UKH

Hi,

I am a recent photography graduate and looking for a job of sorts in the field.
I have studied fine art photography in Brighton so all of the 'useful links' they gave us were not that useful since I am predominantly interested in adventure/travel photography. That also meant that my overall subject interest very quickly faded when I realised that tutors were not massively interested in anything that I wanted to learn so I opted for graduating first and then sorting out my life.
I was wondering if any of you have had any similar experience or have any tips on how to go about things like this? So far I have been collecting names of climbing photographers to look up whether they are based anywhere near Sheffield where I live now.

Any advice appreciated!

Cheers,
Ana

In reply to cookie-doo:

Hi, I'm a Sheffield based photographer. I'm not a pro, but am happy to chat to you about the industry and point you at some useful contacts if that helps.

Dan

In reply to Dan Arkle:

Hey, I messaged you, but I don't think it's gone through. The gist of the message was that I'd love to meet up and I'll be grateful for any advice

Ana

In reply to cookie-doo:

Hi Ana.

I've worked in photography since 2003 and as a pro (commercial & press) for about eight years now. I took a slightly different route to you in that I started out working in photographic libraries, but did similar to you in that I listed all of the people I thought I might like to work for and just phoned all of them up. I don't think I sent off any CVs or even had any interviews, preferring the direct cold calling method to get started. I eventually had some luck with Royal Geographical Society who needed a paid intern which in turn was just what I needed, a brilliant and inspiring place to work and a good springboard.
So I'd say just phone everyone you might consider (or even knock on their door) It's far harder to ignore a phone call than another CV on the doormat, or an email.

As far as 'adventure photography' goes, I know very little I'm afraid. So far I've earned a small amount of money from photographing climbing in its various forms and am in the process of doing something that'll earn me a bit more, but overall it's been a tiny, tiny part of my income so I'd say do think about other commercial directions too. That said if you can afford to spend a bit of time embarking on purely adventure photography now, it might be your best bet before becoming mired down in the expense of mortgages and kids - if you aren't already.

Likewise, any questions just send an email.
Good luck.
Tom