DMD601: Professional Practice.

When I have completed this course, I aim to make my name within photography. I will use this year to build on my portfolio and make myself known more within the industry; I also want to attempt to expand my knowledge in other areas like moving images. I want to be able to gain more confidence within my photography and become for comfortable with taking my camera out in public and being able to take photographs in crowded places. Being able to practice a lot on my weaknesses, also. I could spend a good amount of time practicing editing in photoshop and getting my skills up to scratch.  

For my initial project I have decided to base on travel, where I will investigate culture within the United Kingdom, my aim for this project is to research the different culture and religions and other travel aspect's we cater within the United Kingdom, as we are a country that typically known to be very multicultural.  

Carrying out this project will mean I will hopefully explore outside my own cities venturing into others and researching what of culture hold within each city and/or area. II could also research the culture in people that live in the area and possibly look into doing some portrait shots. The outcome for this project is to give a cultural tourism outlook on the country we live within’ If I get the chance I would like to give these aspects in another country.   

To be able to carry out this project correctly and successfully I will be creating and following my own weekly schedule. alongside practicing Photoshop and editing photos as regularly as possible. 

Different ideas I had for this project.  

- Fashion  

-Fashion industry in cultures and religion.  

For fashion I could research into religion cultural differences is incorporated into fashion statements and trends. Along with how culture and different countries beauty standards are different.  

 -Music  

Music industry in Culture and how is it different to our own and other cultures 

Personalities in different music genres e.g. styles, fanbases, fashion.  

Why is music important.  

-Events 

Different types of events and the importance of them.  

Why are event so meaningful 

-Live music cultures.  

-Travel 

including Articulture, Candid shoots, Environmental, Styles, Culture 

I am incorporating travel and tourism into my project. To carry this out I am going to arrange dates that I can travel to different cities/areas that have a lot of different cultures, my purpose behind this is that every state in the United Kingdom are known for a certain culture or historic meaning behind them, I want to be able to include other countries into my project if I get the opportunity to do so. Before I am able to travel need to carry out some research in the places I will be visiting and what places are relevant to go to.  

My research why included what type of culture in involved in these places, the people that live within these cultures. I am also going to research other countries cultures although I may not be able to photograph it. I want to be able to do some in depth research into where these cultures originated from and how they are portrayed now.  

Below I have made a schedule of keep myself on track, so I know what to do and when I need to do it, the schedule also gives keeps me grounded and gives me practice for working towards deadlines.   

Goals to work towards  

Being able to successfully work within my schedule that I have made myself, giving myself deadlines and completing them on time.  

One of my struggles is photograph shop, I want to get my photoshop skills up to sketch. This means I need to take some time out to practice different aspects that will be needed within my photography, I can do this by watching tutorials.  

Contacts and practice - I need to put myself out there to be able to make a career is the area I want to be involved in. I need to ask around and try volunteers beside people how have better skills than me and I can start looking at smaller/public events.  

Intentions: my target audience is the public and other creators. The purpose of my project is to inform on a educational purpose, I am passionate about travelling and experiencing new cultures and history, I would aim this project at people who are interested in similar topics to me. I would also aim this at others for educational purposes to learn and inform.  

Throughout this project, I won't need any clients as majority of this is building based. I may need to incorporate clients, but I tend to this in a candid respect.  

To successfully carry out this project I will need the correct equipment; 

DLSR camera 

Tripod  

Relevent lens  

- 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM ART Wide-Angle Zoom Lens. 

Computer with editing software e.g., photoshop and lightroom 

Preparation for any weather that may need to be overcame.  

Sim card, multiple if possible 

Flash gun, for nighttime shots 

Do people like the areas 

Primary  

Travel photography is a type of photography that involves multiple aspects of photography being historical, landscape, culture and people in specific places.  

Job and career 

There’s a wide career choice within travel photography such as photojournalism, most photojournalists work on a freelance basis, working in commissions to clients or publications. Typically, a photojournalist would be hired to take images on behalf of an event, magazine, newspaper, telling a story. 

Resort photographer, many resorts will have photographer positions available. Typically, photographers are hired during the high season, they tend to photograph either the resort itself, or activities that taken place in or around the area. This is done on a advertising basis.  

There's also opportunities to do a mix of everything by being a freelance travel photographer, their clients may include individuals, magazines, websites, publishing houses, media houses, hotels and content writers. They may create pictures and videos of interesting locations, adventure tourism, culture and heritage at local and international destinations. 

