I remember spending a lot of time in the computer/ library area as I was very easily distracted otherwise! In my second year, I worked as the College’s student photographer and photographed College events such as Battle of the Bands and the final theatre and drama performances. I loved the access that photography gave me to events that I wouldn’t normally have gone to.

Next, I went to university to study photography and make connections that have got me to where I am now. I was surprised to learn how many different careers there are within the industry and it felt like a lot of pressure to choose one to pursue. I also learnt to put my mental and physical health first, as the industry is tough, and your biggest asset is being able to keep going.

Now I’m a London-based freelancer working in multiple areas of the photography industry. My roles include photographer, on-set photo and lighting assistant – think a photography version of a surgeon’s assistant, where I hand the photographer a camera instead of a scalpel! I also work as a lighting technician and runner in studios such as Big Sky Studios, where I provide the lighting for clients including Kylie Minogue, Kate Moss, Vogue, Burberry and Universal Studios.

Working at Big Sky is my proudest achievement so far as I’m mixing with some really inspirational industry leaders. My goal is to work up to being a photographer or first assistant on high budget photoshoots, but I’m also just going to see where the future takes me and ensure that I feel fulfilled by the work that I’m doing.

College is where my teachers began pushing me to think outside of the box and this is the skill that has taken me the furthest. Not following the crowd and taking every opportunity that comes your way is also what makes you memorable and gives you confidence that you can take forward into future roles.

Adèle Spicer
Reigate College: 2014-2016
Higher Education: BA Photography, Solent University then MA Photography, Arts University of Bournemouth
Currently: Freelance Photographer and Lighting Technician