With a background in the fashion industry as a buyer and then as a producer in film and television, I was exposed to the world of styling and felt drawn to the industry.
Keen to make a styling career, I chose the Professional Photo, Film, TV & Personal Stylist’s Course with the Australian College of Professional Styling. Learning was self-paced and this was a huge benefit for me as it allowed me to fully absorb the information before moving on to the next tutorial. Studying by correspondence also meant that I could seamlessly integrate the course into my lifestyle.
I was impressed with the broad range of topics covering the A-Z of styling. The tutorials were detailed, current and relevant going into great detail of what is involved in the styling industry without glamorising it. Not only was the creative, theoretical and practical side covered but so too was the business side, giving me a solid foundation to establish myself in the industry.
At the beginning of my studies, I was not completely sure what area of styling I wanted to focus on but the course gave me the clarity and guidance I needed to work out what I loved the most and what my strengths were. The personal tutor coaching and feedback was an amazing and great support and any question I had was answered thoroughly.
I would have not believed that by the end of my studies I would be producing, directing and styling my own photo shoots. However, the course has given me the knowledge, skills and confidence to be able to do just that. I have also received positive feedback from peers in the industry, which has been very encouraging.
I feel I have grown a lot by the experience of undertaking the course and I finally understand what is meant when a successful person’s career advice is “do something that you’re passionate about”. It certainly makes a difference and that’s what I am now doing!
Since graduating, I have set up my own business as a freelance stylist. I am producing and styling a fashion film, which is currently in pre-production and I am continuing to do more tests to develop my portfolio. I am also assisting well-known, established Melbourne stylist, Kate Carnegie and we are working predominantly on fashion editorials. The experience has been amazing and to be in the company of key creatives in the industry is inspiring. In addition to this, I have just organised a team to style comp cards for various modelling agencies.
I have loved every moment of the course and would highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in this field of work.
Thank you again to my tutor and the team at the College.