Wajeeda Yusuf
Course: HNC Photography
We popped over to the Photo.N photographic exhibition at the LBC Depot this May and spoke to adult learner Hannah who had some of her fantastic photography featured.
Why did you pick the course?
“I was working long hours and travelling a lot working in fashion marketing which meant a lot of time away from my little boy. I had been working as a photographer as a sideline but decided it was time to gain more skills so I could launch my own studio.”
Why Leicester College?
“I needed to continue to work whilst developing my photography, so it was important I chose a course that suited my schedule. I initially did a part-time short course in studio lighting at Leicester College. I really loved the team, teachers and facilities at the College and was eventually convinced to complete an HNC in Photography. As it was part-time and at night, I didn’t have to quit my job or take a pay cut.”
What was your inspiration behind the photographs in the exhibition?
“I have been through a challenging time over the last two years and had some amazing female friends who encouraged and supported me throughout. I wanted to explore ideas of the divine feminine healing our planet, and to showcase the different facets of strong women.”
Which image did you enjoy photographing?
*Deliberates with difficulty*
“I found out that the Great Central Railway is closed on some days and there would be no trains running. We headed out there with smoke grenades to enhance the backdrop. It was slightly adrenaline fuelled, although we knew no trains were due, there was always a ‘what if?’”
How do you choose your edit?
“I wanted the women to look strong and feminine but not aggressive. I stuck to this criteria while choosing the images.”
Favourite image:
“My favourite image is of Tish who was pregnant at the time. She really appreciated the opportunity to capture her pregnancy, and I feel the image encapsulates feminine strength.”
Follow Hannah on Instagram: @hannahbodsworth
Check out more of Hannah’s work here: http://hannahbodsworth.com/
Main image captured by Peter Fothergill
See photography courses: https://leicestercollege.ac.uk/courses/subjects/video-and-photography/
