Photography graduate secures position at one of the UK's leading photography exhibition spaces
Hugh Baird University Centre graduate Andrew Yates has secured a position at one of the UK’s leading photography exhibition spaces, Liverpool’s Open Eye Gallery.
Andrew, who studied the Photography and Digital Imaging degree at the Hugh Baird University Centre, gained the role of Creative Producer at the Open Eye Gallery shortly after he graduated.
As a Creative Producer, Andrew plays a key role in development and production of exciting and engaging artistic programmes as well as delivering and developing the gallery’s Schools and Young People Engagement Programme.
Reflecting back on his time at the Hugh Baird University Centre, Andrew said:
The tutors are one of the courses’ biggest asset. They really push the students to achieve to the best of their abilities. They all have a passion and a vast knowledge of the subject that includes current industry experience. This is something that is heavily incorporated into the course and ensures that the topics and techniques you’re studying are absolutely current and relevant to the industry.
During my time at the University Centre, we were also visited by several guest speakers and industry professionals. These ranged from local photographers to world renowned names such as Jason Evans and Max Pinckers. It was amazing and really valuable to hear about their experiences and get an insight into what it’s like to be commissioned photographer.
When asked how the course helped Andrew with his progression into industry he said:
The course encourages real world experience. We undertook live briefs working with different clients. This was nerve-racking at first but was a very important part of our development. We learnt about dealing with clients, interpreting their brief and of course delivering to tight deadlines.
A major part of the courses offered at the Hugh Baird University Centre is the personal and professional development of undergraduates. Most courses incorporate trips into their schemes of work and Andrew’s Photography and Digital Imaging degree was no different. Andrew said:
I visited a lot of places during my time at the University Centre. We went to Paris, Budapest, Rome, Edinburgh and London. The trips were all related to our coursework but were also a great way to get to know your fellow students. They also enabled us to enjoy new cultural experiences.
When asked about what advice he would give to someone thinking of applying to the University Centre, Andrew said:
I would say go for it; you won’t regret it. Education and your continual self and professional development is hugely important. It really is true that what you put in; you get out. The biggest thing the course did for me was that it presented me with new opportunities and I was able to make connections with like-minded people already working in the creative industries.
David Lockwood, course leader of the Digital Imaging and Photography course at the Hugh Baird University Centre, said:
Andrew is a great example of how our students go onto succeed in employment once they leave the University Centre. We strive to ensure all our graduates leave the University Centre equipped with the skills and knowledge for the world of work.
If you would like to find out more or for information about the Digital Imaging and Photography courses at the Hugh Baird University Centre, please visit: https://hughbaird.ac.uk/university-centre or telephone 0151 353 4444.
The BA (Hons) Top up in Digital Imaging and Photography is approved by the University of Central Lancashire.
