Bath College students join press photographers for visit from the Archbishop of Canterbury

Two students from Bath College were invited to join press photographers and capture a visit from the Archbishop of Canterbury on film.
 
Sebastian Roberts, 18, and Louise Wakeham, 17, are both studying Level 3 photography and volunteered to cover the archbishop’s visit to Bath Abbey on November 9.
 
The archbishop visited for a talk on the Footprint Project– a £19.3 million project to stabilise the ground beneath the abbey floor and heat the abbey using energy from Bath’s famous hot springs.
 
In the afternoon, he led a special Eucharist service attended by 800 people with singing from the abbey’s choir of boys and girls, as well as local schoolchildren.
 

Sebastian and Louise were given passes to attend the event along with Bath College photo technician Joseph Wooltorton, who was on hand to offer advice.
 
They gained a valuable insight into what it’s like to cover a big event, the chance to snap pictures for their portfolios, and an opportunity to network with professional photographers.
 
Louise, from Chippenham, Wiltshire, said: “Quite a few people were taking photographs, including The Times Magazine, so it gave us a chance to talk to them.
 
“You have to be quick to take a shot, especially when you’re shooting in manual mode, you don’t get second chances.
 
“Joe came down with us for the day and he was with us to give us some pointers. It was a busy day, but a great learning experience. It gave us an insight into what the photography business is like.”
 

Sebastian, from Radstock, Somerset, said: “It was quite nerve-wracking and it was a very big responsibility.
 
“I enjoy anything photography-related. Being a photographer makes you appreciate everything that’s around you. This course at Bath College is introducing me to a huge array of different options: lifestyle, fine art, sport, portraiture and marketing.
 
“I like the practical side of the course and going out to experiment, because experiments are the things you learn from.”
 
Arran Hodgson, Photography Course Leader at Bath College said: “We have lots of live experiences on the photography course.
 
“These opportunities give our students a taste of what it’s like to work as photographers and pick up tips from the professionals.”
 
For information about photography courses at Bath College click here.