Interview with Photographer Jennifer Wilcox

Jennifer Wilcox is an emerging Scottish artist pursuing a career in art documentary. She graduated from the department of Visual Communication at The Glasgow School of Art in 2010, specialising in photography.

Jen has kindly agreed to answer a few questions for our blog about her career path so far. Have a read below:

What course did you study? Why?

Visual Communication at GSA. It's contemporary & can make a difference.

How would you describe your career path since graduating?

Slow & steady, with focus.

Did you always want to become a photographer? An artist?

Yes and no. I have many interests, I finally decided that art would let me explore them all. I've had far too many injuries in sport to take that side of things any further & didn't take the correct highers at school to apply for marine biology.. It hasn't been a straight path to get here!

What influences you?

Everything. knowledge/environment/history..

How would you describe your photographic style?

Fine art documentary.

Who or what would you love to shoot that you haven't already?

The environment is my future focus, and all that comes with it.

How do you feel about digital manipulation and to what extent do you use it within your work?

I work with digital & analogue, preferring analogue. If I'm processing either film or digital images on the computer, I work on them minimally, using dark room techniques. I don't tamper with the image content and I don't follow fashion trends.

How do you promote yourself?

Not very well.

Who is your favourite photographer?

There is a photographic image that inspired me when i was much (much) younger - it was a remake of John William Waterhouse's 'Lady of Shalott'.  At the time, it pushed personal boundaries and opened new ideas. Now I couldn't pin point one artist. Photography is a very powerful tool, if used skillfully and thoughtfully.

 Original painting from John William Waterhouse

What skills have you found are essential whilst working within the Creative Industries?

Learn to take advice, criticism and rejection and turn it into a positive!

I think my projects are slightly different than most, so it's hard to give generic public advice here! I use a lot of gathered lifetime skills when 'out on the field' and have a lot I still want to learn. Each of my projects will open up new doors and new opportunities. For new graduates I recommend seeking some focus, work/life experience (i.e. travel) and business awareness.

What advice would you give to young people interested in pursuing a career within Photography?

Research all areas of the industry and find some personal focus/interest. Play with the camera as a tool.. learn (or be influenced) by your mistakes! Observe & look for inspiration around you. Keep up to date on current affairs. Finally, value your work/beliefs and learn to adapt.

 Have a look below for some of Jen's images or check out her website www.jenniferwilcox.co.uk