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AIM Assessment

Photographic Assistant EPA

The Photographic Assistant EPA is the end-point assessment for this level 3 standard.

The Photographic Assistant role involves carrying out skilled work in the photographic industry utilising common photographic knowledge and skills. The knowledge and skills can equally be applied to whatever means and methods are used in the workplace to generate, print or publish a photographic image. Whilst the majority of photographic imagery is produced digitally, the use of photographic film and silver-based prints are still used in specialist businesses.

This standard has optional pathways – Assistant Photographer and Photographic Technician.

The duration of the Photographic Assistant apprenticeship is typically 18 months.

Role options

Option 1: An Assistant Photographer generates the original imagery and is employed across a wide range of areas, for example: social, commercial, government, scientific departments and specialist applications. They can work in indoor studios as well as outside locations using digital or film cameras; producing stills or video imagery for a wide range of uses.

Option 2: A Photographic Technician will typically work in a commercial photo finishing business, high street minilab or in-house processing centre. Their work involves producing prints from customer supplied digital imagery. Some staff working in specialist areas will be responsible for processing and printing imagery from photographic films using non-digital equipment.

Gateway requirements

  • Completion of a portfolio
  • Level 2 English and Maths

Assessment Methods:

  • Knowledge test:  A one hour multiple choice knowledge test covering the mandatory elements across both Options for this Standard. Passing this test is a requirement before the apprentice can proceed to the rest of the End-Point Assessment.
  • Workplace Observation: A two hour workplace observation of the apprentice undertaking naturally occurring activity relating to the option ie taking photographs or printing photographic content, manipulating these assets and then storing the completed content correctly.
  • Professional discussion: A one hour discussion with our assessor covering the apprentice’s achievements, the standard of their work, their approach and is supported by their portfolio of evidence.

Indicative duration of assessment

The three assessments will usually be completed within 3 months of gateway (subject to availability of facilities and assessor).

More information

Find out more on the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education website

We are members of the Association of Apprentices which unlocks access to a host of free resources and peer support aimed at helping apprentices maximise their apprenticeship.

If you would like to speak to our team about AIM end-point assessment services, please email assessment@aimgroup.org.uk.