Nikon Captures A Rising Star: Nikon Foundation Winner Announced
May 2011, Nikon UK: Nikon UK is pleased to announce that Melissa Jenkins from Bridgend College, Wales, has been crowned the winner of the Nikon Foundation student photography competition.
The Nikon Foundation is an initiative that aims to support and celebrate the work of young photographers looking to break into the industry. The competition received hundreds of entries, from which 10 of the best final year student photographers were shortlisted for the position as paid photographer’s assistant; working alongside celebrity and fashion photographer, John Wright for a period of three months.
From here each of the 10 candidates were invited back for an interview with John and members of the judging panel which included Russ O’Connell, Photo Director (Q), Warren Jackson, Art Director (GQ), James Mullinger, Photographic Director (GQ) and James Banfield, Imaging Support and Training Manager (Nikon). Candidates were grilled by John and the judges on their work, career aspirations and most importantly, their plans of how to launch themselves as a professional photographer.
John Wright commented: “I was amazed at the high standard of entries and am grateful to everyone for putting in the time and effort to enter, however it was Melissa’s work that really stood out for me. It wasn’t just the high standard of her images but also her appreciation of photography as a business and understanding for the need to promote your work via multiple platforms. I think she will fit well into my team and I hope that I can teach her something valuable.”
Melissa wins a three month paid placement with John Wright, starting this summer, plus £3000 towards living expenses in London and £4000 worth of Nikon professional equipment.
Jeremy Gilbert: “The competition was a great success and we’re delighted to be working with John to offer such a fantastic prize. We hope Melissa makes the most of the opportunity and absorb as much as she can with John whilst continuing to shoot fantastic images with her new Nikon equipment!”
Melissa’s portfolio is available to view at www.nikonfoundation.co.uk/EnterNow.aspx