Blogger, working on your own basis for a more personal experience. Engaging and interacting with people on social media platforms, this would mean having to build a big platform be able to make a career out of this.  

There are many more career aspects to travel photography such as wedding, wildlife and landscape however, I have stated the most popular and highest pay/career rate.   

A photography that really inspires me with the work he does is Nicco Valenzuelawho is a travel photographer among others. Nicco Valenzuela is a landscape, travel, and architectural photographer based in Quezon City, Philippines. His photographs showcase the landscapes and cityscapes of southeast Asia, along with various destinations around the world. His clients comprise of reputable international and local architectural firms and development corporations. On top of his professional work as an architectural photographer, Nicco is one of the most reputable photography content writer/creators in the Philippines. 

I particularly like the way he takes images that show culture, art, architecture and how the images he takes tell a story. I like the way he has edited his images to look soft and textured.  

Valenzuela who said “Depending on the place that you are visiting, you can also definitely find a few modern buildings that represent the state of development of a place. While Singapore is particularly known for rapid development and innovation, the abundance of such newer building varies on where you are. In most cases, a great way to photograph the relevance of architecture in the culture of a place as well as give a good glimpse of how drastically the place has changed when it comes to modernation is by photographing the old and new together. The juxtaposition of structures, buildings, or other visual elements in photos that represent two or more different periods in time is a great way to characterise the place and tell stories about it.” which is something that helped me a lot during my project  

London, the capital city of the United Kingdom, is renowned for its rich and diverse culture. It is a global city that attracts people from all corners of the world, resulting in a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere. Here are some key aspects of London's culture.  

 Arts and Entertainment: London is a major centre for arts and entertainment. It is home to numerous world class theatres, including the Royal National Theatre, the West End, and Shakespeare's Globe. These venues showcase a wide range of theatrical performances, from classic plays to contemporary productions. The city also hosts various art galleries and museums, such as the Tate Modern, the British Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, which exhibit works spanning different periods and styles.  

 Music in London has a thriving music scene, encompassing various genres from classical to contemporary. It is known for its iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena, where renowned musicians and bands perform. The city has a rich history in producing influential music movements, including punk, rock, and electronic music. There are also numerous music festivals held in and around London, attracting both local and international artists. 

 The cuisine London offers a diverse culinary landscape, reflecting its multicultural population. You can find a wide range of international cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern, among others. The city is also known for its vibrant street food scene, with markets such as Borough Market and Camden Market offering a variety of delicious options. Additionally, London has a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing the city's culinary excellence.  

Museums and Galleries: London is home to a vast array of museums and galleries, providing visitors with opportunities to explore art, history, and culture. The British Museum, located in Bloomsbury, houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts from around the world. The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square hosts one of the finest collections of European paintings, while the Tate Modern focuses on contemporary art. Other notable institutions include the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. 

 Festivals and Events: London hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, catering to different interests and communities. Notable events include the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe's largest street festival celebrating Caribbean culture, and the Trooping the Colour, a grand military parade held to celebrate the Queen's official birthday. The city also holds the London Fashion Week, London Film Festival, and the New Year's Day Parade, among others.  

London has a strong sporting culture and has hosted major international sporting events, including the Olympic Games in 1908, 1948, and 2012. The city is home to several iconic sports venues, such as Wembley Stadium, Lord's Cricket Ground, and Wimbledon, where world-class sporting events take place. Football (soccer) is particularly popular, with several Premier League clubs based in London, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur. London's culture is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, influenced by its diverse population and historical significance. It is a city that celebrates creativity, diversity, and a passion for the arts, making it a cultural hub with something to offer for everyone. 

Manchester, located in the northwest of England, has a vibrant and distinctive culture that is deeply rooted in its industrial heritage and rich history. Here are some key aspects of Manchester's culture. 

Music of Manchester has a legendary music scene that has had a significant impact on the global music industry. It is known as the birthplace of the "Madchester" movement of the late 1980s and early 1990s, which brought bands like The Stone Roses and Happy Mondays to prominence. The city is also closely associated with the rise of Britpop in the 1990s, with bands like Oasis and The Verve emerging from Manchester. The city has a thriving live music scene, with numerous venues hosting both established and up-and-coming artists.  

