A snapshot in time or life through a lens?
One of the most valuable things in my life are memories. People I have met, places I have been to, how I felt at a particular point in time, these things have each become so special to me. Sometimes I worry that I won't remember everything, which is why I am particularly pleased about having a passionate photography lecturer. Upon showing her my work during a lecture, she told me I had the eye and the ability to take a picture, but the quality of my photos was terrible. I took this as a compliment. The only photography class available to me is an advanced one, so yes, I am out of my depth. They are shooting for editorial and not for fun, playing with lighting, props, make-up and the after editing process. I don’t let this discourage me, I know my place and they give me constructive criticism on what I do.
A few classes in, the lecturer asked me to join one of her basic photography classes. She lent me her camera to use. For this, I was extremely grateful. Realistically, she doesn’t have to give a toss about me or my potential. In two months', time I will leave this university and never return. I have a lot of respect for her.
I often took the camera along when going to interviews during my early days working in this newspaper's office. I will never forget my first time learning how to turn on a camera and being shown the basics. "Just take it," I was encouraged. "It can’t go that terribly wrong."
Upon my return, one look at the photos confirmed that it had gone terribly wrong. Since then, I have been making a conscious effort to learn how to take a picture. I am by no means professional, I would say my abilities now are in the ‘I get the odd compliment’ category, but it’s a stage up from an awkward silence followed by a phone call to get the photographer sent out.
* Gemma Good is from Killeshandra and a third year journalism student in University of Limerick
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