not be entirely comfortable having assessed and being seen by your teachers or family members.

Assess the mark potential of your chosen theme

Ask yourself:

1. Can I produce a varied and creative set of 8 final images?
2. Does the topic give scope for technical and creative development?
3. Will it allow me to research relevant photographers and their influences?

Examples of strong themes

• Identity
• Movement
• Urban decay
• Safetytill life with symbolism
• Environmental issues

Extra Thoughts

1. The selection of your project topic is a critical first step, and the SQA emphasizes its suitability and achievability.
2. When collaborating with your teacher or lecturer on topic selection, ensure it covers the following considerations from the SQA:
   • Achievability: The topic should be realistic given your skill level, available equipment, and resources. Some genres (e.g., sports photography) might require specific equipment not always accessible. Some topics may be impractical due to seasonal timing (e.g., representing four seasons).
   • Scope for Exploration: The topic needs to be broad enough to allow for creative exploration and experimentation, enabling you to demonstrate a range of techniques and avoid repetition. However, it should not be so broad that it loses coherence. Focused examples like “pattern in nature” or “botanical forms” are more effective than simply “nature”.
   • Relevance to Assessment: The topic should provide clear opportunities to demonstrate all assessed skills, including:
     • Producing a varied and creative set of eight final images.
     • Showing technical and creative development throughout your work.
     • Allowing for research into relevant photographers and their influences.
   • Appropriateness: Avoid sensitive, inappropriate, illegal, or harmful topics. This includes themes that might raise legality, welfare, or child protection issues. Teachers and lecturers have a key role in guiding you in these early stages.
   • Health and Safety: Consider any health and safety issues associated with your chosen topic, especially if it involves specific locations or approaches. Conducting a risk assessment is good practice.
   • Legal and Societal Issues: Be aware of potential problems when photographing in specific places or subjects, including permissions and copyright.
3. Remember that genres are not topics. For example, “portraiture” is a genre, but “my family,” “friendship,” or “identity” could be suitable topics within that genre. Open-ended topics like “protection” or “ageing” can offer rich interpretative scope.