Studying photography at BCU isn't just about learning how to take a good photo - it's a course that emphasises the importance of storytelling, building a portfolio, career and breaking into the creative industry. We caught up with final-year student, Hannah Beveridge, who told us about her journey which ultimately led to her working with Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Hannah’s love for photography started early at 12 years old. She fell in love with photography after being introduced to it by her dad, whose camera she remembers using. From visiting art galleries on the weekend to being gifted pencils and paints, creativity was always a part of her young life, and she went on to study at the Northern School of Art in Middlesborough. During her A levels, Hannah was diagnosed with bone cancer, which led to her having to put her education on hold. Despite the numerous operations and rehabilitation sessions, Hannah held onto her creative ambition and refused to restart her A-levels, leaving college with three A levels; Art History, Photography and Textiles.
After her final operation, she had written off hopes of university, but a split-second decision, craving a fresh start and a university that had specialism in photography and media, Hannah decided to bring this ambition to BCU, where she spent her time developing her craft, building a strong portfolio, and finding her voice as a visual storyteller.
Through BCU’s partnership with Birmingham Royal Ballet, Hannah was selected to take part in a special opportunity. Over several months, she was given exclusive access to rehearsals and performances of the Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella to take photos. She captured the movement and emotion of the performances and the beauty of ballet, opening her world and experience to dance photography.
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This experience didn’t only boost Hannah’s portfolio, it opened doors – BRB were so impressed with her work they have already invited her back on a professional basis!
This has been a full circle moment for Hannah, “To go from dealing with health challenges to working with one of the UK’s leading ballet companies; it’s a bit surreal. But it shows what’s possible when you don’t give up on your passion.”
At BCU, through real-world opportunities, connecting students to business using our industry links, and creative freedom, we help students like Hannah turn setbacks into stepping stones and dreams into careers.