As a child I was always interested in photography but that early interest grew into a passion when I studied the subject at GCSE level. By the time I embarked upon the BTEC National Diploma course, I had already purchased my first new camera, an Olympus e-140 and was positive that my future career would involve photography in some form.

At the present time I am endeavouring to make the most of every opportunity that presents itself in capturing as many interesting, diverse and technically challenging images as possible.

I feel the photographs submitted represent the varied subject matter contained in my portfolio, from live music events, skateboarding shots, of which I am a keen participant, studio work and long exposure work, including light painting and star trails.

Lighting is always a challenge when shooting music events but I find a flash is not always necessary, for example the DJ silhouette photo, where I made use of the club lighting.

On the studio portrait shot, chalk was applied to the face to add a contrasting dimension. The two outdoor shots are part of commissioned promotional shoots for ‘Ministry of Sound’ artist Paul Morrell and ‘Funkyst Wear’ fashion, Coventry’s up and coming street apparel.

The droplet photo, one of a series of 12, was taken for a college project entitled ‘Water Calendar’. Perfecting the timing of the drop was crucial.

The unique opportunity to capture Thom Yorke, lead singer of Radiohead, live on stage came from obtaining a press pass for the Big Chill Festival 2010. Working alongside photographers from the mainstream press was a valuable experience and made me determined to continue studying the subject. The BA (Hons) Photography programme would offer me the opportunity to fully explore my potential and ultimately gain the qualifications to enter a photography related career.