My Photography Journey

The Beginning

I’d be lying if I said I always knew I wanted to be some sort of photographer when I was younger. It was actually quite the opposite — I was hoping to become an equine vet and a professional horse rider at Hartpury, my dream college/university.

But life had other plans. I came straight out of high school and landed in a music course at a local college. It wasn’t until our end-of-year performance, where we had to market the show to raise money, that I was put in charge of social media and photos. Luckily, I had a camera — a Canon 3000D — and got to use it. And honestly, I fell in love. Seeing how much everyone loved the images was a feeling I’ll never forget.

That summer, I switched colleges to study photography. Sadly, I was very ill for a long time — and then COVID hit. Around the same time, my mum and I were house-hunting, and we noticed houses down south were a lot cheaper — plus, they were right next to the sea, which was a massive bonus. So we thought, why not? We made the move, and I applied for the Arts University Plymouth’s pre-degree photography course, and later progressed onto the BA (Hons) Commercial Photography undergraduate course.

From Music Photography to Fashion Photography

When I first started photography, I fell in love with music and concert photography — and I did a lot of it! But halfway through my first year at university, I started exploring fashion photography. Since then, I’ve definitely become more of a fashion photographer.

I wasn’t a very confident photographer at the start. Camera settings and lighting completely confused me, and I knew I couldn’t let that be the reason I gave up. It took a while, but now I can pretty much tell you what settings I need for any photoshoot — whether it’s on location or in the studio. (I still have my moments where I forget what ISO is… but I’m sure we all do, right?)

Since starting my journey within fashion photography, I’ve really found my passion for the industry. Alongside photography, I also discovered a love for group work — especially being a project manager and creative director. It made me realise that this is what I hope to do in the future: to work within a creative team, helping to create amazing images for social media, magazines, and websites.

That doesn’t mean I’m giving up fashion photography! It just means I’ll be stepping slightly more into the behind-the-scenes side — helping find the right photographers, stylists, and creatives for different shoots. Being a photographer has taught me a lot. You’re not just a photographer — you’re also an editor, social media manager, creative director, stylist, lighting expert… basically, you wear all the hats. Hats off to all the freelance photographers who do it all themselves, because after three years of university, I’m honestly looking forward to working as part of a team!

So, whats next ?

These past three years at university have been a whirlwind of emotions. I’ve gained and I’ve lost, but through it all, I’ve changed as a person — and for the better. I’ve gained confidence that I never had three years ago. I’ve become so passionate about my future, and it’s that passion that has inspired me and kept me going throughout my degree.

My mum has been my biggest supporter. Even though she had so much happening behind closed doors, she was always there for me. She’s the woman I look up to and think about whenever I’m close to giving up — she gave up so much so I could be where I am today. And my nan, who sadly passed away recently, was also my number one supporter. I hope to make her proud — she’ll always be in my heart.

So, as I’m writing this blog in my small university flat, looking out the window at the classic rainy weather, with only four weeks left of university, I’m filled with hope. I hope I’ll find my place within the working world, building a career where I’m happy and fulfilled. I know it’s going to be an adjustment and a shock to the system, but as long as I keep my spirits high, I know I’ll get there. I’ll find a place where I belong and where my work is appreciated. It might take a while — I’m not expecting it to happen straight away — and I know I’ll have to work twice as hard and prove myself. But one way or another, I’ll get there.

Here’s to new beginnings, endless creativity, and finding where I’m meant to be.