Spotlight on Talent – Sindy Weals

Studied: HNC and HND Diploma in Photography, BA Hons Photography
Progression: Freelance Photographer

Sindy’s higher education journey has seen her completing official portrait commissions for two Walsall Mayors and producing images for the NHS.  In addition to coming away with a full honours degree, she was also named Walsall College’s 2022 Higher Education Student of the Year.

“These last four years have been some of the most unpredictable and exciting of my life from a student and career perspective,” said Sindy.  “When I step back and reflect on it all, it’s sometimes feels hard to believe just how far I’ve come.

“There’s so much I’ve been able to take from my higher education experience; the friendships I’ve made, the different ways I’ve been able to get creative and a growing self-confidence to name a few.”

A growing interest in photography sparked Sindy’s desire to return to education after a 30-year break.  However, it was becoming redundant from her job in retail that spurred her to pursue her ambition.  Witnessing how passionate her son, Guy was about the photography courses he studied at the college also helped.

Having found her creative niche at college, Sindy was soon putting herself forward for other industry-related photography opportunities made available to college students.

When Walsall NHS Trust’s communications department asked if someone could volunteer to take photographs from them to use in their marketing materials, Sindy jumped at the chance.  She has since provided them with images for the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as well as other departments to use.

This was followed by VIP portrait commissions for the Lord Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Paul Bott and successor, Councillor Rose Burley.

These experiences helped to pave the way towards her becoming a freelance commercial photographer in a range of areas.  She is currently producing a Celtic warrior costume for an upcoming shoot.  After this, she has some product and jewellery-based shoots scheduled.

“My advice now to anyone thinking about further and higher education is to go for it.

Don’t listen to the inner demons, just follow your dreams,” Sindy added.

“My student journey has been one of the best experiences of my life.”