Photography Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2023

Question 1:
(a)        What is photography? 
(b)        State any three functions of photography.
(c)        Explain any two of the following branches of photography:
(i)         forensic;
(ii)        portraiture;
(iii)       events.

The question was very clear, precise and was well attempted. The performance of the candidates was fair. Candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question: 

  • Definition of Photography

-           Photography is the art of producing images through the action of light on
film/sensor.
-           Photography is derived from two Greek words - phos (light) and graphe (to
draw or write).
-           Photography is the art of writing or drawing with light.

  • The art & science of recording permanent images on a light sensitive material using a camera.

        

  • Functions of Photography
  • Visual communication/for news reporting (Photojournalism).
  • Recording/documentationofevents/keepingmemories.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
  • Advertising of products and services.
  • Crime investigation.
  • Teaching and learning aids.
  • Promotes educational research/advancement.
  • Preservation of culture.
  • Aesthetics/beautification/decorative.
  • Expressing ideas/self-expression.
  • Recreational/entertainment.


(c)        Explanation of the following branches of Photography
(i)         Forensic
-           Involves photographs taken at crime scenes.
-           Used for crime investigations.
-           Serves as evidence or exhibits in the court of law.
-           Serious editing in terms of image alteration not allowed.

(ii)        Portraiture
-           Posed pictures of people and animals.
-           The subjects of the photograph could be individuals or groups.
            -           It helps to study individual personalities and mood.
            -           It is used for historical documentation.

(iii)      Events
-           It deals with recording of social activities like weddings, birthdays, graduation and chieftaincy ceremonies.
-           It is used for the documentation of social-cultural activities.
-           It is easy to practice as it does not require heavy set up.
-           Its documentation serves as historical references.
-           It provides immediate source of income for youths with cameras.