About me
- I graduated from the University of Kent with a 2:1 in Visual Design and Communication in November, focusing my studies on fashion photography in production and post-production.
- During my studies I have extensively learnt the features of Photoshop, including:
Retouching skin using the clone tool, spot-healing brush tool and using layer masks
Masking and cutting out details in order to replace backgrounds and move objects in or out of the frame
Creating and reducing shadows using the specific shadow tool in Photoshop, as well as brush and gradient tools
Using the liquify tool I can alter models body shapes to either create a slimmer and more universally accepted advertisement image, or to correct poses which may look awkward in still photography
Changing colours using the implements available in Camera Raw as well as making colour adjustments using levels, shadows and the desaturate feature in Photoshop
- When working on Photoshop CS5 for both my personal and professional projects I use a graphics tablet, and although I work on a PC, through my studies and my current work I have a good knowledge of Apple Mac.
- My recent photographic work has included event photographs for City & Guilds, Try Angles Award Foundation and Kent County Council. For this I was expected to photograph a red carpet event, edit the photos and produce the companies with a final memory stick (or hard copy) of the work within a short 4 hour deadline.
- I have photographed wedding ceremonies and, whilst this is not my ideal line of photography work, I have had the opportunity to develop my interpersonal skills when working with a client and managing an assistant.
- I have worked in professional studios and understand the technical aspect of studio lights and equipment during my work experience, university studies and through my more recent photographic portfolio-building work.
- In my current full-time work for Kent County Council I am responsible for managing 2 full-time and 3 part-time members of staff, including the interview and recruitment process, conducting regular 6-week supervisions, managing sickness, annual leave and schedules, as well as chairing team meetings and delegating tasks.
- In my role as Senior Support Officer I communicate with a large variety of stakeholders, working with Councillors, Senior Management Teams, the public, voluntary organisations and young people via e-mails, meetings, one-to-one sessions and phone calls to ensure the smooth running of the local government service.
- As part of my role I liaise with the KCC press office to ensure events are published to the local newspapers, radio and television network, as well as designing, creating and distributing brochures, the KCC Youth Service newsletter and event leaflets using Photoshop and Microsoft Publisher.
- I am extremely motivated, eager to learn new skills, and thrive under a stressful and target/deadline driven profession. My current job gives me the fast-paced work I enjoy, however I would like more opportunities to utilise my creative degree and love of photo-editing and fashion photography. Anything that I do not already know about the creative fashion industry I will be quick to learn and become a valuable member of your successful team.