Huddersfield Employability blog: Joseph Womersley
Introduce yourself:
Good afternoon, my name is Joseph Womersley I am currently in my 3rd year studying drama. As I am in my final year I have begun to focus on life after uni and gaining as much experience before I leave. To do this in the acting world you need to keep your portfolio up to date along with other documents.
What did you use the HEF for?
I used the funding to pay for professional headshots and model shots.
What was the value in this activity?
This makes my acting CV stand out as I have a wide variety of shots to choose from. But also with castings there are certain jobs where they expect a certain type of photograph which I now have plenty of.
How did it help you to develop?
After receiving the photo shoots, I have gone on to do acting work on a number of TV sets and film sets including ‘Wanderlust’ and Channel 4's ‘No offence’. Also I have secured modelling work for modelling swimwear with a nationally recognised brand.
How did it affect your future employment opportunities or ideas?
As I am gaining experience on TV and film sets this makes my CV more appealing for casting directors getting me auditions as well as a constant flow of SA work and walk on roles.
What will you do as a result of this activity?
As I am in my 3rd year I began to apply for a London based agency, so I can secure bigger roles, so with the photo shoot it has kept my head shots up to date and kept my CV fresh.
Thinking about this experience, what advice would you give to other students?
I would recommend students to go for opportunities even if there is a cost as you can get support to pay for the activity. And if you are wanting to become an actor it is essential to have professional head shots so the casting directors can place you in the role.