I was given my first camera when I was about 9 by my parents as a birthday present. I loved taking photos, but was limited by the cost of film and developing. Despite loving chemistry, I never really enjoyed developing the film myself. So having a camera was really about capturing memories which I periodically revisit through these photos.
I bought my first digital camera in the late 1990s but I found it more and more limited in taking the photos I wanted to capture. Finances allowed me to upgrade steadily over the years and I now have a good quality kit that produces stunning results. I also discovered digital editing. For me, this was a game-changer as I was able to take a photo from the camera and transform it into the picture I either remembered or wanted it to be!
Taking the Professional Diploma in Photography felt like the next step. It acted as a strong motivator to try out new ideas and techniques, to research ideas, and to learn from others. I feel that over the 3 years it has taken me to complete the course I have grown substantially in the way I approach my hobby, though I now find myself always wanting to take a great picture rather than just capturing a memory!
In particular, I have grown to really enjoy photographing people, indoors and out, formal, informal, candid, and street. I am interested in developing a more creative approach so fully intend to continue my photography journey, and stay in touch with the IOP.
Retirement is looming and as a hobby, it provides me with a passion I can use to fill some of my time, and hopefully, I will be able to pass some of my enthusiasm and knowledge onto others.
Thanks again for such a great opportunity
See more of Steve’s work here
