Despite being passionate about photography for many years, it was only after the birth of her third child that Nicole Mankowski invested in a camera. Then, determined to capture more than the simple snaps of an everyday amateur shutterbug/doting parent, Nicole enrolled in a photography course at TAFE NSW.

“If you start somewhere the rest will follow,” Nicole says. “Often the hardest part is the initial decision to begin, but then the direction will become obvious.”

LEARNING IN FOCUS

“I learn by doing, so TAFE NSW was perfect for me as a learning environment,” Nicole says about the studio-based learning of her photography course.

“The hands-on learning enables you to be confident and ready for industry, to be able to walk in the door and be competent and able to carry out your vision within your chosen industry.

“For me there would be no other online learning comparison that could facilitate this. There was a real emphasis on being hands-on with some amazing equipment and facilities.”

EXPOSURE TO EXPERIENCE AND SUPPORT

“Working collaboratively with other students allows personal development and also strengthens the ability to work as a team,” says Nicole. “To support and inspire each other is a great learning support and key ability for the future.”

Like most TAFE NSW students, Nicole’s learning experience was enhanced by the professionalism and industry knowledge of her teachers, as well as the support of fellow students.

“The teachers, along with their technical knowledge, provided a great range of experience in industry. Their support is a key part of our learning, but also their ability to inspire us along the way.”

DEVELOPING A FUTURE

As part of the digital age, photographer jobs have grown strongly over the past five years and are expected to be in demand in the future. According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook, there are likely to be around 1,800 job openings a year.

With skills and confidence Nicole developed during her time studying at TAFE NSW, she is embracing a new career with  open arms.

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