Chard project gives photographer News experience (From This is The West Country)

Chard project gives photographer News experience

8:40am Tuesday 14th February 2012 in Somerset By Jamie Brooks

A PHOTOGRAPHER has snapped up some invaluable experience with the News – thanks to the Working All Together in Chard (WATCH) project.

WATCH aims to reach out to socially isolated adults and provide them with new skills – and attempt to break down barriers in mental health.

Ian Goddard visited for a two-day placement last month, the first of ten the group is organising as part of the Somerset County Council Creative Industries Development Scheme.

On his first day Ian joined the editorial team, discussing how photos were used with news stories. He also took pictures of the News offices, posting them to his Flickr account.

The following week Ian shadowed photographer Geoff Hall, going to jobs across South Somerset and taking his own pictures.

Ian said: “It was a very positive experience – the main thing was it gave me a lot of confidence. I learnt quite a lot technically from Geoff, as well.”

The pair also visited the WATCH project at the Young People’s Centre, to take pictures of activities there.

WATCH co-ordinator Julie Matthews said: “The project is so pleased the News took the time to offer us this placement – and we would like to thank them.

“We hope this first placement will break down the barriers in mental health and be a doorway for other members to follow in Ian’s footsteps. We are proud of his efforts and achievements.”

The group is now looking for a local art project to take on a couple of placements through February - call Julie on 07506-238540 for details.