After recently finishing her New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 6), Chelsea Uncles isn’t holding back. She’s diving head first into the industry and opening her own photography studio in Feilding.
"I started doing a few photography shoots last year out the back of our garage with my own gear. It was good to help me get started, but a little small for the long run. I've just moved into my new studio on the main street of Feilding and I'm so excited!"
Officially opening her studio doors this month, Chelsea is loving her new venture - although a photography career wasn't always on the cards for her.
"I did a bit of photography in high school and thought it was fun, but I never seriously thought about it as a career until I was asked to photograph my friend's wedding a few years ago. Having the camera in my hand again just felt awesome, so I decided to enrol in
UCOL's photography programme.
"I definitely could have just bought a camera and tried to set up my own business. I already had the skills to take a nice picture, but I decided to go to UCOL because I wanted to learn more - and I'm so glad I took the leap because I learned all the skills I needed to effectively run my business.
Chelsea says that she's incredibly grateful to her lecturers and the course content for getting her to where she is today.
"From day one, we were set up for success. We get to learn all about business, accounting, marketing, interviews and it's all specific to photography. I'm now putting those skills into action, and it's exactly what my lecturers taught me."
The
Diploma in Photography is all about finding your speciality and learning how to get out and do it as a profession, says Chelsea.
"During the first year of my course, I got to dabble in a little bit of everything and try different styles. I realised I like capturing more human-based photography and making connections with people during their special moments."
However, it wasn't until Chelsea and her husband faced some personal difficulties that she found her niche.
"My husband and I were trying to get pregnant, but we found out we weren't able to conceive. Because I couldn't have children of my own, I ended up making babies the focus of my work.
"I've always been good with kids, so it felt like a natural fit. I do a lot of newborn, early childhood and family photography now. I want to give people the memories I wish I could have on my wall."
One of the most satisfying parts of her work is building long-term relationships with her clients, says Chelsea.
"I photographed one boy through his entire first year - that's been amazing. I got to photograph him right from when he was a newborn, through Easter, family portraits, and his first cake smash. I get to watch him grow up - I feel like a proud aunty," she laughs.
"It took seven years of trying for his mum to get pregnant with him, which resonated with me. I've now been there for all these important moments and I feel like my client is now my friend."
Going forward, Chelsea wants to expand into boudoir photography.
"I just had my first boudoir photoshoot last week. I love this kind of photography, it's so empowering and there's no one else offering this in Manawatū."
For people wanting to get into photography, Chelsea says if you have the passion, take a chance.
"The way I see it, UCOL gives you all the skills you need to dive head-first into the industry. If you don't take the leap, it's just yourself that's stopping you.
"What our lecturers are great at is helping us get over our imposter syndrome. They're straight up - so if they see you doubting yourself when you have the talent, they'll let you know."