Why Photography?

Why I Chose Photography

I have chosen to specialise exclusively in photography as this is ultimately where my interest and passion lies.

I was first introduced to photography in high school at a very basic level.  The school I attended, actually had a dark room and during a short course on the subject, we were encouraged to take a photograph and develop the image ourselves.  This was under the teachers instruction, using the equipment and facilities provided at the school. Sadly it was only a taster and wasn't to be repeated. I didn't go on to progress with photography at that time as I was 'steered' in a very different direction by both school and family.  During my time in high school, I also tried many different creative classes including, art, pottery, woodwork, metalwork and dress making. None of these other creative areas held the same interest for me as photography.  Art and drawing wasn't very successful for me at all as I quickly established that drawing/painting is not a talent I possess.

I decided to pursue education in photography now that my children are adults, leaving me with more free time to make such a choice.  Photography was a natural choice, as I my interest in photography had never left me and my husband is also very keen on photography so ultimately supports my decision to take it further.  I believe studying photography through education is the best route to take in order progress my photography, as not only do I learn many new skills and develop ideas, but also, I benefit from the support network that comes as an added bonus with an educational environment.  Following completing two City and Guilds Level 2 certificates in different areas of photography, I strongly felt the desire to further my skills with a level 3, full time photography course.  This may ultimately take me onto the Foundation Degree or equip me with the confidence to pursue a career in photography.

Following exploring different genres of photography, I have found that my interest lies with outdoors rather than the studio, that is not to say I don't enjoy studio photography but I do prefer to be out in the world, photographing what I see.  I enjoy walking holidays in the Lake District and photography actually encouraged me to deal with my fear of heights because I felt I was missing out on the scenes from high up on the fells. As it turned out, that was very true and I have developed an appreciation of Landscape Photography taken from the fells that I have explored. When viewing my photographs after the event, I enjoy looking back at the scene I witnessed on the walk and still wonder how I have been brave enough to undertake the ascent, something I haven't experienced with other genres of photography.  Street Photography also holds an interest for me and recently I have been exploring this genre in some more depth.  Looking back at history and the many photographers who have specialised in street photography, makes me realise the importance of the social documentary and recording time aspects of this genre.  It is an area that I am planning to explore in greater detail.