Martyn’s passion for photography began as a hobby, but his decision to return to education as a mature student transformed it into a thriving career. Choosing a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Photography at Ayrshire College was the crucial first step. He saw the HND as a way to gain a professional grounding and a solid portfolio, ensuring he would be more than just “another person with a camera.” This HND journey became a launchpad for his remarkable success, blending hands-on learning with real-world experience. Martyn has recently been awarded ‘Student of the Year’ at Ayrshire College and is now continuing his journey with a BA (Hons) at Edinburgh College.
A Wild Ride of Hands-on Learning
Martyn’s HND was defined by practical, hands-on projects that pushed him to grow as a photographer. He saw every assignment as an opportunity to build a professional reputation, a mindset he says is “essential” in the photography field. His graded unit, a photojournalism project inspired by LIFE magazine, was a pivotal moment. This project saw him collaborate with local Ayrshire artists, from painters to potters, and taught him to create images that were not just technically sound but also meaningful. It wasn’t just about passing a unit; it was about creating work that could help individuals and their livelihoods.
This real-world approach extended beyond the classroom. Martyn actively sought opportunities to work with small local businesses like Blackthorn Sea Salt and Muddy Mutts. These collaborations gave his learning “real meaning” and provided a tangible impact on his community. He also credits the Ayrshire College marketing team for giving him valuable professional experience photographing events, which helped him understand the demands of producing high-quality images for marketing and print.
A Passport to the Next Level
For Martyn, the HND was the perfect stepping stone to a university degree. It gave him the essential technical skills, a strong portfolio, and the industry experience needed to gain entry into his BA (Hons) at Edinburgh College. He believes the HND’s combination of learning and doing prepared him to step into degree-level work with confidence and a solid understanding of the business and creative sides of photography.
Martyn’s journey is a testament to the HND’s ability to shape a career. His achievements, including being a finalist for Scottish Pet Photographer of the Year, having work published in magazines, and winning awards, all trace back to the foundation he built at Ayrshire College. As he puts it, the HND taught him to “treat every brief seriously,” leading to a portfolio that opened doors.
Advice for the Next Generation
Reflecting on his experience, Martyn offers this advice to anyone considering an HND: “Whether you’re just leaving school or coming back later in life, the HND is a brilliant way to build both skills and confidence.” He encourages students to fully commit to their projects and to treat every piece of work as a professional brief, a practice that will ultimately lead to a foundation for a successful career.
