From a young age I have had an interest in pictures and drawing, which developed, as I got older into an interest in textiles and a love of fashion. From this I decided to do an introductory course at The London College of Fashion, and it was there that my idea to pursue a career in photography and art direction first occurred. I found that although I was interested in the logistics and business side of the fashion industry it was the compositions, vibrant images and individuality of the advertising campaigns that truly inspired me. Studying photography at A-level I have learnt the importance of individual style and personal reading;seeing this put into practice in magazines and adverts led me to decide that with the aid of higher education I wanted to go on and work with photography and advertising.

　　I have always had a flair for business, completing GCSE, AS and A level exams with a high-grade average. I have learnt the importance of finances and budget restraints, which I think is a very valuable lesson to learn. By studying English Language I have been able to improve my writing skills and expand my knowledge of the way in which words can be used to influence and explain. I have found both these subjects to have aided me with various independent projects and have increased my understanding and ability to perform at a high level in different areas. When I joined The Henley College I began working and learning with a wide range of different people from different backgrounds, it was a large change from the structured life of an all girls grammar school. However, I found moving to this environment and a new way of education highly liberating, I was able to adjust very quickly, both socially and to the educational practices. From this experience I learnt to be very open to new opportunities and places, which has helped me with the projects and jobs I have done.

　　There are a large range of skills required when working in commercial photography- an example of these being networking and perseverance. In order to gain a wider perspective into the challenges of this as a career, as well as my subject coursework, I have done freelance work on a number of occasions including photographing private events and parties. I found these jobs to be more subjective as I had to work to a very specific brief with tight deadlines; the results of such experiences I have found to be highly positive. I have learnt to compromise with difficult clients and have had one of my photographs printed in BCFA member directory as part of an advertising campaign. However, the biggest learning curve I experienced was when observing work at a professional studio it was here I witnessed the patience and communication skills needed to become a successful art director. I think by working with lens-based media at a degree level I will be further towards gaining the attributes needed for this area of work.

　　From university I hope to go on to and work within the photography and creative advertising industry. I know the skills necessary are both creatively and academically challenging, but due to my ambition, social ability and general love of photography, I think it is definitely something I could excel at, given the opportunity.