Last month, our Level 3 Photography students were visited by former UCW BA Photography student, Josh Lomen, who returned to share his journey into higher education and the opportunities the course has provided him. Now working as a documentary landscape photographer, Josh focuses on capturing and communicating the changes within local environments. He discovered this specialism during his degree, where he experimented with a range of media practices, gradually building his portfolio and refining a distinctive personal style.

During the session, Josh presented his work and spoke about the wide-ranging opportunities available through the UCW Photography degree. His achievements include receiving several awards, being featured in publications and exhibitions, and connecting with well-known photographers, giving him valuable opportunities to promote his work. Hearing about these experiences inspired our students to consider progression into higher education, recognising how it can open up diverse pathways, strengthen their portfolios, and help them build professional networks within the industry.

Josh also outlined key areas of study within the BA Photography degree, including portfolio development, website design, and the exploration of different media practices. He highlighted the course’s emphasis on independence and creativity, even giving students the opportunity to create their own photography award which is an experience that reflects the course’s innovative and industry-focused approach.

The guest lecture provided an invaluable real-world perspective, helping to ease any concerns our students may have about transitioning from further education to university. By sharing his personal journey from student to award-winning photographer, Josh offered genuine insight into the experimentation, resilience, and commitment required to succeed in a creative field. His reflections on developing his style particularly emphasised the importance of curiosity and persistence, which strongly resonated with students as they begin to shape their own creative identities.

Josh’s success clearly demonstrated the potential outcomes of pursuing a BA Photography degree. His insights into the course content showcased the breadth of skills students can develop, encouraging them to think ambitiously about their futures. As a result, students left the session with a clearer understanding of how to build a professional portfolio and establish meaningful connections within the industry.

Sam Brooks, Photography lecturer at Weston College, commented: “Our photography community in North Somerset, Bristol and the wider area develops each year, and we love welcoming former students back to demonstrate how both the industry and courses at Weston College can benefit individuals. The degree course offers students the opportunity to build on technical, research and professional skills, ensuring they graduate well-prepared to enter the industry.”

A huge thank you to Josh for sharing his invaluable insights and experiences, giving our students a first-hand look at the exciting possibilities that lie ahead after further education.

This guest lecture forms part of the Photography Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.