A very keen, enthusiastic, and self-taught photographer who hopes to become a photographic journalist.

History

My parents decided for my tenth birthday to give me a Kodak Disc Camera, what can I say, I used the disc that it came with and that was that. It never took, I never found photography interesting. I was more interested in computers and programming. During my years at college I had a friend who was into Black & White photography and developing his own photos. I showed a brief interest, but that is all it was.

Then in 2007 I bought a Kodak Easyshare camera and for some strange reason, that was it, I was hooked. I was forever taking photos, nothing in particular, just anything. Within weeks I started getting bored with the camera. It just didn't do what I wanted, I started showing an interest for macro photography and the camera was just not up to the job. After weeks of researching I knew that I wanted a Dslr, I eventually opted for a Canon EOS 300d, and that's when things took off.

I never studied photography at school or college, and my local college didn't provide any courses in photography. I wanted to learn the basic aspects of photography, how to use the non auto modes of the camera, how to light subjects, but most importantly composition. Ever since I bought the Kodak Easyshare, I had to rely on numerous magazines and books to learn most of the skills I now possess today. Some of the time it has been a struggle but I coped and I persevered. This is not a plug, but one of the resources that has been a godsend and an inspiration are the books by Scott Kelby and the podcasts that Scott Kelby, Dave Cross, and Matt Kloskowski(Photoshop guys) release every week.

In October 2008 I started a short course with the Open University the T189 in Digital Photography, In December I passed with a mark of 98%. I was quite surprised, much better than I had hoped. Before the start of the course, I decided it was a good time to upgrade to a better camera. I liked Canon, so I decided to stay with them. I bought the Canon EOS 450d with kit lens. I also bought a Sigma APO DG 70-300mm lens.

The Future

My interest and enthusiasm for photography has never been so strong. My camera now goes everywhere with me and shoots just about anything.

I am still determined to achieve a qualification that is recognised by the photographic industry, so much so, that in September 2009, I will start a course with the School of Digital Photography which is a Diploma in Digital Photography. My long-term aims have somewhat changed a little. I still would like to pursue a career as a photographic journalist, but I would also like to be awarded a Licentiateship by the Royal Photographic Society.