Every year, the Degree Show at Edinburgh College of Art is a date not to miss in the arts calendar of the city. This year’s show just finished but we take a look at some of the student work that caught our eye.
Kate Livingstone – Masters of Fine Art MFA
Menzie Zhang – Fashion BA
Kirsti Beautyman – Illustration BA
Dorothy Jackson – Combined Studies BA
Performance Costume BA
Hugo Maximillian Ross – MAFA
Rachel Millar – Graphic Design BA
Photography is undoubtedly one of the most common outdoor hobbies worldwide. However, it isn’t uncommon for many skilled photographers to turn their hobby into a source of income. According to IBISWorld, America’s photography industry’s market size by revenue alone is $11.5 billion as of 2022. Many photography genres may appeal to you, whether you want to pursue a full-time career or simply take up a worthwhile pastime. Here are some of the top photography genres you should know about.
Travel photography is definitely worth considering if you have a lot of wanderlust and are skilled with a camera. It is one of the broadest subcategories of people photography, involving the capture of life in other areas of the world. Travel photography is well-known for drawing inspiration from several different types of photography. For instance, you may set out to capture people and their lifestyles when you visit one area. However, you may notice and capture several landscapes and other elements of the natural world, like wildlife in that location that is picture-worthy. A good travel photographer perfects the art of taking excellent photographs when visiting new cities. These photographs typically capture the striking differences and similarities between people worldwide, making viewers feel more connected to and aware of how others live.
The aerial photography genre is one of the fastest-growing photography fields facilitated by modern technology. Indeed, Allied Market Research estimates that the global aerial photography market was worth $2.26 billion in 2020 and will reach $8.52 billion by 2030. Admittedly, aerial photographs have been around as long as cameras and manned flights have been. However, aerial photography’s increasing popularity in recent times is due to the advent of high-quality drones. Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles that capture views from above and give photographers different perspective shots. In the US, UK, and many other nations, you need a license before you can legally fly a drone. They are being used to capture everything, from real estate to wildlife. Top-notch drones such as the DJI Matrice 30 series are used by search and rescue personnel to locate missing persons in foliage. Therefore, the perspective drones offer in aerial photography comes in handy for aesthetic and life-saving purposes alike.
Wedding photography is, without a doubt, one of the most popular genres out there. Many people pay for professional photography only once in their lives, and that time is likely to be their wedding day. As such, wedding photography is in very high demand worldwide. As a career, being a professional wedding photographer will entail taking a wide range of photos in various settings and groups. The role is pretty intense since there is a lot of pressure to take your best shot on the first attempt because you may not get a second chance in many scenarios. The emphasis is on taking candid photographs that the family will treasure for their lifetime. Besides being quick on your feet, you should also be a fairly good salesperson and must be able to handle customer service easily.
Furthermore, you must be adaptable, ready to shoot indoors during dimly lit dances and receptions and outdoors on sunny days. Finally, the couples you photograph will expect a lot of direction from you when posing. Therefore, you must be confident and capable of clear communication with the bride and groom. 2020 was perhaps the worst time to be a wedding photographer since the pandemic reportedly cut weddings by more than 50%. However, the wedding photography niche is picking up fast post-lockdown, so now is the perfect time to enter the industry.
Portrait photography, also known as portraiture, intends to capture the moods and personalities of groups and individuals. Portrait images may be posed or candid, full-body, or close-ups. However, the common constant is that the subject’s eyes and face are usually in focus. Portrait photographers rely heavily on lighting and backdrop to convey the right tone and emotions. In addition, you must make your clients feel as comfortable as possible to get natural expressions.
There is no shortage of people that need portrait photography services, so it is one of the most profitable genres worth considering as a career.Everyday patrons need portrait photos for every phase of life, so you can expect to take a lot of maternity and newborn, high school senior portraits, and general family photographs. You will also take several corporate portraits for employees that need to update their headshots for publicity materials and websites. Furthermore, professional and aspiring models need updated portfolios with current pictures to market themselves for jobs and agencies. Consequently, portrait photography is an excellent starting point for all professional photographers. A great portfolio of high-quality shots will generate more contracts, and you will also get several gigs from word-of-mouth marketing.
