A TAFE NSW photography graduate from the Central West is achieving success internationally, selling her wildlife photos to visual artists across the world.

Bernadette Edwards’ working life had been spent in the hospitality industry and, prior to studying at TAFE NSW, she had never used a professional-grade camera.

“When my children left home in 2019 and I became an ‘empty nester’ I realised I needed something to fill my time. I wanted to explore a new avenue to boost my skills and confidence, de-compress, and help my mental health,” Ms Edwards said.

“My friend sold me her second-hand camera and that ignited my new passion for photography. I decided I’d make a go of it and study photography at TAFE NSW, so I could become more proficient and open my own business.”

Ms Edwards enrolled in the TAFE NSW Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging and began learning a broad new array of practical and theoretical skills.

“From camera settings and light to composition and different genres – my studies gave me confidence that I could make it in this career,” she said. “The course also gave me the basic business skills I needed to launch my online store and start making a living out of this new skillset.”

As a wildlife photography specialist, Ms Edwards has developed a portfolio of high-quality photos, particularly of birds, which she sells through her business.

“Some of my biggest clients are artists overseas and here in Australia who buy my photos and use them as references for their paintings,” she said.

“It gives me a huge sense of pride to now be selling my work internationally. It’s fascinating to see how the artists can take my image and use it to come up with something that’s stunning in their own work.

“Nature is so humbling and inspiring, and to shoot photos of animals in action makes me feel good. I’m not a naturally confident person, but to be able to work in nature and succeed as a photographer is helping build my self-esteem.”

Design and Photo Media Teacher Alina Vermeer said studying photography at TAFE NSW opens doors into new career avenues.

“TAFE NSW’s Certificate IV in Photography and Digital Imaging provides our students with the practical skills they need to broaden their knowledge and kickstart their photographic career,” Ms Vermeer said.

“Bernadette’s success in starting her business is recognition of her talent and hard work and shows how studying here can provide you with the skills to enjoy a successful career as a professional photographer.

“To see Bernadette’s images gain international attention reinforces how TAFE NSW can help you harness your natural talent and enhance your skills to help you achieve your professional goals.”

For Ms Edwards, her career change has broadened her horizons.

“It’s a massive achievement for me to go from not having any photographic skills to now have other people buy and use my work for exhibitions and their own artworks,” she said.

“I have no regrets about making this career change and studying at TAFE NSW. Photography can help you find a new path you hadn’t considered, and you never know where it will take you.”

Media contact: Rob Virtue, Communications Specialist, rob.virtue@tafensw.edu.au