I am a highly creative professional school prospectus photographer with over 20 years experience working in the education sector. I have shot national campaigns for HM Government-The Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), Universities and Colleges, Secondary and Primary Schools, both public and local authority. I am fully aware of child protection and health & safety issues
Photographing within an educational establishment, whether it is a primary, secondary, college or university requires a specific set of skills. Not just photographic skills, these should be second nature to a professional school prospectus photographer but more importantly, excellent people skills.
Diplomacy, tact and patience are key. I have coached a local youth football team for the past six years (I am CRB checked) and I have taught photography at several local schools and colleges. Dealing with youngsters on a weekly basis helps me understand what makes students tick. It enables me to get my thoughts across quickly and clearly. Combined with the ability to read situations quickly, helps me to work with a minimum amount of fuss.
I can direct and choreograph the students and staff , putting them at ease and ultimately getting the shots you need!! I like to have a brief chat with my subject, quickly explaining what I am trying to achieve. This relaxes everybody involved because they now understand what is expected of them. I am flexible and accommodating as I appreciate that things can change at the last minute.
Todays cameras operate superbly in low light, capturing amazing detail without forsaking any image quality. This equipment enables me to work without lights, meaning I can work quickly and therefore photograph more scenarios in a day. This means a huge library of great images for you to choose from.
I started my career in PR photography, dealing with the general public on a daily basis. Diplomacy, tact and patience are key if you want to succeed and these apply in education. Speed is important, attention span is short so you need to work quickly but also make sure you capture the images required.
The first thing to consider when planning your photography is to think about how you want to be perceived by potential students and parents. Positivity is crucial, a prospective parent is looking for high standards, discipline and great facilities but above all they want their kids to be happy. Once you have established this think about what subjects, facilities, buildings you want to feature. What is your institutions ethos? There are lots of elements to consider so I would suggest one member of staff organises and co-ordinates the whole project. I will work closely with this person, helping and guiding if necessary.
I am fully insured for my Equipment, Public Liability and Professional indemnity.
Please have a good look at my Education School Prospectus Photographer Portfolio