There is no denying that great product photography is important for convincing potential clients to make purchases. Indeed, an estimated 90% of buyers say that photo quality is the most important factor they consider when purchasing online. As such, product photography is a mainstay of modern-day advertising, and you can position yourself for great success in this niche with the right strategies. One of the best things about product photography is that it covers a lot of ground. For instance, you can focus on the sub-niche of jewelry to make a lot of cash. Many jewelry dealers are eager to hire professional photographers because their products require the right amount of creativity to attract clients through images. Alternatively, you can specialize in food photography for restaurants that need to advertise meals and create menus.
Product photos are used for labels, packaging, and print and online catalogs, so there is a high need for quality. Consequently, the majority of product photography is done in studios that permit careful control of lighting, shadows, and backgrounds. As a product photographer, you may lose significant cash to studio rentals, so invest in creating a personal photography studio on a budget.
Fashion photography is perhaps the most glamorous photography genre, but it is sadly among the most difficult to break into. Fashion photographers usually reside in the design districts of Paris, Milan, and New York, documenting the trendiest runway styles and taking cover shots for leading industry publications. However, they work in many other locations, including studios, open fields, and city streets. Fashion photographers use many skills portrait photographers are known for. For example, this job focuses on the models, so a lot of your time will be spent posing and directing them to get the desired shots. As such, you must have good teamwork and communication skills to effectively collaborate with models, creative directors, wardrobe specialists, makeup artists, and many other professionals.
Many people take pictures of buildings as a fun hobby, but others have made entire careers out of it. Architectural photographers work as freelancers or are employed by agencies to capture the essence of structures and buildings from their commencement to completion. You will capture details like the building’s interiors and exterior and any subtle elements that make the building’s design outstanding. Also, architectural photography needs special equipment and techniques to reduce distortion and perspective issues that are easy to spot from a building’s right angles.
Real estate photography is a great subdivision of architectural photography. Realtors always require top-notch photographs, especially in today’s market, where 87% of home buyers rely on photographs to make their decisions. Therefore, realtors are willing to pay top dollar for quality professional photographs, particularly in the high-end market.
Marie Varley is an Irish artist running a small screenprinting business, creating prints that explore national identity and how this has been celebrated in the past particularly through the form of ephemera such as postage stamps and matchboxes. We interviewed Marie to find out more about her education, love for print and her recent move from Edinburgh to Dublin.
When did your interest in visual arts begin?
That’s a difficult one to pinpoint but for as long as I can remember I have always been completely obsessed with colour and the tactility of paint. As a child, most visits to friends’ houses involved pulling out the poster paints and brushes! In secondary school I first discovered modern artists such as Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock whose work and concepts really resonated with me and the decision to go to art college was firmly made.
Why did you decide to focus on screenprinting in particular?
Throughout the four years I spent developing my practice at LSAD, my work always dealt with found imagery and in particular imagery which represented national identity. In one way or another these themes always entered my work and in my final year I began looking at postage stamps, disassembling the imagery and what the intended meanings were for the individual countries. My degree is in Fine Art Painting however as the imagery in postage stamps was originally printed I wanted to stay true to my source material by utilizing a printmaking technique. Having briefly dipped my feet in the screen printing process during a module in my second year, I was familiar with the properties of screen printing and loved the flatness of print in contrast with the oiliness of paint. I had about 6 months to master the art of screen printing and thanks to the amazing – and patient – printmaking technicians at LSAD I managed to screenprint my whole Degree show! My degree show pieces were a mix of several layers of print upon paint. The show consisted of 8 pieces which measured 2 metres x 1 metre and I absolutely loved making them.
Please tell us a little bit more about your interest in national identity and ephemera.
For me it is fascinating to gain an insight into the social context of a country by the imagery used in the 2.5cm x 2cm space of a postage stamp. Countries had varying messages at different times. One stamp in particular, a German DDR stamp from 1981 which depicted a whimsical plug character had quite a powerful message. The stamp reads “Rationelle Energie Anwendung” (translating to Rational Use of Energy) to support the German governments recently introduced energy efficiency policy, at a time in which the country had a serious concern about energy waste. It is difficult to imagine a postage stamp holding this much communicational power these days but in a time before the internet, these ephemera were really quite powerful. Similarly a piece which I created for my Degree show “Kenya” which included a series of reproduced Kenyan stamps from the 1950’s with safari animal illustrations can seem quite stereotypical. With stamp collecting a hobby amongst many and air travel was a luxury, this was a way of visually communicating the identity of a country.
What are your plans for the upcoming months?
