Photography students quiz top professionals

War photographer Rick Findler, Daily Mail press photographer Georgie Gillard and recent photography graduate, Hollie Freeman took part in a day of talks as part of the department’s summer enrichment activities, helping to prepare students for their A-level study, progression onto degrees and pursuing job opportunities.

Hollie Freeman left Collyer’s three years ago achieving an A at A-level photography. Having just graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a 2:1 BA (Hons) Degree in photography, Hollie gave an insight into university life and showed the students her project, encouraging them to continue to photograph for their coursework and also for their portfolios. The students were particularly interested in Hollie’s conceptual work.

Hollie was thrilled to back: “Returning to Collyer’s as a graduate is great. Seeing the potential in the current students has been really inspiring.”

Press photographer for the Daily Mail Georgie Gillard explained the importance of work experience and entering competitions, as it helps gain exposure within the industry. She showed the students her Team Great Britain portraits taken at the 2012 Olympic Games, together with her coverage and front page feature taken at the Paralympics, amongst other high profile projects.

Georgie was amazed at the quality of the student work: “I have seen a fantastic range of photography on display in the department; I am incredibly impressed by the standard shown by these talented students.”

Collyer’s student Victoria Menzies was also impressed: “Today has given us an amazing insight into the professional world of photography. Meeting working photographers has been brilliant, and it has shown me possible career paths after I finish my studies at college.”

Rick Findler’s powerful presentation about his war and documentary work was a unique experience for both staff and students. Rick showed images from war zones in Libya, Syria and Iraq. His moving insights into front line experiences were compelling. His presentation also gave students an insight into the highs and lows of this genre of photography, as last month Rick was photographing at a Forward Operating Base in Kurdistan, and on his return to Britain, was then photographing at Glastonbury festival.

It was Rick’s first visit to Collyer’s and he was full of praise for the department: “It was great coming to speak to the photography students and a privilege to meet the future stars of the photography world!”

Student Isobel Carne said: “I didn’t realise just how close to the action photographers and journalists have to get. These images are so important, as it shows the world what others are going through.”

Subject Leader for photography at Collyer’s, Laura Andrews was delighted: “Thank you so much to Rick, Georgie and Hollie for taking time out of their busy schedules to come and visit us today. Their enthusiasm and passion for their work has been truly inspiring. It has been a wonderful opportunity for our students and will help them with future projects and progression.”

Report and picture contributed by Collyer’s.