Photography student inspired by Canteen

Photography student, Megan Cameron, was inspired to work with Canteen on a project to photograph teenagers with cancer, by using the new technology tintype process. Megan lost a best friend to cancer early this year, which sparked her interest in the project.

"It was something I really struggled to deal with, and I felt that creating photography around the subject would help my grieving, and help me move forward," says Megan.

Megan thought that if she could take part in a project that portrayed real life struggles with cancer, she could increase awareness around the beauty and uniqueness of young teenagers who are currently living with cancer.

"I have a huge amount of respect for young people in this situation and I find their strength and positivity really inspiring."

Megan chose to work with Canteen, as it is a great opportunity to work with such a motivating organisation. Canteen helped Megan to get in contact with a number of amazing individuals and without their help Megan's project would not have been as successful.

Megan chose to use the tintype process of photography, as she has always had a keen interest in old photographic processes. The process of tintype was popular during the civil war, as it involves a direct positive image which is printed onto sheets of blackened metal. Because it's a one-off photo, that means it cannot be replicated, and therefore is original and unique.
Says Megan, "I would like to continue using this process and learning other old photographic processes, as I have really enjoyed working with young people with cancer, and hope to carry on with it in the future."

Megan's passion in the Design and Visual Arts industry is apparent in the quality of her work. With talented young minds such as Megan's, the photography industry looks to be in safe hands.

Many more graduate students will have the chance to showcase their hard work and creative ideas at Gradfest 2012. Gradfest 2012 brings together the very best work by our Creative Industries and Business graduates. Get a new perspective as we celebrate the creative minds of the future. Be inspired by fresh talent, see new ideas in action and watch where the industry is heading.

To see more of what Unitec's graduate students have to offer come along to Gradfest opening night TONIGHT, 29 November.

For more information and the full programme of events for Gradfest 2012 go to http://www.unitec.ac.nz/gradfest.

© Scoop Media