I am working towards a solo show so the next few months will be a busy few in the studio. I am hoping to complete a series of prints based on matchboxes from the 1950’s. I have 6 separate images already printed and I am hoping to print at least another 4 or 5 new editions. My prints have recently been stocked on the super online print shop Department Store based in London so that’s quite exciting!
You’ve recently moved to Dublin from Edinburgh. How do you compare the creative ‘scene’ in these two cities?
The creative scene is pretty exciting in Dublin at the moment. In a city only just about recovering from the recession, artists and creatives have set up studios in unused shops and vacant warehouses. The studio where I make my prints for example is a small studio set up by Kim Willoughby in 2011 as the first affordable pay-as-you-go screenprinting studio in Dublin. This allows for a wide range of studio users where fine artists work alongside graphic designers and Illustrators alike.
I absolutely loved the three years I spent in Edinburgh! Surrounded by hugely talented and professional artists at Edinburgh Printmakers where I was a member was hugely beneficial for me. I learned invaluable tricks of the trade and I learnt a lot about artist and gallery relationships. The Edinburgh creative scene has a real community spirit which I thought was unique. Just before I moved to Dublin last year I attended the Hidden Door arts festival, a non profit, volunteer run arts festival which took place in an abandoned spaces on King Stable’s Road. Not long before that I took part in a Creative Pop-Up market in nightclubs which were empty during the day. There is a real ‘anything is possible’ attitude in the Edinburgh Creative scene.
Circulation is the flow of blood throughout your body, and it is important for your overall health. Poor circulation can increase the risk of a range of health problems, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. Understanding the symptoms of poor circulation, the potential causes, and how to improve it is key to maintaining your health.
In this article, we will look at the importance of proper circulation, as well as the symptoms, causes, and solutions related to poor circulation. With the right lifestyle changes, you can improve your circulation and take control of your health.
Poor circulation can often be difficult to detect, but there are a few common signs you should be aware of. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be an indication that your circulation needs improvement. Cold hands and feet, frequent cramps in the legs and feet, and changes in skin color are all signs of poor circulation. You may also notice that bruises take longer to heal than usual, or that you get tired more easily when doing physical activities. Additionally, you may experience numbness or tingling in your extremities due to a lack of circulation. If these symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a doctor to discuss your options for improving your circulation.
This dentist who does dental veneers in Redwood City CA also adds that Poor blood circulation can negatively impact dental health by reducing the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the gums and teeth. This can lead to weakened gums, making them more susceptible to infections and gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis. Reduced circulation can also impair the healing process after dental procedures, increase the risk of tooth decay, and contribute to dry mouth, which further increases the risk of cavities. Maintaining good circulation is crucial for overall oral health and the prevention of dental issues.
A healthy diet and regular physical activity are two of the best things you can do to improve your circulation. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and lean proteins will keep your body and blood vessels functioning properly.
Exercise, meanwhile, helps stimulate blood flow and oxygenation, and can help reduce the risk of developing blood vessel problems. In addition to helping improve circulation, regular exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve your overall health. If you’re not used to exercising, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
Making simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve the circulation in your body, allowing you to enjoy better overall health. One great way to improve your circulation is to stay active by walking, jogging, or doing other types of exercise. Exercise helps get your blood pumping and can also reduce stress, which can have a positive effect on your circulation.
Staying hydrated is also important for maintaining healthy circulation. Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, which can cause your blood vessels to constrict and make it difficult for them to move oxygen and other essential nutrients. Additionally, avoiding smoking and limiting your alcohol intake are also beneficial lifestyle changes that can help improve your circulation. A balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is also beneficial for your circulation. Eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, sardines, and walnuts, can also help promote healthy circulation.
If you have been experiencing the symptoms of poor circulation for an extended period of time, it is advisable to seek professional medical advice from Utah vein specialists. You should make an appointment with a doctor if you are experiencing extreme pain, tenderness, or a continuous tingling sensation in your limbs. These symptoms can be indicative of a more serious underlying health issue that should be addressed. If you have diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor about how circulation can impact your health.
Your doctor may be able to assess your condition and provide further treatment options to improve your circulation. They may suggest lifestyle changes, such as increasing exercise, as well as prescribing medications to help with your symptoms. A professional can also provide guidance on the best way to monitor your circulation and ensure that any underlying issues are being addressed.
If you’re suffering from symptoms of poor circulation, there are a few medical treatments you could consider. Depending on the underlying cause of your circulation problem, your doctor might recommend blood thinners, such as warfarin, to reduce your risk of blood clots.
