Kelsey Schwartz, a senior in the Photo- and Lens- Based Design program, has the goal “to be able to raise a family, while feeling fulfilled in a creative career.” In such a busy, noisy world, this goal might seem daunting. But in her internship working for a successful freelance photographer, Kelsey learned how this could be possible for her, as well as many valuable skills.
“I chose to intern with Trisha because of her unique ability to work for big clients from home,” says Schwartz. “I was able to assist her in producing work for clients such as T-Mobile, Rice Krispies, Heinz Ketchup, Alka Seltzer, Naked Juice, and more.”
The digital industry is rapidly changing year to year, meaning new graduates need applicable skills that sometimes simply don’t come from the classroom. These days, photographers aren’t only taking pictures. “Working for Trisha has definitely opened my eyes to the possibilities of stop motion and video. This is such a valuable skill, because more and more clients expect photographers to have knowledge of videography. I feel much more confident in producing motion content now.”
The internship experience was valuable for Schwartz in turning hopes of a creative and fulfilling career into something familiar and attainable. “This experience has broadened my goal for my earnings as a professional photographer. I've seen that it is possible to make not only a good living, but a GREAT living in a creative field. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but I know that it is possible. My goal is to graduate in April, and have the organization to get on my feet and start working freelance jobs. I learned a lot about self-confidence and how to value the work you do.”
Besides putting her foot into the real-world industry of lens- based design, Schwartz saw firsthand how a fulfilling work life and happy family met. “Trisha was a great example. She and her husband sacrifice and work together in order to have a lifestyle they both love. I got to see first-hand how they involve their preschooler in the studio.”
For many, a successful career and joyful time with family don’t seem compatible, but for Schwartz this internship testified the opposite. Through observing and participating in the work of a thriving professional, she was able to begin her journey in the industry and turn her desires and aspirations into reality.