Graduating can seem like a joyous but also daunting process, entering the ‘real world’ of employment and fulfilling those career dreams. But the question I found was where do I start? After completing BA (Hons) Media Production at the University of Lincoln in 2010 I knew I wanted to pursue a career in photography or film, but didn’t know how to even remotely achieve it as well as be able to afford to live. There are a lot of free internships out there to gain experience but I didn’t have the savings or come from a location where I could do it living from my family home.
So I decided to go travelling, visiting New Zealand, Australia and Fiji. Upon my return still none the wiser I continued in a trade I had worked in since a teenager, catering. But knew that although it had taught me a lot and shown me that a hands-on job role is what I would like, it was not going to get me closer to the world of media. I also tried my hand at family portraits and wedding photography but realised this was not the job that I wanted to pursue long term. Living in Lincoln helped me gain knowledge and understanding of other options, the main one being that the Royal Air Force has a photographer role, after deciding to join, I completed all the tests required and was on basic training within 6 months of sending that application form off.
I haven’t looked back, it has given me so much opportunity in photography but also in so many other aspects. Continue reading