If you have a blockage in your arteries, you may need to undergo a procedure to open them up. Your doctor might also suggest lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and increasing your physical activity, to help with your circulation. Additionally, you may be prescribed medications to improve your blood flow.
If your symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and medication, your doctor may suggest surgery as a last resort. For example, if you have a blocked artery, you might need to undergo a procedure called an endarterectomy. This is a procedure used to remove the buildup of plaque from your arteries. Talk to your doctor to find out which treatments are best for you.
Having good circulation is essential for our overall health. Poor circulation can lead to a range of symptoms, from tiredness and muscle pain to more serious conditions like stroke or heart attack. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to improve our circulation, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising.
Additionally, there are numerous treatments available to help those with more serious circulatory issues, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and even surgery. Improving circulation is essential for good health. By understanding its significance and taking appropriate measures, we can maintain our well-being and remain healthy for a long time.
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Lack of sleep can lead to issues such as fatigue, impaired concentration, lack of energy and irritability. Fortunately, there are habits and practices that can be developed and implemented to help improve the quality of sleep. In this article, we will cover the top habits to ensure a better night’s sleep, from setting sleep goals and planning a routine to making changes to your sleep environment. We’ll also discuss the importance of certain foods and drinks to improve sleep quality. By following the advice in this article, you will be more likely to get the restful night’s sleep you need to feel refreshed and energized.
Getting an adequate amount of sleep is essential for good physical and mental health, but unfortunately, many of us fail to get enough rest each night. Not getting enough sleep can lead to a number of issues, including difficulty concentrating, lack of energy, irritability, and a weakened immune system. It can even increase your risk of developing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. With so much at stake, it’s important to focus on getting a good night’s sleep.
Making small changes to your nightly routine can help you get a better night’s sleep. The key is to establish a regular bedtime and stick to it. Going to bed at the same time every night will help your body adjust and prepare for sleep. If you find it difficult to sleep, try doing something calming before bedtime like reading a book or taking a warm bath.
Avoiding caffeine and alcohol late at night can also help you sleep better. Caffeine can keep you awake and disrupt your sleep, while alcohol can cause sleep disruptions and even lead to headaches and dehydration. Aim to limit your caffeine intake after noon and avoid drinking alcohol within three hours of bedtime. Also, make sure you’re getting regular exercise. Exercise earlier in the day can help you sleep better at night.
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for good health, yet many of us struggle to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. To achieve this goal, setting sleep goals and planning a routine is key. Creating a sleep schedule and sticking to it can help you get in the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, which your body will soon learn to anticipate.
A sleep schedule helps to regulate your body’s natural circadian rhythm, allowing you to feel more alert during the day and sleepy at night. Additionally, setting sleep goals allows you to keep track of your progress and identify areas where you may need to make adjustments.
For example, if you are having trouble falling asleep, you may need to adjust your bedtime routine, or reduce your caffeine intake. By setting concrete goals for improving your sleep quality and following a routine, you can take steps toward a healthier and more restful life.
Creating a comfortable sleep environment is essential for better sleep. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in blackout curtains or shades to keep out any light. Additionally, use a white noise machine or fan to block out any outside noise. Make sure your mattress is supportive and comfortable. If you have an old mattress, consider replacing it with a new one that offers better support. Avoid watching television or using electronic devices in your bedroom before going to bed. The blue light emitted from screens has been proven to disrupt sleep. You should also keep any work-related items out of your bedroom. Make it a habit to relax and unwind in your bedroom before going to bed.
When it comes to improving sleep quality, what you eat and drink can be just as important as establishing a sleep schedule and making changes to your sleep environment. Eating certain nutrient-rich foods that contain melatonin, tryptophan, and other sleep-inducing compounds can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Foods such as tart cherries, chamomile tea, and oatmeal can be beneficial for sleep. Avoiding heavy meals late at night and foods that contain caffeine can also help improve sleep quality. Drinking plenty of water during the day can also be beneficial for better sleep. Being mindful of what you’re consuming before going to bed can make a big difference in getting a good night’s rest.
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for our overall wellbeing, and with the right habits and lifestyle choices it’s possible to improve the quality of your rest. Establishing sleep goals, setting a regular sleep routine, and creating a comfortable and peaceful sleep environment are all important steps that can help improve your sleep. St George massage can also ensure a better night’s sleep by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, allowing you to fall asleep more easily. By following these simple habits, you can ensure a better quality of sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
