Photojournalism and Documentary Photography 2012 Entry 

BA (Hons) Photojournalism & Documentary Photography

From visiting several universities before I applied, I decided that the University of Gloucestershire was situated in the nicest area. They had the exact degree I wanted to study and when I spoke to the tutors and lecturers on the open day they seemed so enthusiastic about their subjects, which I thought could be the perfect environment for me to enjoy learning. They are progressive and work closely with the industry to enhance the employability skills of their students.  It’s fine to use the studies to gain information but if that information is applied in a real situation then learning becomes fun and more productive.

The University is situated in the Cotswolds, which has some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.K, so it is great for outdoor activities between lectures.  Gloucestershire is quite central, which makes it easy to visit the larger cities.  This is really helpful when taking part in work experience where most of the jobs are.  The creative environment can be so refreshing and interesting.

There are plenty of opportunities to join social and sports groups where you will find some great people.  I’m the Press Representative for the Boardriders Club, which is for people who like to surf, skate, snowboard, wakeboard and basically do anything with a board! The group has grown since last year and we have great trips to places like the Snowdome and areas such as Devon, Cornwall, Wales, France and Spain - all in the name of riding boards and socialising.  We arrange barbeques and fundraising events which are great fun.  Plus, being a part of the committee means having your say in what you think the group should do and looks really great on your C.V.

The photographic assignments that I have to do for my course are quite open and left to your own interpretation, which means creativity isn’t smothered by guidelines and rules.  It allows you to progress in your own field of interest, which for me is surf photography.

The high point of my time has to be forming an exhibition of our photographic work with two other friends and getting real feedback from the public. Organising everything was great fun and the whole thing went really well.

I believe I’ve gained considerable experience in how an editor chooses images for publication, which is an essential standard to make it as a professional photographer. I’ve also learned how the media industry works and the best ways to work with it.  All the tutors I’ve been taught by have been industry-recognised photographers and editors for years before sharing their experiences and knowledge with the students.

I recently took part in a month long internship with Surfer magazine in Southern California where I worked in the photo editorial department.  This allowed me to fully understand the way everything fits together in the magazine and was an opportunity to develop my skills as a photographer. I had an awesome time and learnt a huge amount from it, none of which would have been possible without the support and help from my tutor and other staff. I organised the placement myself but they gave the support that meant I could recognise my goals and achieve them properly. They left me room to do it and were always there if I needed them - this way I could learn more from my mistakes.

My next venture will be a trip to South West France and Northern Spain to cover the Quicksilver and Billabong pro tours. Then when I get back I will move to Falmouth where I’m going to be working for Wavelength magazine for a while until I feel I’ve learned enough to go freelance.