I have started this course because i hope it will further my already extensive interest in photography. I am looking forward to this course expanding my artistic appreciation of photography and compliment my technical abilities. Hopefully the BA Hons course will assist me in my long term career goals of gaining a recognised qualification to add to my 8 years of experience as a professional photographer.
I have been a professional photographer for 8 years and a keen amateur for many more. I have been employed in many various media operations roles which has seen me cover such high profile events such as the London Olympics, The Edinburgh Tattoo and the launch of HMS Queen Elizabeth.
My most recent deployment saw me travel to Antarctica for the 17/18 Ice Patrol Season where I worked extensively with the World Wildlife Fund recording them as they help police the Antarctic Treaty. I am currently lucky enough to be seconded to Number 10 Downing Street, where I carry out the duties of Official Photographer of the Prime Minister, which is a great honour.
As well as my photography interests I am a keen cameraman and enjoy making short videos for social media. I recently took part in filming a documentary (Extreme Christmas Dinners) which appeared on Channel 4. I also enjoy giving organised talks about photography to anyone who will listen including, camera clubs, local schools and charities. My latest project outside of work has seen me teaching photography to vulnerable adults at the Glasgow City Mission charity in Glasgow.
In 2017 I was awarded the distinguished Peregrine Trophy award for images I submitted as part of a portfolio of photographs submitted by my department. I also won individual awards in the Maritime Air and Engineering Excellence awards and was highly commended in the media ops video award and highly commended for the Photographer of the Year award.
The awards primary puropose, is to produce eye catching powerful imagery, to be used in the media to demonstrate the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. It is a coveted prize, deemed the highest award a photographer can win within the Royal Navy Photographic Branch.
I have worked in the media industry for over 8 years. Working to a consistently high standard, I regularly liaise with multiple media agencies to time critical deadlines for news, print and social media.
I am confident my skill set will marry well with this course and subject matter. I also believe it will help me achieve my long term goals of gaining a formal qualification to compliment my ongoing vocational experience.
Ben's Blog 