Football: Manchester is passionate about football. It is home to two of the most successful and iconic football clubs in the country: Manchester United and Manchester City. The rivalry between these two clubs is intense and adds to the city's sporting culture. Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium and Manchester City's Etihad Stadium are major landmarks in the city and attract fans from all over the world.  

Industrial Heritage: Manchester has a proud industrial heritage, particularly in the textile industry. The city played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution and was at the forefront of the cotton industry. This legacy is still evident in the cityscape, with former factories and warehouses being repurposed as cultural spaces, museums, and galleries. The Museum of Science and Industry provides insights into the city's industrial past.  

Art and Culture: Manchester has a thriving arts and cultural scene. The city is home to various art galleries, including the Manchester Art Gallery and the Whitworth Art Gallery, which exhibit a wide range of contemporary and historical artworks. Manchester is also known for its street art, with numerous colourful murals adorning the city's buildings. The Manchester International Festival, held biennially, showcases a diverse range of arts, including music, threate, dance, and visual arts. 5. Literature: Manchester has a rich literary history and has been home too many influential writers. The city was the birthplace of the famous author Elizabeth Gaskell, known for her novels set in Manchester during the Industrial Revolution. Moreover, Manchester's vibrant music and cultural scene has inspired many poets and writers, including Tony Wilson, John Cooper Clarke, and Lemn Sissay.  

Manchester hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Manchester International Festival, mentioned earlier, is a major cultural event that attracts artists and performers from around the world. Additionally, the Manchester Pride Festival celebrates the city's LGBTQ+ community and promotes inclusivity and diversity. Other notable events include the Manchester Jazz Festival, the Manchester Literature Festival, and the Christmas markets held in the city centre. Manchester's culture is characterised by its creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of community. The city's industrial past has shaped its identity, and its vibrant arts, music, and sporting scenes continue to make it a cultural powerhouse in the UK. 

York, located in northeastern England, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage that dates to Roman times. Here are some key aspects of York's culture.  

History and Architecture: York is renowned for its well-preserved medieval city walls and its historic architecture. The centrepiece of the city is York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, which attracts visitors from around the world. The city's narrow, winding streets, known as "Snickelways," are lined with timber-framed houses, charming shops, and traditional pubs. The iconic Clifford's Tower, the medieval York Castle, and the historic Shambles, a picturesque street with overhanging timber-framed buildings, are among the city's notable landmarks.  

York has a strong Viking heritage, as it was once a major Viking settlement known as Jorvik. The Jorvik Viking Centre is a popular attraction that offers a glimpse into Viking life through interactive exhibits and reconstructed Viking streets. The annual Jorvik Viking Festival celebrates York's Viking history with reenactments, parades, and cultural events.  

York has inspired numerous writers and is associated with some notable literary works. The city was the birthplace of the poet W.H. Auden, and the Brontë sisters, who wrote classics such as "Jane Eyre" and "Wuthering Heights," spent time in York. The York Literature Festival is an annual event that celebrates literature and brings together local and international authors, poets, and storytellers. 

  Museums and Galleries: home to a variety of museums and galleries that showcase its history and cultural artefacts. The York Castle Museum provides a journey through the city's past, while the York Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of artworks, including paintings by renowned artists. The National Railway Museum, located in York, is the largest railway museum in the world and offers a fascinating look at the history of trains and railways. 

Festivals and Events hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year. The York Festival of Ideas is a multidisciplinary event that explores and celebrates ideas from various fields, including science, literature, and history. The York Food and Drink Festival showcases local and international culinary delights, while the York Christmas Festival transforms the city into a festive wonderland with markets, ice rinks, and carol concerts.  

6. Theatre and Performing Arts: York has a thriving performing arts scene. The Theatre Royal, one of the oldest continuously operating theatre's in the country, presents a diverse range of productions, including plays, musicals, and opera. The York Theatre Royal also hosts the annual York Mystery Plays, a theatrical tradition that dates to the Middle Ages. The city is also home to numerous independent theatres', comedy clubs, and music venues, offering a variety of performances throughout the year. York's culture is deeply rooted in its history, with a mix of Roman, Viking, and medieval influences. The city's architecture, literary connections, and lively arts scene contribute to its unique cultural identity, making it a captivating destination for locals and visitors alike. 

North south divide 

The division between the North and South of the United Kingdom has been a topic of discussion for many years. It refers to the perceived economic, social, and cultural differences between these two regions. While it is important to note that generalisations cannot capture the full complexity of any region, I can provide an overview of some key factors that have contributed to this divide.  

