A Week in the life of a Photography Work Experience Student

This week, I have been joined in the office by Lilly-May, a local student who reached out to ask if she could undertake some work experience with me this week.

This was the first time I had agreed to accept a work experience placement student. There were a number of reasons behind it - for example, having to sort the right insurance, not actually being available at my office for the days required etc…

But this year, everything aligned and I decided that I would look into what I would require to have Lilly-May join me. And so, after filling in a few forms, arranging the proper insurance, ensuring my DBS check was up to date etc… I was ready to welcome Lilly-May at the start of this week.

For the last few days I have had the opportunity to give her a taster of many of the tasks that happen behind-the-scenes of a photography business. As such, I had set her a number of tasks to complete during the week and on this, her final day with me, I thought it would be a great idea to ask about her thoughts during the week.

Lilly-May - why did you choose to undertake your work experience in photography?

I chose to undertake my work experience in photography because it's something I love to do, I have loved taking photos ever since I was small and it’s something I’ve continued to love. I like taking photographs because it can capture the memories you sometimes can’t remember.

What was your favourite part of the week - did you find any tasks more enjoyable than others?

My favourite part of the week was going outside and learning how to use the camera properly and learning lots of new ways to edit pictures that I didn’t know before.

What skills do you think you have developed (or improved upon) during the week?

I have been able to learn how to use Lightroom, which has enabled me to edit pictures with a better understanding of how I can use different techniques to make them better. I’ve also learnt how to take Headshots so I know the correct lighting, angles etc.

Do you think you would like to pursue a Career in Photography? If so, what type of photography?

I would love to pursue a career in photography. I would like to find what type of photography I’m best at and do whatever I’m best at. I will do this at school by asking my teacher and having a play about with different types of photography. Also by practicing doing and taking pictures of different things and not just the same things I take photos of usually.

What advice would you give to other students hoping to undertake work experience in photography?

I would suggest that you look around your local area for photographers and tell them what type of photography you like and enjoy.

The wedding photos included in this blog post were edited by Lilly-May during the mini-project she completed during her week of work experience.