My academic background includes an Art Foundation (awarded merit) and a BA (Hons) in Photography at Southampton Solent University (awarded first class of the second degree) Andreas Gursky and his focus on humans and their relationship with the environment has inspired me to make informed decisions on specific projects and briefs like 'Photography and the City.' After completing my studies, I spent a year at sea working as a professional photographer aboard a cruise ship, which gave me a realistic outlook as a working photographer. I learned how to collaborate with photographers to produce portraits and compose works of art for international customers. My experience additionally allowed me to investigate my practice in a professional environment, where I learned how commercial photography played a role in marketing. Furthermore, travelling and working in multiple countries has helped me contextualize my education, and broadened my perception of the ‘art world’ in different cultures.