Creative Call Out | Emily

By December 4, 2021December 6th, 2021Creative Call Out, The Motive, Walsall

We’re supporting creatives like you to connect with who and what you need. We’re gonna feature local talent needing some know-how to get them to the next level. Let’s look out for each other. Keep dropping in to see who can help you. 

We’ll be talking to a new creative every week. This week we’re chatting with Emily, a 21 year old photographer from Birmingham, studying in Walsall. If you wanna work with Emily, or get involved with a project drop her a DM @beliefphotography

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

My name is Emily, I am 21. I am an upcoming photographer from Birmingham, I study at Walsall College. A couple of my hobbies besides photography are dancing which I did for 2 years, but decided to switch to taking pictures instead of performing. I also teach dance to young kids on the weekends. 

How has Covid impacted you?

Covid has affected me in terms of not being able to access studios and models aren’t comfortable enough to meet up outside. Also, my eyesight has been ruined due to being on my laptop a lot instead of being able to go out. It’s been hard to organise things for my final year. Eventually, I did manage to pull through! It was very uncertain if we were allowed out during the pandemic. I thought I could go out due to being classed as a Professional. However, I didn’t know where I was allowed to travel to be able to take these photos. The pandemic took control over my work as I had to find places that were secluded and out of the way, places where you wouldn’t be caught out or spoken to. 

 

Creative Call Out - Emily

21 Year old photographer Emily thinks there should be more photography training for young people.

What opportunities do you think should be made available to you?

I think colleges and councils should give courses/training on things such as photoshop. Myself and my peers have had to teach ourselves how to use photoshop which could have easily been taught via a course. Youtube tutorials aren’t really helpful, as a lot of people learn differently. Also, while watching a Youtube video you can’t ask questions. They don’t always cater to your objectives and what you want to learn. A course would be much more sufficient in teaching an individual and helping them more on a 1-1 basis rather than a wider scale. 

What’s something you struggle with as a photographer?

It’s difficult to find people who would pay for a photoshoot for photographers my age. A lot of people take pictures of themselves just fine using their phones due to technologies and innovations within mobile technology. It’s very difficult for photographers to find jobs. I think colleges should also give a lot more opportunities to build portfolios. From contacting myself I have found an opportunity with the University of Birmingham to be a photography ambassador. I found this myself however, I feel it should be easier to access these opportunities for young photographers as they aren’t as widespread currently. 

What do you think could make things easier for you?

There are a lot of opportunities regarding graphic design and photography. A lot of jobs require driving and it’s difficult to find a photography job where you don’t have access to transport or are provided it. Local councils and the government could perhaps provide transport or make it easier for young people.

 

If you’re interested in what Emily has spoken about, drop her a DM on @beliefphotography.  or contact Lyfeproof UK to connect you.