Economic Disparity Historically, the South, particularly the southeast, has been more prosperous than the North. London, as the capital and a global financial centre, attracts significant investment and has a highly developed service sector. Meanwhile, the North has experienced the decline of traditional industries such as coal mining, steel manufacturing, and shipbuilding, leading to higher unemployment rates and lower economic growth. 

Infrastructure Investment Critics argue that the South has received more investment in infrastructure projects compared to the North. This includes transportation networks, such as high-speed rail. which primarily benefits the South by improving connections to London. The perception is that inadequate infrastructure in the North hinders economic development and contributes to the divide. 

Political and Governance Factors Some argue that political decisions and governance structures have perpetuated the North-South divide. Centralisation of political power in London and the focus on the financial sector have been criticised for neglecting the needs of the North. Calls for greater devolution of power and resources to regional governments, such as the establishment of elected mayors in some northern cities, have emerged as a potential solution.  

Social and Cultural Differences There are also perceived social and cultural differences between the North and South. Stereotypically, the South is seen as more affluent, cosmopolitan, and liberal, while the North is often associated with working-class culture, industrial heritage, and a stronger sense of community. However, it is essential to recognize that these are broad generalisations and do not apply uniformly to all individuals or communities within these regions. Efforts have been made to address the North-South divide. For instance, the creation of "Northern Powerhouse" and "Midlands Engine" initiatives aims to promote investment and economic growth in these regions. However, bridging the divide is a complex task that requires long-term commitment, investment, and comprehensive strategies to address economic, social, and political factors. 

Below i have two sections of images, first being Rome, Italy and the second being United Kingdom. 

Throughout mine project i ran into many obstacles which delayed my images taking significantly. I decided to concentrate on the architectural side of culture looking into the materials and cultural differences between them each image is taken in a different area/town. 

Referencing  

20 facts about London’s culture (2020) London City Hall. Available at: https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/arts-and-culture/vision-and-strategy/20-facts-about-london%E2%80%99s-culture (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

About Us (2022) About Manchester. Available at: https://aboutmanchester.co.uk/about-us/ (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

About York (no date) Learn about York and its surrounding areas of beauty - 2Let Agency. Available at: https://www.2letagency.co.uk/guides/about-york/ (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Arts & culture in Manchester (no date) Visit Manchester. Available at: https://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/arts-and-culture (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Ray, T. (2020) 6 careers that combine your passion for travel and photography, Stoodnt. Available at: https://stoodnt.com/blog/careers-travel-photography/ (Accessed: 26 October 2023). 

Hales, S. (2022) City Guide: York, where the cobbles (almost) breathe roman and viking history, The Telegraph. Available at: https://britain-magazine.telegraph.co.uk/features/city-guide-york/?WT.mc_id=tmgoff_psc_ppc_dsa_catchall&gclid=Cj0KCQjwtJKqBhCaARIsAN_yS_lryQ2wFYuHo_QwTGeyUe3ETpHtNRcq9ThBvgmWn-lb12f2Vzs4XUYaAojxEALw_wcB (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Homestays, L. (2017) 20 facts about London’s culture - London homestays, London Homestays - We are London Homestays, a provider of homestay accommodation in London, UK. Available at: https://londonhomestays.com/20-facts-about-londons-culture/ (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

London (2023) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/London (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

London United Kingdom (no date) Culture Trip. Available at: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/england/london (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Manchester what’s on, entertainment, tickets and eating out guide (no date) Unlock Manchester Visitor Guide. Available at: https://unlockmanchester.com/culture (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Valenzuela, N. (2022) Travel photography with a different perspective, Fstoppers. Available at: https://fstoppers.com/architecture/travel-photography-different-perspective-619389 (Accessed: 02 November 2023). 

Williams, R.J. (2020) Manchester: History of the present, Places Journal. Available at: https://placesjournal.org/article/manchester-after-engels/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwtJKqBhCaARIsAN_yS_n8Xbg9aSJolowmi2aceXRGol7Y-hiTnly1llwltmQyDYPZu-4GktcaAlWNEALw_wcB&cn-reloaded=1 (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

York (2023) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/York-England (Accessed: 03 November 2023). 

Image referancing  

Cityscapes (no date) Nicco Valenzuela - Photographer. Available at: https://www.niccovalenzuela.com/gallery/project-two-ky966-65tdb (Accessed: 02 November 2023).