A-level photography

I am thinking of taking photography alongside history and biology, is this a good combination? How is photography seen by universities? is it looked down upon compared to other academic subjects?

Also for people who do photography how is the course? and am i required to purchase my own camera for the course?

I don't know whether or not it's 'looked down' upon, but it can give a certain 'depth' to your personal statement, and indeed job applications, and you can make it sound like you're an all-rounder with a load of different, transferable skills and not just an academic brain...if that makes sense.

In terms of the course, it's not as easy as it sounds. There's a lot of work involved - our group was expected to do one or two photoshoots a week, plus a page of two of writing. It doesn't sound like much, because you write a lot more for other subjects, but photography is about coming up with dozens of original ideas and techniques that all flow together into one project. It's really fun though, if you're into that sort of thing. Great to do a variety of subjects at A-Level, too.

Generally, no, you don't need your own camera as most schools and colleges can provide ones to use in lessons or to loan overnight BUT please check first. I've got to say, though, having your own camera helps a lot, although I often took photoshoots for AS Level on my phone and that worked just fine, so long as I used something better for my final pieces.

Thanks, will top universities prefer academic subjects or will i be able to get in with photography?