Dave Ward has always been fascinated by photography and it encompasses both his love for science and creativity. Dave used to work as a medical photographer and although there was little room for creativity, the training has stood Dave in good stead. Dave also worked as a forensic photographer and even found a hidden fingerprint, using some specialist UV lighting techniques, which the fingerprint team had been unable to see.
Now a successful commercial photographer, Dave says that the best advice he was given is to "Just keep in there" as it takes a long time to become established and for commercial clients to trust you. "You need to maintain enthusiasm and keep building a better folio. You also need to market yourself well. Get on the phone (most photographers don't do this), network (I don't do this!) and keep up momentum." Lighting is Dave's greatest inspiration, but the reality of being self employed is that you spend a lot of time at your desk instead of behind a camera.
Dave feels that his BIPP membership gives clients more confidence and he also makes good use of the publicity he has received from his successes in the BIPP competitions. The qualification process is also useful as it concentrates your mind on producing an excellent panel of work. In 2007 Dave's panel was judged the best from the 150 or so licentiate candidates, something he is very proud of. "I applied the same rule to the panel as I do with my clients, which is; do your very best, and then improve it! I may not reach this dizzy expectation I set myself but it seems a good policy anyway."
Visit www.photographybyward.co.uk
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