Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91322 about?

Accepted Answer

This standard asks you to create a coherent collection of photography works across two large panels that shows you understand how photography as an art form works and the conventions photographers use. Your work should demonstrate that you've made thoughtful choices about what to photograph, how to take the photos, and what techniques to apply—showing a clear visual idea or theme connecting the pieces together.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91322?

Accepted Answer

1. Select and refine a visual theme or concept that connects your photographs together across both panels 2. Photograph original subjects or places authentically (not using found or AI-generated images as starting points) 3. Show you understand photography conventions by making intentional decisions about composition, framing, light, and camera techniques 4. Engage in post-production work where appropriate and show evidence of a cycle: making photos, reflecting on them, then making new decisions based on your reflections 5. Present your work with clear evidence of how ideas developed and changed, demonstrating editing and curation of your strongest pieces

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91322?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You select photography works that connect to a recognisable theme and show basic understanding of how photography conventions (like composition and framing) work, with deliberate choices evident in what you've photographed. Merit: You show purposeful decision-making throughout, with technical proficiency in your photography; your work demonstrates a cycle of making, reviewing your shots, and using that reflection to guide new directions, with logical progression across the two panels. Excellence: You demonstrate sophisticated control of photography conventions with polished, technically accomplished images; you create clear space between phases of work to make informed decisions about new directions; strong initial themes allow you to extract and explore complex imagery through well-executed photographs that show originality and sustained development.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91322?

Accepted Answer

1. Relying too heavily on the camera's recording capabilities and visual effects rather than exploring post-production techniques (editing, printing, darkroom methods) to develop your ideas further 2. Not spending enough time on project planning and workload management—trying to fill two large panels without sufficient development or depth in individual works 3. Using found images or AI-generated content as the basis for your photography work, which reduces authentic learning and your ability to demonstrate genuine understanding of photographic practice

Photography body of work

Your assessment resources

Related standards

Videos & study resources

More in this subject

Other Visual Arts standards · Level 2 · Year 12

Next year — Visual Arts Level 3 · Year 13

Foundations — Visual Arts Level 1 · Year 11