As demand for photographers grows across Australia, TAFE NSW is helping photography students step into the spotlight and launch their own businesses.

It comes as the number of photographers employed nationally has risen 12 per cent over the last year, and more Australian women than ever now run their own business, making up 36 per cent of small business owners.

Maighread Jardine is one of many skilled female graduates achieving success in the industry. After studying a Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging at TAFE NSW Ultimo, she is launching her own self-titled fine art and commercial photography business.

Ms Jardine recently won Silver and Gold at the Prix de la Photographie, Paris. She is currently exhibiting at The Muse, TAFE NSW Ultimo as part of the Head On Festival until 26 November, and will exhibit at the Alchemy Photography Exhibition on 28 November, also at The Muse.

“I originally studied graphic design, and decided to study the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging to improve my graphic design skills. Throughout the course, I discovered a real passion for photography and haven’t looked back since,” Ms Jardine said.

“My inspiration comes from trying different things and experimenting with things I would never have considered before the course, like using Photoshop, Polaroid cameras, and Instamatic film. I have to credit TAFE NSW with so much of my success to date – it wouldn’t have been possible without access to great teachers who are highly regarded in their fields.

“I’m still finding my own style, but it’s exciting to already be gaining traction working for myself. My practice consists of commercial photography including fashion and editorial, and also fine art including affordable prints and postcards, but also limited-edition prestigious pieces.

“When I found out I won gold and silver and two honourable mentions at the Prix de la Photographie in Paris, I didn’t believe it – I thought it’d been a terrible mistake. I’m still on a complete high. And now to be exhibiting my works as part of the Head On Festival and Alchemy Photography Exhibition is incredibly exciting. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come, and this is only the beginning.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Photography, Mark Woszczalski said it’s great to see students like Maighread achieving success in the competitive industry.

“As the photography industry experiences growth, we’re committed to equipping students with the hands-on skills they need to achieve their career goals. Through a mixture of practical and theoretical training, the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging equips students to work across a range of photography styles, so they can hit the ground running once they graduate.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au