Recently, former UCW BA Photography student Josh Lomen returned to deliver a guest lecture for Weston College’s Level 3 Photography students, sharing his journey into higher education and the opportunities his studies at University Centre Weston have provided him. Now working as a documentary landscape photographer, Josh focuses on capturing and communicating changes within local environments. He discovered this specialism during his degree at UCW, where he experimented with a range of media practices, gradually building his portfolio and refining a distinctive personal style.
During the session, Josh presented his work and spoke about the opportunities available through studying photography at UCW, where the subject is now taught within the Film and Media Arts Production, BA (Hons) degree. His achievements include receiving several awards, being featured in publications and exhibitions, and connecting with well-known photographers, providing valuable opportunities to promote his work. Hearing about these experiences gave Weston College students an inspiring insight into how higher education can open doors to diverse creative pathways, strengthen portfolios, and help build professional networks within the industry.
Josh also discussed key areas of study within the degree, including portfolio development, website design, and experimentation across different media practices. He highlighted the course’s strong emphasis on independence and creativity, including opportunities for students to develop their own photography award concepts — reflecting UCW’s innovative and industry-focused approach to learning.
The guest lecture provided Level 3 Photography students with an invaluable real-world perspective on progressing from further education into university-level study. By sharing his personal journey from student to award-winning photographer, Josh gave genuine insight into the experimentation, resilience, and commitment required to succeed within a creative industry. His reflections on developing his own style particularly reinforced the importance of curiosity and persistence, resonating strongly with students as they begin shaping their own creative identities.
Josh’s success demonstrated the potential outcomes of pursuing a Photography degree at UCW. His insight into the course content showcased the breadth of skills students can develop throughout their studies, encouraging students to think ambitiously about their futures. Students left the session with a clearer understanding of how to build a professional portfolio and establish meaningful industry connections.
Sam Brooks, Photography Lecturer at University Centre Weston, commented: “Our photography community across North Somerset, Bristol, and the wider region continues to grow each year, and it’s always inspiring to welcome alumni back to share their experiences with current students. The degree course gives students the opportunity to develop strong technical, research, and professional skills, ensuring they graduate well-prepared for careers within the creative industries.”
A huge thank you to Josh for returning to inspire Weston College’s Level 3 Photography students and for sharing valuable insight into both the industry and the opportunities available through studying photography at UCW.
