Case studies: Freelance photographer: Charlie Staniland

Charlie used the skills she learned during her degree to set up a commercial photography business...

I graduated in 2004 with a BA (Hons) in Photography from the Blackpool and Fylde School of Art and Design, a course with degree validation from the University of Lancaster.

After graduation, I worked as a sub-contractor for a nursery photography company. I applied for the position on the Graduates Yorkshire website. I travelled all over the country photographing kids' portraits in nurseries. After the six-month contract ended, I applied for a position as a photographer for a lifestyle magazine company.

I was their photographer for three years until they made me redundant, at which point I decided to go freelance. I had already been doing weddings and the odd bit of freelance work while being employed so it wasn't too big an adjustment.

My degree subject was very relevant in securing my current job. The course enabled me to learn skills and development but was very much business orientated and aimed at getting a job. The focus was on being a working photographer as opposed to working in fine art.

I draw on the technical skills I learnt as I never know what conditions I will be working in until I arrive at a job. I have to make quick decisions based on what is available to me. But I also use the confidence I gained as well as the communications skills I learnt to get people to cooperate and do as I ask them.

No two days are alike; I can be working on anything from photographing a hairdresser to an ice cream maker to products and studio work to weddings and portraits. The variety and challenges are great. I have to be quick thinking and able to problem solve on the job. I also like the interaction with people and the look of delight on a client's face when you give them work they are pleased with.

Weddings can be very stressful, as they are such an important day, but the results are very rewarding.

I find the administration side of my job challenging as I'm a creative person. I find paperwork tough as I would much rather be taking images but it is a necessary part of running your own business.

My advice to graduates wanting to make it in a similar career is you have to be prepared to work hard; it is not a nine to five career. There are a lot of photographers so if you have drive and passion for photography you will do well. I found that experience is very valuable, so work experience would give a good insight.

AGCAS

Sourced by AGCAS editors

Date: 

March 2010

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