It is quite the dream to have a job which allows you to meet new people and discover new places. We spoke to the talented and lucky Masters Student, Lydia Clara, about her career choices and found out what she was using the studios for, too. Read more about this budding photographer here.
Can you tell us a little bit about what you’ve worked on recently at the Copperdollar Studios?
I’m currently studying photography (MA) and I’ve been working on a recent project which explores masculinity.
How did you hear about the studios?
I discovered the studios by Googling. I had recently moved to Brighton and was searching for a place to do a photoshoot. The studios caught my eye right away as there’s no other place quite like them.
What do you like most about the Copperdollar Studios and what would you say makes it different from other studios you’ve used?
I like how multi-functional the studios are and how they have been up-cycled to retain some of the original features of the place. There are also many different textures and walls in the space which gives a good variety when taking photos. It’s spacious, there’s lots of natural light and I also like how the colours of the space are neutral with warm tones. Unlike other studios I’ve used there’s a kitchen where you can have a coffee/tea break. Overall working in the studios is an enjoyable and creativity-fuelling experience.
How did you start working in this field and what advice would you give to people wanting to go down the same path as you?
I didn’t live in the uk growing up and the school I attended was mostly science and language orientated. I liked to paint and so I painted outside of school then put together a portfolio so I could apply to do a foundation course. During the course I discovered photography and I’ve been on the same path ever since. To people wanting to go down the same path as me, my advice would be to not be afraid to experiment a lot and to follow your intuition.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part is getting to meet new people and discover new places. The camera is an excuse to explore new things and have new encounters. It’s a tool that enables you to look at anything in depth and from different angles, both literally and metaphorically.
